Windows 11 24H2 End of Support: How to Update to 26H2

Updated October 2026

Quick answer: Windows 11 version 24H2 Home and Pro got their final update on October 13, 2026. To keep getting security updates, update to Windows 11 26H2: go to Settings > Windows Update, click Check for updates, then Download and install when version 26H2 appears. On most PCs it takes a few minutes and one restart.

Also read: Is Windows 10 Still Getting Updates? ESU Extended to 2027

If you bought a Windows 11 laptop in the last two years, there’s a good chance it’s still on version 24H2. Here’s how to check, and how to move to the latest version without losing anything.

What Changed on October 13, 2026?

  • Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro: Final security update on October 13, 2026. No more updates after that.
  • Windows 11 24H2 Enterprise and Education: Still supported until October 12, 2027.
  • Windows 11 26H2: The latest version, released September 29, 2026.

Your PC keeps working after the deadline, but it no longer gets security fixes, which makes it riskier to use online.

Step 1: Check Your Windows 11 Version

  1. Press Windows + R.
  2. Type winver and press Enter.
  3. A small window shows your version, for example Version 24H2.

You can also check in Settings > System > About, under Windows specifications.

If it saysWhat to do
24H2Update to 26H2 (steps below)
25H2You’re still supported, but updating to 26H2 is quick
26H2You’re up to date ✅
23H2 or olderUpdate now (takes longer, see below)
26H1You’re on a newer Arm PC. Nothing to do yet (see FAQ)

Step 2: Update to Windows 11 26H2

  1. Open Settings (press Windows + I).
  2. Click Windows Update.
  3. Turn on Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available.
  4. Click Check for updates.
  5. When Windows 11, version 26H2 appears, click Download and install.
  6. Restart your PC when asked.

That’s it. Run winver again, and it should say Version 26H2.

Tip: Save your open work and back up important files before any big update, just in case.

Why Is the Update So Fast?

Windows 11 24H2, 25H2, and 26H2 all share the same core code. Most of 26H2’s features were already delivered to your PC through monthly updates, and the 26H2 update simply switches them on.

That’s why it’s a tiny download (about 174 KB) that needs only one restart, instead of a full Windows reinstall.

On version 23H2 or older? You’ll get a full upgrade instead, which is about 6.5 GB and takes longer. Plug your laptop into power and leave it to finish.

Windows 11 26H2 Not Showing? Try These Fixes

1. Install all other updates first. Click Check for updates and install everything waiting, restart, then check again.

2. Turn on early updates. Make sure Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available is turned on in Windows Update.

3. Resume updates. If updates are paused, click Resume updates.

4. Free up storage. Go to Settings > System > Storage and make sure you have at least a few GB free.

5. Wait a few days. Microsoft releases updates gradually, so some PCs get them later than others. As 24H2 support ends, Windows can also install the update automatically.

What’s New in Windows 11 26H2?

Because features arrive through monthly updates, 26H2 doesn’t look very different. Highlights include:

  • An AI agent in Settings: describe what you want in plain words, like “turn on dark mode,” and it finds the setting for you.
  • Smarter Windows Search: previews, better handling of typos and partial app names, and automatic indexing of folders you use often.
  • Richer image descriptions in Narrator.
  • Task Manager monitoring for AI workloads.

The main benefit is simple: 26H2 restarts your support clock, so your PC keeps getting security updates for about two more years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Windows 11 24H2 still supported?

Not for Home and Pro editions. Their final update was released on October 13, 2026. Enterprise and Education editions are supported until October 12, 2027.

How do I update from Windows 11 24H2 to 26H2?

Go to Settings > Windows Update, click Check for updates, then Download and install when Windows 11, version 26H2 appears. Restart when asked.

Will I lose my files when updating to 26H2?

No. The update keeps your files, apps, and settings. It’s still smart to back up important files first.

Do I need to install 25H2 before 26H2?

No. PCs on 24H2 can go straight to 26H2.

Does Windows 11 26H2 have new hardware requirements?

No. If your PC already runs Windows 11 24H2 or 25H2, it can run 26H2.

My PC says 26H1. Can I update to 26H2?

Not yet. Version 26H1 is a special release for new Arm PCs, such as Snapdragon X2 laptops, and it uses a different core. Microsoft says these PCs will get an update path to a future version, so you don’t need to do anything right now.

I’m still on Windows 10. What should I do?

If your PC meets the requirements, you can upgrade to Windows 11 26H2 for free through Windows Update. If not, enroll in Extended Security Updates to keep getting security fixes until October 2027.

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