monthly restart

Microsoft is changing the Windows 11 update process to consolidate various updates into a single monthly restart, starting with updates released on or after July 28, 2026. This new system combines driver updates, .NET updates, and firmware updates with the monthly security update, allowing for one restart per month instead of multiple. Updates requiring a restart will wait until the scheduled monthly security update, which is typically released on the second Tuesday of each month. Users can find combined updates under Settings > Windows Update > Available updates and can choose to restart sooner if desired. Additionally, users can pause updates for up to 35 days through Settings > Windows Update.