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

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

If your computer is already running Windows 11 24H2, you can upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 without reinstalling the operating system, losing files, or creating installation media.

Windows 11 25H2, also known as the 2025 Update, is delivered as a lightweight enablement package rather than a traditional feature update. Since versions 24H2 and 25H2 share the same servicing platform and system files, upgrading only requires installing a small update and restarting your computer.

Microsoft began the public rollout of Windows 11 25H2 on September 30, 2025. The primary benefit of upgrading is extended support. Consumer editions receive 24 additional months of updates, while commercial editions receive 36 months.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to upgrade from Windows 11 24H2 to 25H2 using Windows Update or by manually installing the official Enablement Package (KB5054156), which is the fastest and most reliable method.

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

Alternatively, you can always 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 complete reinstallation of the operating system, which is not necessary on devices running version 24H2.

FAQs about upgrading to Windows 11 25H2

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

What’s new in Windows 11 25H2?

Windows 11 25H2 does not introduce major new features. It is delivered as an enablement package on top of version 24H2 and focuses on stability, security improvements, and extending the support lifecycle.

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 the Enablement Package (KB5054156) to “activate” version 25H2, which requires 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 reinstalling using 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.

Is the Windows 11 25H2 enablement package safe to install?

Yes. The enablement package is an official Microsoft update delivered through Windows Update and Microsoft Update Catalog servers. It does not modify user data or reinstall Windows, and it can be uninstalled to roll back to 24H2 if needed.

Update January 12, 2026: This guide has been updated to ensure accuracy and reflect changes to the process.