Microsoft’s latest feature update, Windows 11 version 24H2 available for existing Windows 11 users as an optional update. It’s a major feature update, delivered by way of an enablement package as we saw with the Update and mainly focuses on performance and security enhancements to improve the operating system’s overall experience. Windows 11 version 24H2 enhances security and connectivity with features like Personal Data Encryption (PDE), App Control for Business, and Local Security Authority (LSA) Protection. It also supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth LE Audio, and Rust in the Windows kernel. Other updates include Windows Protected Print Mode, SHA-3 cryptographic support, SMB protocol improvements, and more. If you’re running Windows 10 you can still download Windows 11 free to get the latest 24H2 features. You can download and Install the Windows 11 2024 update (version 24H2) by heading to Settings > Windows Update, and click on Check for updates. 

  • Windows 11 version 24H2 Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Pro for Workstations editions would be supported until October 2026, 24 months after the release date (01/10/24).
  • Windows 11 version 24H2 Enterprise and Education editions would be supported until October 2027, 36 months after the release date (01/10/24).

Windows 11 24H2 features

Talking about features, the latest Windows 11 2024 update brings several enhancements aimed at improving security, performance, and connectivity. Notable features include Personal Data Encryption (PDE) for protecting important folders, and App Control for Business to safeguard apps and devices. Windows Protected Print Mode now supports Morpia-certified printers without third-party software, while Local Security Authority (LSA) Protection prevents credential theft.

The update also introduces support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth LE Audio, improved Wi-Fi network controls, and the integration of Rust in the Windows kernel. Additionally, it adds SHA-3 cryptographic support, upgrades to the SMB protocol, and new Windows LAPS features like password auto-expiration.

Personal Data Encryption (PDE)

Windows 11 now allows users to protect essential folders like Documents, Desktop, and Pictures using encryption tied to their personal authentication. This adds an extra layer of security for sensitive data.

App Control for Business

Previously known as Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC), App Control for Business is a rebranded feature aimed at protecting your applications, devices, and data from harmful code, ensuring business environments remain secure.

Windows Protected Print Mode

With this update, Windows integrates Morpia certification for printers without needing third-party software. The new protected print mode simplifies the printing process and adds security.

Local Security Authority (LSA) Protection

LSA Protection strengthens system security by safeguarding login credentials and secrets, preventing cyber threats from accessing sensitive information.

Wi-Fi 7 Support

This update introduces support for the next-gen Wi-Fi 7 standard, delivering faster and more reliable wireless connections for users with compatible hardware.

Bluetooth LE Audio Support

Windows 11 now supports Bluetooth LE Audio, enabling high-quality audio streaming to devices like hearing aids and assistive equipment. This improvement is particularly beneficial for accessibility.

Wi-Fi Network Controls

Users can now manage app access to Wi-Fi networks, offering more control over how applications connect to the internet.

Rust in the Windows Kernel

Microsoft has integrated support for the Rust programming language into the Windows kernel, which can help improve system performance and security by reducing memory-related vulnerabilities.

SHA-3 Cryptographic Support

Windows 11 adds support for the SHA-3 hashing algorithm, a cryptographic standard that enhances data integrity and security.

SMB Protocol Enhancements

The 24H2 update brings changes to the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol, improving both performance and security in network file sharing.

Windows LAPS (Local Administrator Password Solution) Improvements

LAPS has received several upgrades, including features like denying the retrieval of local admin passwords until a device is network-connected and setting automatic password expiration for improved security.

Additional Updates
The 24H2 version also introduces management tools, better battery life optimization, new context menu options in File Explorer, and improved adaptive brightness, offering a more seamless user experience.

These features are designed to enhance various aspects of your Windows experience, from security and accessibility to creativity and productivity.

Windows 11 2024 Update Download

Microsoft says the Windows 11 24H2 feature update is being rolled out and delivered as an enablement package. You can head to Settings > Windows Update, enable the enablement package switch “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available”, and select ‘Check for updates’.

If you’ve got a compatible device, there are three ways to download and install the Windows 11 2024 Update right now: Windows Update, Media Creation Tool and Update Assistant.

