Microsoft Unveils Windows 11 Version 25H2 in Release Preview Channel
Microsoft has introduced the latest iteration of its operating system, Windows 11 version 25H2 (Build 26200.5074), now available in the Release Preview Channel. This release offers a glimpse into the enhancements users can expect before the broader rollout later this year.
In a departure from previous updates, Microsoft has chosen to focus primarily on security enhancements rather than significant under-the-hood changes or visual overhauls. Notably, the update sees the removal of certain features, including PowerShell 2.0 and the Windows Management Instrumentation command-line (WMIC), both of which had been flagged as vulnerable to security exploits and were previously deprecated.
For IT administrators, the update brings added flexibility, allowing the removal of pre-installed Microsoft default applications through Group Policy or MDM CSP on Enterprise and Education devices. This capability aligns with the growing emphasis on security and customization in enterprise environments.
One intriguing aspect of the 25H2 update is its delivery method, which utilizes an enablement package, or eKB. Unlike a traditional complete OS replacement, this approach acts as a light switch that activates feature code already embedded in machines running the previous version, 24H2. Microsoft strategically stages new features within regular cumulative updates, keeping them in a disabled state until the eKB is installed. Once implemented, a simple restart is all that is required to activate the new features, ensuring minimal downtime for users.
Since 24H2 and 25H2 share the same servicing branch, they benefit from a unified codebase and servicing pipeline. This design allows for annual feature updates to be delivered with the same efficiency and reliability as the monthly updates users have come to expect. The streamlined process not only reduces package size and installation time but also makes transitioning from 24H2 to 25H2 as straightforward as rebooting the device.
Moreover, the update resets support timelines for affected editions. For instance, Enterprise and Education editions will now follow a 36-month support cycle, while Pro editions will adhere to a 24-month cycle. This structured approach ensures that feature rollouts remain controlled and reversible until the eKB is enabled, providing organizations with the flexibility they need to manage their systems effectively.
