Windows 11 24H2 has emerged as a commendable update, particularly when compared to its predecessors, Windows 11 22H2 and the original release. Notably, this version boasts enhanced stability, positioning it as the most reliable iteration of Windows 11 to date. However, users may encounter significant challenges, particularly a bug that prevents new cumulative updates from installing if they opted for an updated ISO during the installation of Windows 11 24H2.
The root of the issue lies in the installation method. According to Microsoft’s documentation, utilizing a USB drive or other media to install Windows 11 24H2 with the October or November 2024 security updates can inadvertently disrupt Windows Update. By default, the initial release of Windows 11 24H2 does not include these security patches, leading to potential complications for those who attempt to integrate them into their installation media.
Installation Challenges with Windows 11 24H2
The installation process for Windows 11 24H2 can become problematic, especially when using third-party tools to create a custom installation. Users may face conflicts with Windows Update under the following circumstances:
- Utilizing DISM or similar third-party applications to create an ISO image that includes newer updates.
- Employing tools like Rufus to modify the installation media.
- Mounting Windows 11 and integrating October or November 2024 updates into the ISO prior to installation.
For those who have altered their installation media or used third-party methods to update Windows, the result is often a frustrating scenario where Windows Update becomes inoperative, preventing the installation of subsequent updates, such as those scheduled for December. This predicament may explain the reports of failed installations for the December 2024 updates across various PCs.
It is important to note that Microsoft does not provide additional Windows 11 24H2 ISO files with integrated newer updates. Instead, users are left to create these ISOs manually. The Media Creation Tool continues to offer the original version of Windows 11 24H2, which was released on October 1.
If you have customized your installation media by incorporating newer security patches, you may find yourself unable to apply any new updates. Microsoft has explicitly stated, “When using media to install Windows 11, version 24H2, the device might remain in a state where it cannot accept further Windows security updates.” This indicates that users could be stuck with a version of Windows 11 24H2 that is unable to receive any future patches.
In a recent communication, Microsoft acknowledged the issue, clarifying that it affects only a small fraction of PCs. This is likely due to the limited number of users who modify ISOs to include the latest updates. For those struggling to install new cumulative updates after setting up Windows 11 24H2, the recommended course of action is to download the Media Creation Tool, create a new media file, and reinstall the operating system. While this solution is labor-intensive, it remains the only viable workaround until Microsoft provides a fix, which the company has promised to address in January when its engineers return to work.
Have you encountered any other issues with Windows 11 24H2? We invite you to share your experiences in the comments below.
Microsoft confirms Windows 11 24H2 installation issues, newer updates fail for some PCs
Windows 11 24H2 has emerged as a commendable update, particularly when compared to its predecessors, Windows 11 22H2 and the original release. Notably, this version boasts enhanced stability, positioning it as the most reliable iteration of Windows 11 to date. However, users may encounter significant challenges, particularly a bug that prevents new cumulative updates from installing if they opted for an updated ISO during the installation of Windows 11 24H2.
The root of the issue lies in the installation method. According to Microsoft’s documentation, utilizing a USB drive or other media to install Windows 11 24H2 with the October or November 2024 security updates can inadvertently disrupt Windows Update. By default, the initial release of Windows 11 24H2 does not include these security patches, leading to potential complications for those who attempt to integrate them into their installation media.
Installation Challenges with Windows 11 24H2
The installation process for Windows 11 24H2 can become problematic, especially when using third-party tools to create a custom installation. Users may face conflicts with Windows Update under the following circumstances:
For those who have altered their installation media or used third-party methods to update Windows, the result is often a frustrating scenario where Windows Update becomes inoperative, preventing the installation of subsequent updates, such as those scheduled for December. This predicament may explain the reports of failed installations for the December 2024 updates across various PCs.
It is important to note that Microsoft does not provide additional Windows 11 24H2 ISO files with integrated newer updates. Instead, users are left to create these ISOs manually. The Media Creation Tool continues to offer the original version of Windows 11 24H2, which was released on October 1.
If you have customized your installation media by incorporating newer security patches, you may find yourself unable to apply any new updates. Microsoft has explicitly stated, “When using media to install Windows 11, version 24H2, the device might remain in a state where it cannot accept further Windows security updates.” This indicates that users could be stuck with a version of Windows 11 24H2 that is unable to receive any future patches.
In a recent communication, Microsoft acknowledged the issue, clarifying that it affects only a small fraction of PCs. This is likely due to the limited number of users who modify ISOs to include the latest updates. For those struggling to install new cumulative updates after setting up Windows 11 24H2, the recommended course of action is to download the Media Creation Tool, create a new media file, and reinstall the operating system. While this solution is labor-intensive, it remains the only viable workaround until Microsoft provides a fix, which the company has promised to address in January when its engineers return to work.
Have you encountered any other issues with Windows 11 24H2? We invite you to share your experiences in the comments below.