Microsoft will soon release the 2025 Update for Windows 11 (version 25H2), the fourth major update to the desktop version of the operating system. While not as large an upgrade as the previous version (24H2), it’s still an important update you shouldn’t miss.
I’ve put together 10 things you should know about Windows 11 version 25H2 before you decide to upgrade. I’ll walk you through each one, covering what’s new and what you can expect.
Facts you may not know about Windows 11 version 25H2
These are some of the facts regarding the new feature update for Windows 11.
1: Same operating systems
Even though Microsoft is presenting Windows 11 version 25H2 as a new update, it’s essentially the same as version 24H2 at its core. Both versions function identically beneath the surface.
2: Same feature set
Because the two operating systems are essentially the same, they receive the same updates and improvements. That’s why the company can roll out the same changes to both the Dev and Beta versions.
You might have noticed that preview versions 25H2 and 24H2, despite having different build numbers, often share the same KB number. This is because these two operating system versions are essentially the same.
The company plans to keep making the same updates and improvements for both operating systems for the near future. However, the first release of the Windows 11 2025 Update won’t include any major new features or enhancements.
3: Enablement Package
Microsoft is releasing version 25H2 as a small update package – similar to a regular monthly update – but it will only be available for devices that already have version 24H2 installed. This means you won’t need to reinstall the operating system to get it.
An Enablement Package is a small update that activates improvements you’ve already downloaded but aren’t yet being used by your operating system. It also updates the operating system’s version number from 24H2 to 25H2.
You won’t be automatically updated to this new version right away. It’s available now as an optional download. However, when support for version 24H2 ends, the update might be installed automatically on your compatible devices.
As a researcher, I’ve found that if you’re eager to try the latest version before its official release, you have a couple of options. You can join the Release Preview Channel of the Windows Insider Program, or you can download and install the software directly using an ISO file.
4: Full reinstallation upgrade
If you’re using Windows 11 version 23H2 or an earlier version, upgrading to 25H2 will involve a fresh installation of the operating system.
If you’re currently running version 23H2 and update through Windows Update, you’ll be upgraded to version 24H2. Then, after that installation is complete, you’ll be able to download and install version 25H2.
5: Upgrade from Windows 10
Just like updating from the 23H2 version, if you’re using Windows 10, you’ll need to update to version 24H2 first. Only then will you see the option to install version 25H2 when you check for updates in Windows Update settings.
6: Direct upgrade from older version
To upgrade to version 25H2 from Windows 10 or any version of Windows 11 (including 22H2 and 23H2), you can use the Installation Assistant tool or download the official 25H2 ISO file.
7: Upgrade tools to version 24H2
While upgrading from Windows 24H2 to 25H2 usually doesn’t need a fresh install, using the Installation Assistant or downloading the official ISO file will actually reinstall the entire operating system.
8: Reasons to upgrade to version 25H2
If you’re unsure whether to upgrade, even though the operating systems seem the same, the biggest benefit is continued support.
Windows 11 version 24H2 will stop receiving updates on October 13, 2026, but upgrading to version 25H2 will extend support until October 2027.
Typically, Windows 11 Home and Pro versions receive support for two years. However, businesses and organizations can continue using the same version for three years.
We suggest updating to the newest version, but it’s not urgent. You have some time to wait, but please install version 25H2 before the older version, 24H2, is no longer supported.
9: Same hardware requirements
The upcoming Windows 11 25H2 update won’t change what kind of computer you need to run it. You’ll still need a computer with TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and a compatible processor.
These are the minimum requirements to upgrade to Windows 11:
- CPU: 1GHz or faster or System on a Chip (SoC) with two cores minimum.
- RAM: 4GB.
- Storage: 64GB or larger.
- Firmware: UEFI with Secure Boot capable.
- TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
- Graphics: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver.
- Display resolution: High definition (720p) display greater than 9-inch diagonally, 8 bits per color channel.
This means if your device can already run 24H2, it can run 25H2 without issue.
10: Rollout strategy will be gradual
Even though the update is relatively small, Microsoft usually releases new features in stages. This means the 25H2 update won’t appear for everyone right away in Windows Update, and it may take several weeks for it to become available to all users.
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2025-09-24 00:42