- To upgrade to Windows 11 25H2, download and launch the “Installation Assistant,” click the “Accent and install” button, and click the “Restart” button.
- The tool is expected to be updated to upgrade devices to version 25H2 in October 2025.
Microsoft offers the Installation Assistant to upgrade a computer from Windows 11 version 24H2, 23H2, or 22H2 to version 25H2 (2025 Update). In this guide, I will show you how to use the tool to force the installation of the latest release.
Although the recommended method is through “Windows Update” in the Settings app, the feature update may not appear immediately, or the download may fail or become stuck. In these cases, the Installation Assistant becomes the best alternative.
The tool is designed to upgrade devices to the latest release of Windows 11 when the update isn’t available through Settings or when other unknown issues prevent the installation, as long as the device meets the hardware and software requirements. You can also use it intentionally to skip the wait and install the Windows 11 2025 Update right away. The tool is compatible with computers already running Windows 11 and with supported Windows 10 devices.
Before proceeding, be warned that this tool will perform a complete reinstallation of the operating system regardless of the version currently installed on your computer. It’s not an issue when upgrading from version 23H2 and older releases, but it’s not necessary to use this tool if your computer is already running Windows 11 24H2, as this version requires only an enablement package.
Installation Assistant for Windows 11 25H2
To force Windows 11 25H2 on your computer with the Installation Assistant after the feature update becomes available, follow these steps:
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Click the “Download Now” button from the “Windows 11 Installation Assistant” section on the Microsoft software support download page.
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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 installation.
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Once the tool confirms that the hardware and software configurations are compatible, the Windows 11 25H2 files will be downloaded to the computer.
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Click the Restart button to complete applying the installation.
The Installation Assistant should take less than an hour to complete the process, regardless of the device.
It’s never recommended to upgrade a device during the early days of the rollout or when the computer isn’t receiving the update automatically through the “Windows Update” settings, as this may indicate that the hardware isn’t fully compatible. However, if it has been some time since the update was available and the device is still running an older version, you can use the tool to upgrade manually.
Additionally, before proceeding, refer to this guide to minimize problems and errors during the upgrade process. In addition, while the tool offers a non-destructive installation process, creating a full backup before making system changes is highly recommended.
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].