Microsoft has begun automatically rolling out Windows 11 25H2 to unmanaged Home and Pro devices running Windows 11 24H2, according to notices posted on the Windows release health pages for both versions. The update is linked to the end of support for Windows 11 24H2, which is set for October 13, 2026.
In the 24H2 release health notice, Microsoft states: “Devices running Home and Pro editions of Windows 11, version 24H2 that are not managed by IT departments will receive the Windows 11, version 25H2 update automatically. You can choose when to restart your device or postpone the update.”
Why Microsoft Is Forcing the 25H2 Upgrade
Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, time zone updates, or technical support after October 13, 2026. Microsoft says the automatic upgrade push aims to keep unmanaged consumer devices on a supported version before that date.
Devices managed by IT departments are not affected by the automatic upgrade, and configurations managed through organizational policies in enterprise or education settings are also excluded from the rollout.
How the 25H2 Rollout Works on Home and Pro
Microsoft is rolling out the 25H2 update to compatible devices using its machine learning-powered intelligent deployment system. The company has stated that no action is needed from users, and devices will automatically receive the update when the system determines they are ready.
Users can manually check for the update by going to Settings, then Windows Update, and clicking on Check for updates. If a device is eligible, an option to download and install Windows 11 25H2 will appear. After the update downloads, users can delay the restart, but on unmanaged Home and Pro systems, they cannot block the upgrade indefinitely.
What to Do if You Want to Delay the Windows 11 25H2 Upgrade
Users who want to delay the upgrade can use the postpone option available at restart. Microsoft has not set a limit on how long the upgrade can be postponed before it is applied automatically. Devices managed through organizational IT policies are not affected and will follow the update schedule set by the administrator.
Microsoft has not announced any way for unmanaged Home or Pro users to permanently opt out of the 25H2 upgrade.
