Should I install Windows 11 25H2 on my PC? Yes, but proceed with caution.

• Yes, you should upgrade to Windows 11 25H2, especially if you are on version 24H2, since both are technically the same system, and the update extends support until October 2027.
• However, it’s best to wait a few weeks after release to avoid early bugs and issues.
• Use “Windows Update” for a quick enablement package upgrade instead of forcing installation.

Microsoft is expected to make Windows 11 25H2 broadly available sometime in October 2025, and if you are wondering whether you should install the new version, the short answer is “yes,” but there are a few things to consider. The new version represents the fourth feature update for the operating system based on the same core file system available in version 24H2. However, the update will roll out gradually to ensure a smooth upgrade experience, which means it’ll take time before the new version reaches everyone.

The company typically offers updates to computers with newer hardware, and it continues to expand to more eligible devices. Since this is an optional update, the decision to install it now or wait longer to avoid possible issues is up to you.

This guide will help you determine whether to install or skip the Windows 11 24H2 upgrade on your desktop, laptop, or tablet.

Should I upgrade to Windows 11 25H2?

The best and shortest answer is “Yes.” It’s OK to upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 on devices already running version 24H2. The reason is that both versions (24H2 and 25H2) share the same file system, meaning that they are exactly the same operating system, so there’s no difference between the two versions.

Technically speaking, if you’re experiencing issues on version 25H2, you’ll likely experience the same problems if you roll back to version 24H2.

When upgrading your computer to the newest version, if you use the “Windows Update” settings, the system will download and enable an enablement package that only changes the version number from 24H2 to 25H2 and enables any specific feature if applicable. However, since both versions are identical, Microsoft will continue to make new features and visual changes available for both versions. 

Now, this doesn’t mean that the enablement package may not have its own issues that can negatively affect the overall experience. This could happen, and if it does, you may want to wait a little longer.

Before upgrading, it’s always recommended to ensure that there are no known issues and then proceed with the installation.

Why should I upgrade to Windows 11 25H2?

Since this version doesn’t introduce any new features, you should still upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 to renew your support and continue receiving security and maintenance updates.

This time around, the primary reason to upgrade is that the support cycle for version 24H2 will end on October 13, 2026, and switching to version 25H2 will extend support until October 2027.

Should I wait to install Windows 11 25H2?

Although you should upgrade to version 25H2, it’s best to wait a little while during the early days. It is never a good idea to rush into a new release, as unknown bugs, errors, and compatibility issues are often encountered during the initial rollout, especially when upgrading from an older release other than version 24H2.

When version 25H2 is ready for your device, you will (eventually) receive a notification through the “Windows Update” settings to upgrade manually. If you don’t receive the message, forcing the Windows 11 25H2 upgrade is not recommended, as you will likely encounter issues.

Typically, it’s recommended to wait until Windows 11 25H2 is fully available to install a more stable build, which happens several months after the feature update has been officially released.

You shouldn’t rush to upgrade if your computer is running an older Windows release without any issues. You should wait a little longer. However, you should not skip the update entirely. Eventually, that specific version will be discontinued and will no longer receive maintenance updates, which will lead to other issues and make it vulnerable.

If you’re running version 24H2, you should only proceed with the upgrade through the “Windows Update” settings, since version 25H2 is simply an enablement package that installs quickly as a cumulative update.

If you use the Windows 11 25H2 ISO file, the Installation Assistant, or perform a clean installation, any of these actions will trigger a full reinstallation of the operating system. You should only consider these other methods if you’re coming from version 23H2 or an older release or from Windows 10.