Before go ahead:

  • Make sure you have a stable working internet connection to download Windows 11 version 24H2 files from the Microsoft server.
  • Temporarily disable or uninstall third-party antivirus from your computer and disconnect VPN if configured on your computer.
  • Disconnect external devices including USB flash drive, printer scanner or external HDD connected to your computer.

Download Windows 11 24H2 via Windows update

If you have a device already running either Windows 11 or Windows 10 version 2004 or later, you’ll be able to download the Windows 11 2024 update by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and clicking Check for Updates.

Windows 11 Version 24H2 update

If available, you’ll see Windows 11, version 24H2 is available. Click Download and Install. Here is a video Microsoft official recommends how to get the Windows 11 2024 update.

For devices already running Windows 11 version 24H2 this this is a small enablement package of around 600 MB, takes a few minutes to downlaod an install. But if you are upgrading Windows 11 24H2 from Windows 10 2004 and later, you can expect a much longer installation time that comes with a full feature update around 3.2 GB. (Ensure connected stable internet connection to download update files from the Microsoft server.

Note: Windows 11 version 24H2 is available as an optional update and you are free to install that update when it appears in Windows Update, or you can ignore it and go about your business.

Download Windows 11 24H2 using Installation Assistant

Also, you can use the official Windows 11 Installation assistant to update to upgrade or install Windows 11 2024 update manually. First Download and run the Microsoft PC Health Check app from Microsoft to ensure your Device is compatible with the latest Windows 11 version 24H2.

  • Go to the Download Windows 11 page on the Microsoft website and Look for the “Installation Assistant” option on the page.
  • Click the “Download Now” button located under this section to start downloading the Windows 11 Installation Assistant.

  • Locate the downloaded file, which is usually named “Windows11InstallationAssistant.exe.” Double-click on this file to run it.
  • The Windows Installation Assistant will begin checking your computer for Windows 11 hardware requirements. Click on the “Refresh” button to initiate this check.
  • Once your system is verified to meet the requirements, you’ll be presented with an option to “Accept and install” the Windows 11 24H2 update. Click on this option to proceed with the installation.

  • The Windows 11 update process involves three main steps: download, install, and apply. Wait for the update to download.

  • Once downloaded, it will verify the download and start the installation process.

  • After installation is complete, your computer need to reboot to finalize the installation.

Note: The assistant will automatically restart your computer after a 30-minute countdown. or You can click the “Restart now” button in the bottom right to start it immediately or the “Restart later” link in the bottom left to delay it.

  • Windows 11 will go through the final steps to finish installing the update. The installation of the Windows 11 24H2 Update continues your PC might reboot a couple of times. All there is left for you to do is wait for it to end.

That’s all, you have successfully upgraded your device to Windows 11 version 24H2. You can check the same from Settings -> System -> Scroll down the specifications section, and the version should say 24H2.

Download Windows 11 24H2 using the Media creation tool

Microsoft offers an official Windows 11 24H2 media creation tool to download the latest Windows 11 ISO or upgrade the latest version for free. Also, you can use the Media Creation Tool to create Bootable USB drive to install Windows 11 from Scratch using USB.

  • First, visit the official Windows 10 download page using your web browser,
  • Here Under, Create Windows 11 installation media, Click on Download tool now.’
  • This will download the MediaCreationTool.exe on your device.

  • Locate the download folder and double-click on MediaCreationTool.exe (Click yes if UAC ask for permission)
  • The Media Creation Tool will prepare a few things before it can proceed.
  • You will be greeted with a license agreement that you must agree to before continuing.

  • You’ll be on a “Getting a few things ready” screen for a while as the tool checks your system.
  • Next, you have two options: USB flash drive and ISO.
  •  Select the first option to create a Windows 11 bootable USB or the second option to download Windows 11 ISO.

Note: The download and installation time depends on your Internet speed and device hardware configuration.

You can right-click on the .iso file, click mount to open its content, and double-click “setup.exe” to install the update.

If you have created a bootable USB use it to perform a clean install of Windows 11.

Also read:

Steve Ballmer
With over 7 years of experience in the IT industry, I have experience in IT support, helpdesk, sysadmin, network admin, and cloud computing. Certified in Microsoft Technologies (MCTS and MCSA) and also Cisco Certified Professional in Routing and Switching.

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