Microsoft has officially entered the final rollout phase for the much-anticipated Windows 11 24H2 update, a significant milestone following its initial debut several months ago. As noted in a May 2nd status update on their support page, this major update is now being automatically deployed to consumers.
Automatic Updates for Home and Pro Users
Specifically, users operating on Windows 11 Home or Pro versions 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2—provided their systems are not managed by an IT department—will find the 24H2 update downloading automatically. The only exception arises if a safeguard hold has been placed on a device, typically due to known software or hardware issues that could interfere with the update process.
Traditionally, Windows 11 required users to either search for the update manually through Windows Update or have their systems set to auto-update. However, with this latest shift, the 24H2 update will be delivered seamlessly, even if users have not actively sought it out or have opted against it. This move aligns with Microsoft’s strategy to make the Windows 11 24H2 update mandatory for eligible devices.
“Windows 11, version 24H2, also known as the Windows 11 2024 Update, is broadly available. We have reached the last phase of the gradual rollout for version 24H2 via Windows Update on Settings.”
“Devices running Home and Pro editions of Windows 11, versions 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2 that are not managed by IT departments will receive the update to version 24H2 automatically. You can choose the time to restart your device or postpone the update.”
Users affected by this update will receive notifications via Windows Update when the 24H2 update is being downloaded and is ready for installation. While users can postpone the upgrade, they cannot decline it entirely, allowing them to select a convenient time for the update to be applied. However, the specifics regarding how frequently and for how long users can delay the update remain unclear.
Further reading: Microsoft quietly raised 24H2’s CPU requirements
This information was originally published in our sister publication PC-WELT and has been translated and localized from German.
