Microsoft Windows 11 Upgrade: Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Update
Understanding the Windows 11 2025 Update
Microsoft has announced the availability of the Windows 11 2025 Update (also known as Windows 11, version 25H2), marking a significant milestone in the operating system’s evolution. This latest upgrade brings enhanced security features, artificial intelligence capabilities, and improved user experience to millions of devices worldwide.
As organisations and individual users navigate the digital landscape, the Windows 11 upgrade represents more than just a routine update. After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates from Windows Update, technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10, making the transition to Windows 11 increasingly important for maintaining device security and productivity.
Key Features in the Latest Windows 11 Updates
Windows 11, version 25H2 will be delivered using servicing technology (like that used for the monthly update process), providing a fast and reliable installation experience. The recent November and December 2025 updates have introduced several notable improvements to the platform.
The update, dubbed KB5068861, has a build number 26200.7171 and includes major upgrades to the Start menu and Taskbar, along with a few important bug fixes as well. Additionally, File Explorer now offers a more consistent dark mode experience, whilst users can now turn on Virtual Workspaces in Advanced Settings to enable or disable virtual environments such as Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox.
System Requirements and Compatibility
Before upgrading to Windows 11, users must ensure their devices meet specific hardware requirements. To upgrade or perform a clean installation, your device must have a 64-bit dual-core processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and support for Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 and Secure Boot.
On Windows 11 24H2 and higher, the system also requires CPU instruction support for SSE4.2 and the POPCNT instruction. Otherwise, the system may not boot. These requirements emphasise Microsoft’s commitment to hardware-based security, ensuring devices are protected against modern threats.
How to Get the Windows 11 Upgrade
Microsoft has confirmed that it is allowing everyone to download and install Windows 11 version 25H2 with a toggle, as long as they are supported. To get it, users on supported systems will need to have the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” toggle enabled on their Windows Update settings page.
If Microsoft detects that your device may have an issue, such as an application or driver incompatibility, it may put a safeguard hold in place and not offer the update until that issue is resolved. This measured approach ensures a high-quality experience whilst protecting user systems from potential compatibility problems.
AI-Powered Features for Enhanced Productivity
The Windows 11 upgrade brings exclusive capabilities for devices equipped with Neural Processing Units (NPUs). Copilot+ PCs receive exclusive AI-driven tools, including a new “Agent in Settings” powered by local small language models to automate system configuration. These features represent Microsoft’s strategic direction towards on-device artificial intelligence that operates without cloud dependency.
Looking Ahead: The Significance for Users
The Windows 11 upgrade path represents a critical decision point for both individual users and organisations. With the end of Windows 10 support, maintaining system security requires either upgrading to Windows 11 or purchasing Extended Security Updates. For compatible devices, the upgrade offers improved security, modern features, and continued support from Microsoft, making it an essential consideration for anyone seeking to maintain a secure and productive computing environment in 2025 and beyond.