How to force upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 from version 24H2

To force upgrade Windows 11 24H2 to version 25H2, download the update through Windows Update.
Alternatively, you can upgrade by manually installing the Enablement Package (KB5054156).

If you already have a computer running Windows 11 24H2, you can quickly upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 (2025 Update) without reinstallation through the Windows Update settings or manually installing the required Enablement Package (KB5054156), and in this guide, I’ll show you how.

Microsoft officially began the gradual rollout of the annual feature update for Windows 11 on September 30, 2025, and since both versions 25H2 and 24H2 share the same file system, you only need to install a small update to switch versions.

Alternatively, you can download the preview ISO file to create a bootable USB and perform a clean installation of the operating system. Or you can use the Installation Assistant tool to perform an in-place upgrade. However, these methods will trigger a reinstallation of the operating system, which is not necessary on devices running version 24H2.

In this guide, I’ll outline the ways to upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 from version 24H2 to renew the support for another 24 months if you’re a regular consumer. If you’re a commercial customer, the support will last 36 months.

Upgrade Windows 11 24H2 to version 25H2 using Windows Update
Upgrade Windows 11 24H2 to version 25H2 using Enablement Package

Important: It’s recommended to create a full backup of your computer in case you need to roll back in the event of an issue. You have been warned.

Upgrade Windows 11 24H2 to version 25H2 using Windows Update

To upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 manually from Windows Update, follow these steps:

Open Settings on Windows 11.
Click on Windows Update.
Click the “Check for updates” button.
Turn on the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” toggle switch.
Click the “Download & install” button for the “Windows 11, version 25H2 is available” option.
Click the Restart now button.

After you complete the steps, the setup will upgrade the system to version 25H2.

Upgrade Windows 11 24H2 to version 25H2 using Enablement Package

To force the upgrade from version 24H2 to 25H2 manually with the official KB5054156 enablement package (eKB), follow these steps:

Open Settings.
Click on Windows Update.
Click the Check for updates button.
Click the Restart now button to apply the most recent updates.
Click to download the eKB (KB5054156) for Intel and AMD (or this link for ARM64).
Save the enablement package on your computer from the Microsoft delivery servers.
Double-click the “.msu” file to launch the installer.
Click the Yes button to apply the upgrade.
Click the Restart now button.

Once you complete the steps, the device will upgrade automatically to Windows 11 25H2 (2025 Update).

The steps are the same as those in the upgrade process for unsupported hardware, as shown in the video tutorial above.

FAQs about upgrading to Windows 11 25H2

Here’s a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers regarding the installation of this new version of the operating system.

What’s new in Windows 11 25H2?

Windows 11 25H2 is delivered as an enablement package on top of 24H2 (same base platform), so there are no major new features unique to 25H2.

Can I upgrade from Windows 11 24H2 to 25H2 without reinstalling or losing data?

Yes. If your computer is already on version 24H2, you can install an Enablement Package (KB5054156) to “activate” version 25H2, requiring only a reboot. Your apps, settings, and files should stay intact.

What if I’m still on a version 23H2 or older release?

You won’t be able to use the lightweight enablement method. Instead, you’ll need to follow the full feature update process, which requires reinstallation through the Windows Update settings, an ISO file, or the Installation Assistant.

When and how is Windows 11 25H2 rolling out?

The public rollout began on September 30, 2025. However, Microsoft is releasing it in stages. If you don’t see it yet, you can turn on “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” and check for updates or manually trigger the upgrade with the Enablement Package.

Does Windows 11 25H2 improve performance?

Not noticeably. Benchmarks show no measurable performance gains over 24H2. The emphasis is on stability, security, and long-term support.

Are there any known issues or compatibility risks?

Yes. Microsoft maintains a Windows Release Health page listing known issues.

Can I roll back from Windows 11 25H2 if there’s trouble?

Yes, you can revert to your previous version (24H2) by uninstalling the Enablement Package.

Do system requirements change on Windows 11 25H2?

No. The hardware requirements remain the same. 25H2 uses the same underlying platform and servicing branch as 24H2.