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Windows 11 Upgrade from Windows 10

As of January 2025, Microsoft has expanded the availability of Windows 11 version 24H2 to eligible Windows 10 users, marking a significant milestone in the rollout of the new operating system.

Eligibility and Rollout

• Windows 10 users running version 22H2 can now update to Windows 11 version 24H2 by navigating to Settings > Windows Update and clicking Check for updates12.
• The update is being phased out to larger groups of users globally, with devices already on Windows 11 versions 22H2 and 23H2 automatically receiving the 24H2 update if they are not managed by IT departments12.

System Requirements

• To be eligible for the upgrade, devices must meet Microsoft’s minimum hardware specifications, including a 1 GHz or faster processor with at least two cores (64-bit compatible), 4 GB or more of RAM, 64 GB minimum available storage, Secure Boot with UEFI firmware, and Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 enabled1.

Optional Upgrade

• Microsoft has reiterated that upgrading to Windows 11 remains optional for eligible Windows 10 users. Those who prefer to stay on Windows 10 can continue to receive updates until Microsoft's support for Windows 10 ends in October 20251.

Windows 11 24H2 Features Overview

Windows 11 version 24H2 introduces several new features and improvements:

Performance and Stability

• The update includes OS-wide performance optimizations and stability improvements, addressing some of the longstanding criticisms of earlier Windows 11 releases1.

Known Issues and Blocks

• Despite the improvements, there are some known issues such as audio glitches, Auto HDR problems, and incompatibilities with certain ASUS motherboards and Ubisoft software. These issues may prevent some devices from updating smoothly12.

Future Features

• Microsoft is actively testing AI and Copilot features among Insiders, which are expected to reach the stable channel in future updates. Additionally, new features are planned for February, including updates to File Explorer, Magnifier, and update settings4.

Windows Security Enhancements 2024

Microsoft has been actively addressing security vulnerabilities and enhancing security features throughout 2024:

Patch Tuesday Updates

• Recent Patch Tuesday updates have included significant security patches for Windows, Office, and other Microsoft products. For example:
  • December 2024's Patch Tuesday included 74 updates, with one zero-day fix for Windows3.
  • November 2024's update addressed 89 vulnerabilities, including three zero-day vulnerabilities in Windows3.
  • October 2024's update fixed 117 flaws, including five zero-day vulnerabilities3.

Ongoing Security Efforts

• Microsoft continues to prioritize security, with a focus on patching zero-day vulnerabilities and other critical issues. The company has also emphasized the importance of keeping systems updated with the latest security patches3.

Privacy and AI-Driven Security

• Microsoft is on a mission to make Windows 11 the most trusted AI-driven operating system, with a focus on redefining privacy and security standards. This includes ongoing efforts to enhance security features and protect user data4.

In summary, the upgrade to Windows 11 version 24H2 offers significant improvements in performance, stability, and security, while also providing users with the flexibility to choose whether to upgrade from Windows 10. Microsoft's ongoing security efforts ensure that both Windows 10 and Windows 11 remain secure and up-to-date.