Windows 11 24H2 End of Updates on October 13, 2026: What Home and Pro Users Should Do
Share
Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 version 24H2 Home and Pro will stop receiving updates on October 13, 2026. After that date, PCs still on 24H2 will no longer get monthly security updates, bug fixes or technical support. If your PC runs Windows 11 Pro 24H2, here is how to check, what Microsoft will do automatically and how to stay protected.
The Short Answer
- Date: October 13, 2026 is the last day of updates for 24H2 on Home and Pro.
- What to do: update to Windows 11 version 25H2 or the newer 26H2 before that date.
- Cost: the update is free if you already have a licensed Windows 11 PC.
- Enterprise and Education: 24H2 on those editions stays supported until October 2027.
What Happens After October 13?
Your PC will keep working, but a PC stuck on 24H2 stops receiving monthly security and preview updates and known-issue fixes. Over time that leaves it more exposed to new threats, which matters most for Windows 11 Pro machines used for work, remote access or sensitive data.
Will Microsoft Update My PC Automatically?
Microsoft has said that Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro PCs that are not managed by an IT department will be moved to 25H2 automatically. You can still choose when to restart or postpone the update for a while. Do not rely on this: update on your own schedule so you are not surprised by a restart.
If you manage Windows 11 Pro PCs for a business, the automatic move may not apply to you. Use your update policies, such as Windows Update for Business or the Group Policy that sets a target feature update version, to choose the version you want.
How to Check Which Version You Have
- Press Windows key + R, type winver and press Enter.
- Look at the Version line, such as 24H2 or 25H2.
You can also open Settings > System > About and read the Windows specifications.
How to Update From 24H2 to 25H2
- Back up your important files.
- Open Settings > Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates.
- If you see Download and install Windows 11, version 25H2, select it.
- Restart when prompted, and confirm the new version with winver.
For PCs on 24H2, the move to 25H2 is delivered as a small enablement package, so it is usually quick and needs only a restart.
What About Windows 11 26H2?
Microsoft began rolling out Windows 11 version 26H2 at the end of September 2026. It starts a new support cycle, with 24 months of updates for Home and Pro. It may reach your PC after 25H2, so check Windows Update from time to time. See our overview of the Windows 11 2026 update for the headline changes.
For the latest dates, check Microsoft's Windows 11 release information page.
If Your PC Is Not Offered the Update
- Install all pending Windows updates and restart, then check again.
- Make sure your PC meets the Windows 11 requirements, including TPM 2.0 and UEFI Secure Boot.
- Check that your Windows is properly activated under Settings > System > Activation.
- Pause and resume updates, or run the Windows Update troubleshooter.
Running Windows 11 Home? Consider Pro
If you are on Windows 11 Home and want tools such as BitLocker, Remote Desktop hosting and Group Policy, you can upgrade in place without reinstalling. Read our guide on how to upgrade Windows 11 Home to Pro, or get the Windows 11 Home to Pro Upgrade Key. Not sure which edition fits you? See Windows 11 Home vs Pro.
Using Office 2021 Too?
October 13 is also an important date for Office 2021. Read what happens when Office 2021 support ends and what to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my PC stop working on October 13?
No. It keeps running, but 24H2 stops receiving updates, so you should move to a newer version.
Do I need to buy a new Windows license?
No. A licensed Windows 11 PC gets 25H2 and 26H2 as free updates.
Will I lose my files or apps when I update?
No. Feature updates keep your files and apps, but you should still back up first.
Is Windows 11 Pro 24H2 for businesses affected?
Yes for Pro. Enterprise and Education editions of 24H2 have longer support, until October 2027.
Need a Windows 11 license? Browse our Windows 11 license keys.
Dates come from Microsoft's published lifecycle information and can change. Confirm the current dates on Microsoft's website.