Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 11 Home and Pro editions, version 24H2, will conclude on October 13, 2026. After this date, devices running these versions will no longer receive monthly security updates or non-security preview releases, increasing their vulnerability to emerging threats.
This end-of-support deadline affects Windows 11 Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Pro for Workstations editions operating on version 24H2. Released on October 1, 2024, this version has been under Microsoft’s standard 24-month servicing period. The cessation of support means that systems remaining on this version will not receive patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities, potentially exposing them to risks such as remote code execution and privilege escalation attacks.
To maintain system security and functionality, Microsoft advises users to upgrade to Windows 11 version 25H2, which will continue to receive support until October 12, 2027. This newer version offers an additional year of security and quality updates, ensuring ongoing protection against potential threats.
It’s important to note that this support timeline differs for Windows 11 Enterprise and Education editions. Devices running these editions on version 24H2 will continue to receive support until October 12, 2027, reflecting the extended 36-month servicing period allocated for these versions. Therefore, organizations should accurately assess their device inventories to determine which systems require immediate attention.
Administrators can identify devices running Windows 11 version 24H2 by checking the OS build number, which falls within the 26100 build family. In contrast, Windows 11 version 25H2 corresponds to the 26200 build family. Ensuring compatibility with critical business applications, device drivers, and security tools is essential before proceeding with the upgrade to version 25H2.
Additionally, Microsoft has reminded users that Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 will reach the end of extended support on October 13, 2026. Organizations are encouraged to migrate these systems to the latest Long-Term Servicing Channel release, Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024, to maintain security and functionality.
With the October 2026 deadline approaching, it’s imperative for users and organizations to plan and execute their upgrade strategies promptly. Transitioning to supported versions of Windows 11 will ensure continued access to essential security updates and reduce the risk of exposure to unpatched vulnerabilities.
