Microsoft has issued a reminder that Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 version 24H2 will reach their end-of-life for updates on October 13, 2026. After this date, devices running these specific editions will no longer receive monthly security or non-security preview updates, leaving them vulnerable to new security threats.
In contrast, the Enterprise and Education editions of Windows 11 24H2 will continue to receive mainstream support until October 2027. This distinction highlights a difference in support timelines based on the edition of the operating system.
Users of the Home and Pro editions are strongly advised to upgrade to Windows 11 version 25H2, also known as the Windows 11 2025 Update. This update became generally available in September 2024 and is delivered as a minor update via an enablement package.
For devices running Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro that are not managed by IT departments, the upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 will occur automatically. However, users retain the option to choose when to restart their systems or postpone the update installation.
To check for the update, eligible Windows 10 or Windows 11 users can navigate to "Settings," then "Windows Update," and select "Check for updates." If the device is ready, an option to "Download and install Windows 11, version 25H2" will be presented.
Microsoft provides additional information on Windows servicing dates through its Lifecycle Policy search tool and the Windows Lifecycle FAQ page. The company also maintains a list on its support website detailing all products scheduled for retirement or end of support in 2025.
This announcement follows previous support changes, including the cessation of security updates for Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 23H2 in November 2025. Additionally, Microsoft quietly extended the free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for consumers by an extra year, until October 2027, in June. Windows Server 2022 is also nearing its mainstream end-of-support date in October 2026, after which it will transition to extended support, providing security updates until October 14, 2031.
