- Microsoft released Windows 10 22H2 on October 18, 2022.
- The new version is available for versions 21H2, 21H1, and 20H2 through an enablement package.
- Older versions of Windows 10 can upgrade to version 22H2 using reinstallation.
Windows 10 22H2 (2022 Update) is available starting October 18 as a free update for compatible devices. This is the 13th feature update that only introduces small improvements since the operating system is now in maintenance mode until the end of support.
Since version 22H2 is based on the same core system files available on versions 21H2, 21H1, and 20H2, computers running the last three versions will receive the new update as a small enablement package without reinstallation. However, it won’t happen automatically because this is an optional update you must trigger manually from Windows Update.
On the other hand, if the device is running a version nearing the end of service (such as version 20H2), then Windows 10 will eventually download and install the new version automatically.
Windows 10 22H2 upgrade starting October 18
Starting on October 18, 2022, you can upgrade manually to the Windows 10 22H2 from the “Windows Update” settings page, clicking the “Stay on Windows 10 for now” option (if the device is compatible with Windows 11), and clicking the “Download and install” option. After the package downloads, the device will restart to complete the installation. The entire upgrade process should not take more than ten minutes. If the installation option is missing, the new version is still incompatible with your computer’s hardware configuration.
If you have a very old version of Windows, you can still upgrade to version 22H2 through Windows Update. However, it may take some time before the update becomes available since Microsoft is initially only updating versions 21H2, 21H1, and 20H2. Also, remember that upgrading from version 1909 or older will require reinstallation.
Update Assistant and Media Creation Tool
You can always download Windows 10 22H2 manually using the Update Assistant to force the upgrade. In addition, it’s also possible to use the Media Creation Tool to perform an in-place upgrade without losing your files. However, using either of these tools will require reinstalling, which is unnecessary if your current setup isn’t experiencing any issues.
Alternatively, it’s possible to upgrade with a clean install of version 22H2, which can help to improve system performance and fix existing problems. Also, you can download the ISO file with version 22H2 to perform an in-place upgrade or clean install from USB.
What’s new on Windows 10 22H2
Windows 10 22H2 is a small update that doesn’t introduce any significant changes or new features, as the company is only maintaining the operating system for those devices that do not meet the requirements to upgrade to Windows 11. Instead, this update will only bump the version number to build 19045.xxxx, push a bunch of fixes and update some existing features for businesses.
You can start downloading the new semi-annual feature update on October 18, 2022. If you are not ready for the new version, Windows 10 won’t automatically install the new version unless your setup is getting close to the end of service.
Finally, the Home and Pro editions of version 22H2 are expected to receive 18 months of support, and the Enterprise and Education editions will receive 30 months of support beginning October 18, 2022.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].