Microsoft has warned that Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions will reach end of support in October 2026. After the deadline, compatible devices will stop receiving monthly security updates, bug fixes, and non-security preview updates.
“On October 13, 2026, updates will end for Windows 11 version 24H2 Home and Pro editions, and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016,” Microsoft warns in a Message Center update.
“After this date, devices running these editions will no longer receive monthly security and non-security preview updates that include protection from the latest security threats.”
According to Microsoft’s Windows lifecycle documentation, Windows 11 24H2 Enterprise and Education editions will remain in mainstream support until October 2027.
Microsoft recommends that customers upgrade eligible systems to Windows 11 25H2, also known as the Windows 11 2025 Update. The release is delivered as a minor feature update through an enablement package for devices that already have the required updates installed.
Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro devices that are not managed by an organization may be upgraded automatically to Windows 11 25H2 as the end-of-support date approaches. Users can still choose when their device restarts or temporarily pause updates.
To check whether Windows 11 25H2 is available, open Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates. If the device is eligible, Windows Update will display an option to download and install Windows 11 version 25H2.
For additional information about Windows servicing dates, visit Microsoft’s Lifecycle Policy Search Tool or the Windows Lifecycle FAQ. Microsoft also maintains a list of products that reached or will reach end of support in 2026 on its end-of-support website.
Microsoft ended security updates for Windows 11 23H2 Home and Pro editions in November 2025. The company also extended the consumer Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program by one year, allowing eligible users to receive security updates until October 2026.
The end of mainstream support for Windows Server 2022 is also approaching in October 2026. After that date, the product will enter extended support and continue receiving security updates until October 14, 2031.
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Source: www.bleepingcomputer.com