Microsoft will force users to switch to Windows 11 25H2 even with outdated operating systems

Microsoft announced a forced update of Windows 11 24H2 to version 25H2

*Key facts*

When it will happenAll PCs with Windows 11 24H2 (Home and Pro editions) will be updatedStarting todayThe automatic launch of an “intelligent” system that uses machine learning to check device readinessEnd of support for version 24H2 on October 21, 2026Microsoft stops providing security updates and feature fixes for this branchEnterprise systems under centralized managementCurrently not included in the programThey are expected to be handled separately if the company decides to include them later
> Important: until Microsoft discloses specific criteria and data used by the algorithm to assess readiness. Users can check for updates themselves via *Settings → Update & Security*, provided their PC meets the system requirements.

Emergency fix for issues with the previous release

At the end of March, Microsoft released update KB5079391, which turned out to be unstable: during installation an error code 0x80073712 (missing or corrupted files) appeared. After acknowledging the issue, the company stopped distributing this package and released an unscheduled replacement – update KB5086672. It fixes installation errors and includes all improvements and features planned for the March release.

What this means for users
1. Continuous relevance – Microsoft aims to keep all devices up to date, so the 25H2 update will be applied automatically.

2. Readiness check – if your PC does not meet the requirements or the system “doesn’t consider” it ready, the update may be postponed until a subsequent release.

3. Update control – if desired, you can always manually trigger a check in Windows settings.

Thus, Microsoft continues to support the stability and security of its products while accelerating the transition to new operating system versions.