Microsoft Unveils Windows 11 24H2 Upgrade: Compatibility and Key Features for Office PCs

Today, Microsoft has unveiled important information regarding its upcoming Windows 11 24H2 update, specifically tailored for IT administrators and system administrators. This announcement covers the process of upgrading managed office and enterprise PCs to the latest version 24H2, along with details on app compatibility.

Firstly, Microsoft has specified that unlike Windows 11 23H2, the new Windows 11 24H2 update represents a full operating system replacement, which means it cannot be implemented merely through an Enablement Package (EKB).

Moreover, the tech giant has outlined the upgrade pathway for managed devices, enabling them to transition directly from Windows 10 to Windows 11 24H2. This is facilitated via the target version feature in the Windows Update for Business deployment service, as well as through feature updates using Windows Autopatch.

Microsoft continues to encourage users to transition promptly to the latest OS version, as Windows 10 is set to reach its end of support on October 14, 2025. Users who are on previous versions of Windows 11 must ensure their systems are at least running the May 2024 non-security preview to qualify for upgrading to Windows 11 24H2.

The company has also addressed application compatibility, asserting that “Windows 11 is the most compatible Windows operating system ever.”They have reassured users that their App Assure team is readily available to assist if any compatibility issues arise.

For those interested, Microsoft has provided a comprehensive feature list for the 2024 feature update. Noteworthy features include:

Windows Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS) policy enhancements and a new automatic account management feature.

Personal Data Encryption (PDE), protecting known Windows folders (Documents, Desktop, and Pictures) with user-authenticated encryption.

App Control for Business (formerly Windows Defender Application Control) to enhance protection against malicious code.

Windows protected print mode, removing the dependency on third-party software for Morpia certified printers.

Local Security Authority (LSA) protection to safeguard against credential and secret theft during logon.

Support for Wi-Fi 7.

Bluetooth® LE audio support for assistive devices.

New controls to manage which applications can access nearby Wi-Fi networks.

Introduction of Rust in the Windows kernel.

Support for SHA-3.

A scrollable list in Quick Settings to improve navigation, customizable for user convenience.

Text labels added to the cut, copy, rename, share, and delete actions in the File Explorer context menu.

Ability to create 7-zip and TAR archives.

Energy saver options available for extending battery life and managing energy use, configurable to operate automatically or manually via Quick Settings.

Enhanced adaptive brightness control for laptops and 2-in-1 devices, functioning even when plugged in.

Expanded functionality of Voice Clarity, which actively cancels echo, suppresses background noise, and reduces reverberation in real-time.