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Microsoft has rolled out the initial build of this year's annual update for Windows 11, known as 25H2. Now available for Windows insiders, the 2025 version should install and run without too many hiccups, promising a smoother experience compared with the launch of the 24H2 edition.
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In an IT blog post published Friday, Microsoft explained how and why Windows 11 25H2 is supposed to go down easy -- certainly easier than its predecessor.
First, the 25H2 installation package is smaller than for prior versions. With Windows 11 24H2, Microsoft performed an OS swap, completely replacing all the system files, even ones that didn't need updating. That resulted in a larger package that took longer to install. With 25H2, Microsoft is replacing only the files that do need to be updated, so the installation will be leaner and run faster.
Second, Microsoft is applying the same technology used in regular Windows updates to the 25H2 update. Through a process called "feature updates via servicing," the new annual update is designed to install with just a single restart -- one that aims to get you back to Windows quickly and easily.
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Third, Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2 share the same source code. The only difference is that any new features in the 2025 version are simply disabled in the 2024 version. This means that Windows insiders who want to test the new flavor only have to focus on the new features instead of all the apps, devices, and other OS components.
Hopefully, Microsoft learned a few lessons from the debacle of Windows 11 24H2. Almost from the get-go, that edition was plagued by a series of bugs and glitches, one after the other. Updates that tried to fix one set of problems sometimes caused a whole new set.
With all the issues and incompatibilities, the company was forced to block the update for a variety of PCs. Let's keep our fingers crossed that 25H2 will be a much more stable and reliable version, even as Microsoft adds new features.
When might Windows 11 25H2 arrive for everyone?
Following the usual beta testing, Microsoft officially started rolling out Windows 11 24H2 to all users last Oct. 1. With a smoother update process expected this year, it's a safe bet that 25H2 will launch around the same time or sooner.
How to try the new 25H2 build
To try out the new 25H2 build for now, you'll need to be a Windows Insider. Make sure your PC is set up to receive Insider builds. Then just head to Settings, select Windows Update, and allow the latest updates to download and install.
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I ran the 25H2 update on one of my Windows 11 test computers, and the process did indeed go smoothly. The update installed quickly and easily. So far, I haven't run into any problems with the 25H2 environment. That's a good sign. It's also especially critical this year, as Microsoft is due to end support for Windows 11 in October -- meaning no more updates or bug fixes. That puts the onus on Windows 11 to be as pain-free as possible.
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