As anticipation builds for the public release of Windows 11 version 24H2, this year’s significant feature update is just around the corner. For those eager to experience the latest enhancements without delay, a straightforward guide on how to download and install this version is now available.
Update Stages
Similar to previous updates, the rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2 will occur in three distinct stages:
- Stage 1: Currently, the update is accessible through the Release Preview Channel of the Windows Insider Program. This option allows for the quickest access to version 24H2, albeit with certain risks. Despite being on the brink of its official launch, the update remains in preview form, which may present some minor issues.
- Stage 2: At this stage, the update becomes available as an optional update for “seekers”—users who actively check for updates via the Settings app. Initially, this update may only be offered to a limited group of seekers to mitigate potential widespread complications. In a few weeks, it will be available to all users who opt to press the “Check for updates” button in the Windows Update section. This stage also includes the release of official ISO images for those looking to perform clean installations or in-place upgrades.
- Stage 3: The final stage sees the update automatically installed as a mandatory update in the background. This method is the most secure, although it requires considerable patience, as it may take weeks or even months for the update to become broadly accessible.
As of early September 2024, Windows 11 version 24H2 is currently available in the Release Preview Channel, with expectations of entering the second stage by late September or October. For those who prefer not to wait, the following steps outline how to download and install Windows 11 version 24H2 immediately:
Important: It is crucial to back up any important data before installing pre-release software. In fact, backing up data is advisable even when installing publicly available releases, as a precautionary measure.
- Navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program.
- Click on the “Get Started” button and link your Microsoft Account.
- Select the Release Preview Channel, confirm your selection, and restart your computer when prompted.
- Return to Settings > Windows Update and click “Check for updates.” If the update does not appear, revisit the Windows Insider Program section, wait for the app to notify you of a newer build, click “Open Windows Update,” and check for updates again. Additional updates may be required for Windows 11 version 24H2 to become visible.
- Upon checking for updates, a banner stating “Windows 11 version 24H2 is available” should appear. Click “Download and Install.”
Once the update transitions out of the Insider program, the process for obtaining it becomes significantly more straightforward:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update.
- Enable and confirm the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option.
- Click “Check for updates.”
- In the banner indicating “Windows 11 version 24H2 is available,” click “Download and install.”
Alternatively, users can acquire Windows 11 version 24H2 by purchasing a Copilot+ PC, such as the Surface Laptop 7 or the Surface Pro 11. These devices come preinstalled with Windows 11 24H2, while other systems equipped with AMD and Intel processors will receive the new version in the forthcoming weeks. Additionally, these PCs are designed to offer an optimized experience with all the latest features of Windows 11 version 24H2.
