- Microsoft has ended support for Windows 11 Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Pro for Workstations running version 24H2.
- Affected devices will no longer receive monthly security updates, bug fixes, or technical support.
- If you’re still running this version, you should upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 or version 26H2 to continue receiving updates.
Microsoft has ended support for Windows 11 24H2 (build 26100) on October 13, 2026. The end-of-support deadline applies to the Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Pro for Workstations editions. However, Windows 11 Enterprise and Education will continue receiving updates until October 12, 2027.
After this date, you can continue using version 24H2, but Microsoft will no longer provide monthly security updates, new features, or technical support for the affected editions. Continuing to use an unsupported release also increases the risk of security vulnerabilities and compatibility problems as software and hardware manufacturers move on to newer versions.
Windows 11 24H2 became available in October 2024, introducing new features, AI capabilities, and other changes. Since its release, the company has delivered numerous updates to fix bugs, improve reliability, and refine the operating system.
The best course of action is to upgrade to a supported version of Windows 11. The Windows 11 2026 Update (version 26H2) is now available, while version 25H2 remains an option for compatible devices.
To check whether a newer version is available for your computer, open Settings > Windows Update and click the “Check for updates” button. If the upgrade is offered, click the “Download and install” option to begin the process.
You can also use the Windows 11 26H2 Installation Assistant or the Media Creation Tool to upgrade manually. An in-place upgrade can preserve your personal files, applications, and settings, while a clean installation provides a fresh start. Before proceeding, back up your important files and verify that your computer meets the requirements for the target release.
Keep in mind that Windows Update may not offer a feature update immediately if Microsoft has placed a compatibility safeguard on your device. If a known issue blocks an upgrade, wait for the company to resolve it rather than forcing the installation.
Windows 11 25H2 and 26H2 offer newer supported versions of the operating system. Upgrading lets you keep receiving security fixes and other servicing improvements instead of staying on an unsupported release.
Office LTSC 2021 also reaches end of support
Microsoft is also ending support for Office LTSC 2021 on October 13, 2026. After this date, the company will no longer provide technical support, bug fixes, or security updates, which could increase security risks and create compliance concerns for organizations that continue using it.
Organizations should begin planning their transition to Microsoft 365 Apps. Businesses that need to keep their Office applications on-premises can upgrade to Office LTSC 2024, the latest supported long-term servicing release for commercial customers.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech in 2010. With over 23 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].
