Microsoft Enhances Hardware and Driver Compatibility Testing for Windows 11 24H2 and Server 2025

Recently, Microsoft appeared to announce the release date for the Windows 11 24H2 feature update. However, following extensive reporting on this date, the company edited the information, replacing it with a more vague statement.

This alteration by Microsoft may be strategic, especially since a new version of the Hardware Lab Kit (HLK) for Windows 11 24H2 and Windows Server 2025 is expected to be released soon. The initial version of the HLK was launched in March, and Microsoft is refreshing it to rectify test Errata that were identified in the original HLK.

For those unfamiliar, HLK is crucial for hardware vendors as it ensures compatibility and facilitates the driver certification process. In this context, Errata refers to bugs or issues that may result in a certification test failing, even on hardware or drivers that are otherwise compatible.

The Windows HLK falls under the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP), a testing framework that assists hardware manufacturers and Microsoft partners in validating the compatibility of hardware and drivers for Windows 11 and 10, among other operating systems, enabling them to obtain the Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL) certification.

If you’re unsure about your PC’s compatibility with the 24H2 update, Microsoft assures that the system requirements for this new version remain unchanged. However, devices equipped with very outdated processors will no longer be able to bypass these requirements.

In a recent blog post on the Tech Community, Microsoft elaborated on the upcoming refreshed HLK:

Microsoft is excited to announce that we will roll out a refreshed HLK for Windows 11 24H2 and Windows Server 2025 in October.

This HLK release will include fixes for test Errata, ensuring high test quality and minimizing triage time for known testing issues. The updated HLK will replace the Release to Manufacturing (RTM) version currently available on the HLK download site. Partners can utilize either the RTM version of the HLK for Windows 11, version 24H2, or the refreshed HLK for WHCP submissions, provided that passing results are achieved (waivers acceptable).

Additional information about the Errata has also been provided. Microsoft has mentioned it is transitioning to this servicing model for HLK to facilitate ongoing compatibility checks for drivers and hardware, eliminating reliance on Errata:

Errata fixed in the refreshed version are expected to expire 90 days post-release of the updated HLK. Throughout this transition into a servicing model that upholds test quality and lessens dependency on Errata, we recognize that the refreshed HLK may not cover every scenario. If any Errata continue to be a concern after utilizing the refreshed HLK, please reach out to CSS for support.

For further details on the HLK Refresh Release for Windows 11 24H2 and Windows Server 2025, you can find the information here on Microsoft’s official Tech Community website.

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