Windows 11 25H2 is here! Microsoft has begun distribution.

Microsoft has officially begun distributing Windows 11 25H2, the annual update for 2025. However, users should not expect any revolutionary innovations. Initially, the update mainly brings changes under the hood.

Windows 11 25H2 officially launches

Windows 11 version 25H2 is now generally available as of today, 30 September 2025. The update is being rolled out gradually and can be downloaded via Windows Settings under ‘Windows Update’. As distribution is happening in waves, the update may not be immediately visible to all users. Users who have enabled the ‘Get the latest updates as soon as they're available’ option will receive the update offer first.

The new annual update follows Microsoft's proven pattern of annual feature updates, which traditionally appear in the autumn. Microsoft established this rhythm with Windows 10 in order to separate major feature updates from monthly security patches.

As confirmed by Microsoft, Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 use a common servicing branch. This means that the first new features for version 25H2 are already integrated into 24H2. This architecture enables Microsoft to distribute updates more efficiently and reduce complexity for developers and IT administrators.

Minimal effort thanks to enablement package

This allowed Microsoft to integrate new features into the operating system months in advance, but leave them disabled for the time being. For users who are already using Windows 11 24H2, the update is now available via a so-called enablement package.

This is a tiny file package of only about 200 kilobytes. The Enablement Package simply changes so-called flags in the existing code of new functions from ‘Disabled’ to ‘Enabled’. After a simple restart of the operating system, the new features are then immediately available.

Few changes, important removals

Windows 11 version 25H2 does not introduce any exclusive new features at launch, as features for version 25H2 will also be made available for 24H2 due to the shared servicing stack. The few changes are limited to security improvements and administrative functions.

According to Microsoft, the initial focus is primarily on under-the-hood adjustments.

Version 25H2 includes significant advances in runtime and build vulnerability detection, coupled with AI-assisted secure coding. We developed version 25H2 to combat and mitigate security threats while adhering to a robust SDL (Security Development Lifecycle) policy and requirements.

However, Microsoft

Version 25H2 removes some outdated features, including PowerShell 2.0 and Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC). This decision could affect power users and IT administrators who still rely on these legacy tools. PowerShell 2.0 dates back to 2009 and has been considered obsolete for years, while WMIC is to be replaced by more modern PowerShell cmdlets.

For commercial customers, the update offers new group policies that make it easier to configure which apps are installed on Windows 11 PCs. In addition, administrators will have the option to uninstall a curated list of Microsoft Store apps.

Extended support cycle

However, one important advantage of Windows 11 25H2 over 24H2 is the extended support cycle. Users who upgrade to version 25H2 will receive security fixes and bug fixes for longer. The duration is 24 months for Home and Pro editions and 36 months for Enterprise and Education editions.

Since version 24H2 was finalised earlier in the year and also only receives updates for 24 months, upgrading to 25H2 means a longer runtime for security features and updates.

Windows 11 25H2 is a pragmatic update with no surprises. Would you like to see more innovation in major Windows updates?