Microsoft no longer wants to let Windows 11 24H2 age until its deadline. The group is starting to automatically switch consumer PCs to Windows 11 25H2 before the expected end of support in October.
Once the end of Windows 11 24H2 support becomes a reality, affected users will lose security patches, known bug fixes, technical support, new features, and even time zone updates. For Microsoft, the subject does not therefore boil down to offering a new version of Windows. This is to prevent a fleet of general public machines from remaining on a version which will no longer receive any follow-up.
Microsoft regains control over unmanaged PCs
The measure currently targets devices that do not belong to an environment controlled by a company manager. In other words, the Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 24H2 installed on personal PCs will automatically receive Windows 11 25H2.
Microsoft states this clearly in its documentation:
Devices running Windows 11 Home and Pro editions, version 24H2, that are not managed by IT departments will automatically receive the Windows 11, version 25H2 update. You can choose when to restart your device or postpone the update.
This leaves a small margin on the schedule, but not on the direction taken. The user can postpone the restart or postpone the installation, but Microsoft is starting the migration to Windows 11 25H2.
A slight transition, but not really optional
The transition from Windows 11 24H2 to 25H2 remains discreet on a technical level. Both versions share the same code base and the transition relies on a simple activation system rather than a heavy overhaul of the system.
In addition, the update should not take long to install, cause any notable changes or even bring up new compatibility problems or new bugs.
Users in a hurry can now launch the update. Simply go to Settings then Windows Update, before clicking on “Check for updates” to see an invitation to install Windows 11 25H2 if the PC is eligible.
This decision comes at an ambiguous moment in Microsoft’s speech. The company recently promised big changes to Windows Update, including the ability to defer updates for as long as desired.
The vagueness begins precisely where the support policy ends. Microsoft has not yet said whether this freedom also extends to maintaining an outdated version.
