Why Microsoft is automatically upgrading certain Windows 11 PCs to version 25H2 and why you shouldn't try to block it

(Image credit: Future)

Windows 11's latest update is here, and your PC will receive it automatically. As is the usual case for versions of Windows, Microsoft has ended support for Windows 11 version 23H2, which initially rolled out in 2023. To help ensure PCs are up to date, Microsoft will push systems to Windows 11 version 25H2.

"As of November 11, 2025, Home and Pro editions of Windows 11, version 23H2 have reached end of servicing," explains Microsoft. "Enterprise and Education editions of version 23H2 will continue to receive monthly security updates until November 10, 2026."

What's new in Windows 11 version 25H2?

Start menu sidebar — The new Start menu that will ship later this year will be available on both Windows 11 version 25H2 and Windows 11 version 24H2. (Image credit: Mauro Huculak)

For everyday users, the most important takeaway is that Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2 have the same feature set.

Features that ship in the future, such as the improved Start menu, will make their way to both of the most recent versions of Windows. An improved gaming experience will ship to both Windows 11 version 25H2 and Windows 11 version 24H2 as well.

If your PC is on Windows 11 version 23H2, you will see new features that debuted with Windows 11 version 24H2 after you upgrade. That was a sizeable update that included both under-the-hood improvements and surface-level features.

FAQ

What is Windows 11 version 25H2?

Windows 11 version 25H2 is the latest version of Windows 11. It's a relatively minor update in that it lacks any unique features.

Rollout of Windows 11 version 25H2 began at the end of September.

Why do I need to update Windows 11?

Since Windows 11 version 25H2 lacks unique features, it's natural to ask why anyone should upgrade to it.

The most important factor is that upgrading to Windows 11 version 25H2 resets the support clock. PCs running Windows 11 version 25H2 will continue to receive security updates and bug fixes for a longer period than systems running Windows 11 24H2 (or any other previous version of Windows).

Consumer and Pro editions of Windows 11 will be supported for 24 months. Enterprise editions will be supported for 36 months.

Will my PC stop working if I don't update it?

No. Your PC will continue to work if left on Windows 11 version 23H2. Microsoft does not brick devices running unsupported versions of Windows 11. However, PCs running Windows 11 version 23H2 will no longer receive security updates.

Can I delay or cancel the Windows 11 update?

Eligible devices will be updated to Windows 11 version 25H2 automatically, as long as those PCs are not managed by an IT department.

You may choose when your PC restarts or postpone the update, but you cannot cancel the update indefinitely.

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Sean Endicott is a news writer and apps editor for Windows Central with 11+ years of experience. A Nottingham Trent journalism graduate, Sean has covered the industry’s arc from the Lumia era to the launch of Windows 11 and generative AI. Having started at Thrifter, he uses his expertise in price tracking to help readers find genuine hardware value.

Beyond tech news, Sean is a UK sports media pioneer. In 2017, he became one of the first to stream via smartphone and is an expert in AP Capture systems. A tech-forward coach, he was named 2024 BAFA Youth Coach of the Year. He is focused on using technology—from AI to Clipchamp—to gain a practical edge.

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