- You can upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 from Windows 11 23H2 using Windows Update, ISO file, Installation Assistant, or the Insider Program.
- Microsoft will end support for Windows 11 23H2 on November 11, 2025.
It’s possible to perform a direct upgrade from Windows 11 23H2 to Windows 11 25H2 (skipping version 24H2), and in this guide, I’ll show you how to complete this process.
On November 11, 2025, Microsoft is ending support for Windows 11 23H2, affecting several versions of the operating system, including Windows 11 Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Pro for Workstations.
Once the support period ends, the company will no longer provide security updates, features, device drivers, or technical support. If you continue using this specific release, the system will eventually upgrade automatically to the next supported version, which in this case will be version 24H2. However, if the device is still running the older version, you can manually upgrade to Windows 11 25H2.
Windows 11 25H2 represents the fourth major update for the operating system, and while this release shares the same file system as version 24H2, if you’re coming from version 23H2, you’ll notice several new features and improvements.
If you have a computer still running the older version of Windows 11, you can upgrade manually in at least three ways using different tools and Windows Update if your hardware configuration meets the requirements.
In this guide, I will teach you three ways to upgrade to the Windows 11 2025 Update.
- Upgrade Windows 11 23H2 to 25H2 using Windows Update
- Upgrade Windows 11 23H2 to 25H2 using ISO file
- Upgrade Windows 11 23H2 to 25H2 using Installation Assistant
- FAQs about upgrading from version 23H2 to Windows 11 25H2
Upgrade Windows 11 23H2 to 25H2 using Windows Update
To upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 from version 23H2 manually using Windows Update, follow these steps:
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Open Settings on Windows 11.
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Click on Windows Update.
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Click the “Check for updates” button.
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Turn on the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” toggle switch.
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Click the “Download & install” button to install Windows 11 25H2.
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Click the Restart now button.
After you complete the steps, the setup will upgrade the system to version 25H2.
Upgrade Windows 11 23H2 to 25H2 using ISO file
To upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 from Windows 11 23H2, follow these steps:
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Select the Windows 11 option under the “Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64” section.
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Click the Confirm button.
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Select the installation language.
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Click the Confirm button.
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Click the Download button to save the Windows 11 25H2 ISO file.
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Right-click the ISO file and select the Mount option.
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Click on the mounted drive from the left navigation pane.
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Double-click the Setup file to begin the Windows 11 25H2 upgrade process.
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(Optional) Click the “Change how Windows Setup downloads updates” option.
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Select the “Not right now” option.
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Click the Next button.
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Click the Accept button to agree to the terms.
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Click the Install button to upgrade from 23H2 to 25H2 while keeping your files and apps.
If you want to start fresh with a clean installation of Windows 11 25H2, click the “Change what to keep” option, select the “Nothing” option, click the “Next” button, and then click the “Install” button.
Once you complete the steps, the Windows 11 2025 Update upgrade will start preserving your settings, apps, and files.
Upgrade Windows 11 23H2 to 25H2 using Installation Assistant
The Installation Assistant makes it easier to force an upgrade to version 25H2 on devices running Windows 11 23H2.
To upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 with the Installation Assistant tool, follow these steps:
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Click the Download Now button under the “Windows 11 Installation Assistant” section.
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Double-click the Windows11InstallationAssistant.exe file to launch the tool.
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Click the “Accept and install” button to begin the upgrade to Windows 11 25H2.
After you complete the steps, the setup will continue with the upgrade to the latest operating system release, in this case, Windows 11 25H2.
FAQs about upgrading from version 23H2 to Windows 11 25H2
Here’s a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers about performing an upgrade to Windows 11 25H2.
Can I upgrade directly from Windows 11 23H2 to version 25H2?
Yes. You can upgrade directly from version 23H2 to 25H2 without installing version 24H2 first. Microsoft allows skipping intermediate updates as long as your system meets the hardware requirements and is running a supported edition of Windows 11.
When will support for Windows 11 23H2 end?
Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 11 23H2 on November 11, 2025. After that date, the device will no longer receive security or driver updates, and Windows Update may automatically move it to the next supported version.
What are the main ways to upgrade to Windows 11 25H2?
You can upgrade using Windows Update, the Installation Assistant, or a Windows 11 25H2 ISO file. Each method allows you to keep your files and applications, though creating a backup before proceeding is always recommended.
Will I lose my files if I upgrade to Windows 11 25H2?
No. Performing an in-place upgrade keeps your personal files, apps, and most settings intact. However, creating a full system backup before upgrading is strongly advised in case something goes wrong.
How long does the Windows 11 25H2 upgrade take?
The upgrade duration depends on your device’s performance and internet speed. On average, it takes 30 to 90 minutes to complete using Windows Update or the Installation Assistant.
What should I do if Windows Update doesn’t show version 25H2?
Make sure the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” toggle is turned on in Windows Update. If you still don’t see it, you can manually upgrade using the Installation Assistant or download the Windows 11 25H2 ISO from the Microsoft website.
Can I perform a clean install instead of upgrading?
Yes. When running the setup from the ISO file, choose “Change what to keep” and select “Nothing” to perform a clean installation of Windows 11 25H2, which erases everything and installs the operating system fresh.
How do I confirm that I’m running Windows 11 25H2 after the upgrade?
Open Settings > System > About, and check the “Version” section under Windows specifications. It should display “25H2” once the upgrade is complete.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech in 2010. With over 22 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
You can follow him on YouTube, Threads, BlueSky, X (Twitter), LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].