Windows 11 24H2 introduces a range of enhancements designed to streamline the user experience, particularly in the realm of updates. Among these improvements is the innovative concept of “checkpoint cumulative updates,” which aims to minimize the size of monthly update packages. However, perhaps the most intriguing aspect of this update is its potential to enhance the overall performance of your PC. With the arrival of Windows 11 24H2, users will find that the update process is no longer a hindrance to productivity.
The overhaul of the Windows 11 update program has focused on reducing both the size of update packages and the time required for installation. A recent report from Microsoft highlights the efficiency gains achieved in version 24H2, relieving users from the frustration of prolonged update installations.
According to the official documentation, Microsoft has employed a variety of techniques to accelerate the update process. These include:
- Reverse and Forward Differentials: This method allows the system to identify and download only the files that are missing or need repair, rather than the entire update package.
- Caching Parsing Results: By storing previously parsed data, the system can expedite future updates.
- Dynamic RAM Allocation: This technique optimizes memory usage, allowing for a more efficient update process.
| Category | Improvement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Update Improvements | Faster Installation Time | Parallel processing of component manifests and optimized reading of component data. |
| Reduced Restart Time | Improvements in servicing stack reduce system downtime during updates. | |
| Lower CPU Usage | RAM now handles more tasks, and Windows also caches component metadata. | |
| Test 1 – Well-maintained Device | Installation Time | 45.6% faster |
| Restart Time | 39.7% faster | |
| CPU Usage | 15.3% less | |
| Test 2 – Outdated Device (18 months) | Installation Time | 43.6% faster |
| Restart Time | 33.5% faster | |
| CPU Usage | 25% less | |
| Feature Update Improvements | Smaller Downloads | Reduced by approx. 200 MB. |
| Conditional App Downloads | Only apps that are outdated or not installed are downloaded. | |
| Unified Update Platform (UUP) |
The results of comparative tests between Windows 11 22H2 and 24H2 reveal significant advancements. In a test involving a fully updated PC, the March 2024 24H2 update was completed at nearly twice the speed (45.6%), with a 39.7% reduction in restart time. During this process, CPU usage dropped by 15.3%, allowing the system to allocate resources to other tasks.
Even on an older device running version 22H2, the update demonstrated impressive results, completing 43.6% faster and consuming 25% less CPU power, with a 33.5% faster restart.
Microsoft conducted these tests on Azure virtual machines equipped with 8 CPU cores, an SSD, and 16 GB of RAM, ensuring ample resources for optimal performance. Users can anticipate further enhancements with the forthcoming monthly security and feature updates.
Smaller Feature Updates
In addition to the improvements in update efficiency, feature updates will also see a reduction in size. Microsoft has separated store app updates, including Edge, from the core system updates. This strategic move results in a smaller overall footprint, focusing on essential system applications like File Explorer while allowing other apps to update independently via the Microsoft Store.
Previously, Microsoft announced the implementation of checkpoint cumulative updates, which will now be followed by incremental differentials that only add files not included in the previous update. This approach promises a more streamlined and efficient updating experience for users moving forward.