It seems that Microsoft has begun blocking Windows ISO downloads that originate from Rufus. Rufus is an open-source tool that can create bootable media.

The option for downloading Windows ISO images was introduced in Rufus 3.5 version, which the developer launched in the year of 2019. The capability of downloading Windows 8, Windows 10 and Windows 11 ISO images was an excellent addition to the feature, because it made making Windows boot media easier.

It has also added new features to Rufus over time that have enhanced the program for certain Windows admins and customers in a significant way. Alternatives to avoid Windows 11 system requirements during Inplace upgrades , and to set up Local accounts rather than Microsoft accounts, as well as to refuse privacy concerns completely are coming in 2022.

The downloads function is powered by Fido script that is part of Rufus and has been working perfectly since the function was first introduced. The script pulled information about downloads from Microsoft servers, and downloads were supplied by Microsoft.

In the present, Rufus users are receiving errors when trying for downloading Windows 8, 10 or 11 using Rufus.

The present error message is displayed after you have selected an operating system version from the downloader. It reads:

Error: The download of Windows ISOs is not available anymore because of Microsoft having changed their website to block it.

Windows 7 ISO downloads are in operation and function just as before. It’s not clear the reason Microsoft does not block Windows 7 downloads as well.

Microsoft continues to offer Windows ISO image downloads from its own website. Visit Microsoft’s Windows 11 Download page on the Microsoft website continues to supply clients with ISO images upon request.

A link to an article that is on GitHub is provided, where the subject is debated. Based on the data posted on GitHub, Microsoft made a deliberate change to stop downloading from any other source other than its own site.

Fido 1.30 changelog confirms the changes. Fido 1.30 Changelog is a confirmation of the change :

Deleting Windows 8 ? Windows 11 ISO downloads

It seems that Microsoft deliberately created a hostile download server to our script, and attempting to resolve this issue is most likely to be a lengthy duration…

The developer is seeking assistance in finding the solution to this issue. Although it is possible obtain authentic ISO files from Microsoft however, downloads are restricted to certain builds only.

In the case of Rufus and Fido users were able to choose various versions to download. Another benefit was that all the steps were integrated into a single application.

Closing words

We have contacted Microsoft to learn more information about the issue however, we haven’t heard from them so far.