Microsoft has released Windows 11 version 25H2, also known as the 2025 Update. The update uses a phased rollout strategy. This means it becomes available first to devices running Windows 11 version 24H2 that have enabled the “Get the latest updates as soon as they're available” setting in Windows Update. Microsoft employs a machine learning model during deployment to assess device compatibility. If the system detects a potential issue, it withholds the update until the problem resolves.
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Note that Windows 11 version 24H2 and later require processors that support the SSE 4.2 instruction set and the POPCNT instruction. This affects only devices older than 15 years.
Method 1: Download Windows 11 25H2 via Windows Update
- Open Settings and click on Windows Update.
- Enable the option “Get the latest updates as soon as they're available.”
- Click “Check for updates.”
- If eligible, you will see an entry saying “Windows 11, version 25H2 available.” Proceed with the installation.
ℹ️ If the update still does not appear, Microsoft has likely blocked it for your device due to compatibility concerns. The block will lift automatically once the issue is resolved.
Method 2: Use the Media Creation Tool
- Download the official Media Creation Tool for Windows 11 version 25H2 from Microsoft’s website.
- Launch the tool and follow the on-screen instructions to either upgrade your current installation or create installation media.
The Media Creation Tool is Microsoft’s official utility that simplifies Windows installation. It aligns with each major operating system release, and Microsoft updates the tool whenever a new version of Windows becomes available.
Keep in mind that the official tool provides you with official ISO images that have strict hardware requirements. In addition to TPM, Windows 11 now requires a SSE4.2 set in processor. Processors like the AMD Turion II and Intel Core 2 Duo do not feature this instruction set. The installer won't start without them.
Method 3: Download ISO Image for Windows 25H2
Microsoft provides official ISO images of Windows 11 version 25H2 on its website. To get the ISO file, point your web browser to this link:
https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows11
Additional ISO files, including versions that bypass certain hardware requirements such as TPM 2.0 or UEFI Secure Boot, can be manually created with tools like Rufus.
Finally, there are direct ISO file links to official Microsoft's servers. They have become available prior the official announcement. You can pick any desired option from this list.
Closing words
Microsoft has officially released the Windows 11 2025 Update, version 25H2, on September 30, 2025. The update deploys as a small enablement package that activates features already delivered through prior cumulative updates. Versions 24H2 and 25H2 come with a common codebase. Both will receive identical cumulative updates going forward, while new features will continue arriving via monthly updates under Microsoft’s continuous innovation strategy.
The update includes some improvements from the Microsoft Secure Future Initiative, including improved build and runtime vulnerability detection and AI-assisted secure programming. Microsoft developed the release in accordance with the Secure Development Lifecycle to address security threats.
There are no new features for consumers. Exactly nothing.
Legacy components such as PowerShell 2.0 and the WMIC command-line interface have been removed.
Thanks to thecommunity.
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