Microsoft Prepares for Windows 11 25H2 Rollout
Microsoft has commenced the process of uploading Windows 11 25H2 to its servers, signaling that the public release of this update may occur within the next week or two, though an earlier launch is also a possibility. Current indications suggest that Build 26200.6584 has been finalized and is now being distributed to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) as part of the release to manufacturers (RTM) phase.
For users already operating on Windows 11 24H2 with the most recent cumulative updates, there is no need to download a full ISO. In fact, the transition can be simpler. Users in this situation only need to install a concise Enablement Package (KB5054156) tailored to their system architecture (either x64 or ARM64).
This Enablement Package is notably small, ranging from 166 to 170 KB, as it primarily unlocks features of the 25H2 version that are already integrated within the existing 24H2 architecture. This package is expected to be distributed to all compatible PCs as Windows 11 25H2 achieves general availability in the coming weeks.
For those still on Windows 11 23H2, or if you prefer either an in-place upgrade or a clean installation, you can opt to utilize the official Windows 11 25H2 consumer ISOs. Our recent assessments reveal that the x64 ISO encompasses approximately 7.2 GiB (≈ 7377 MiB), while the ARM64 ISO is around 7.0 GiB (≈ 6961 MiB).
Furthermore, Microsoft has provided comprehensive checksums (SHA-256, SHA-1, etc.) for both the Enablement Packages and ISOs, enabling users to verify the integrity of their downloads. To conduct local verification, you can utilize the Command Prompt with the following command:
certutil -hashfile <filename> SHA256
For reference, here are the SHA checksums for the Enablement Package Update:
SHA384: 4e65535f2a667702b6a7cad036679e3c4715aea4c2f252f4200c1d099613018db2750c80f2fdeec04af85bf9796489bd SHA512: 91c5c513966131c12b5abc372c4311f4dcbc64606ac0011e10c38add69e721cace5c5935666fa498a08878302d1a0237fc21d4693b70c4ee2449f3f260dc25f2 SHA3-256: 59932f8f2dc2100cdd2198f914fc9568a23ff2d1a0771373ad3820585ec642a4
For the ISO files, the following SHAs are available from Microsoft’s servers:
SHA384: e7b6a3049f787bdbdadf21c5f39a708e33a99b719764b1803716277d423201a603e1afd08efd40fa6dc650bdb7b6df0f SHA512: 43f866358d228050c31fdb260cbd3fba3aadca0ade89561538d434451a6d27b3a1534b4650d84b3ad9167bde4a96d279dee49b20a5fdd1fa5205bb72e34b236b SHA3-256: 7242b2efea88a56d3cb8108adac9b804ce29f618c58636c97b7e35a29b0a0cfe
Ensure that ISOs downloaded from any source correspond with the SHA values listed above. However, it is recommended to wait a bit longer before downloading. Microsoft may release a revision, indicating that a short wait could prove beneficial. If you’re eager to access these ISOs, which are currently available on Microsoft’s official website (not exclusive to the Windows Insider Program), the link is below:
https://software-static.download.prss.microsoft.com/dbazure/888969d5-f34g-4e03-ac9d-1f9786c66749/26200.6584.250915-1905.25h2_ge_release_svc_refresh_CLIENT_CONSUMER_x64FRE_en-us.iso
Patience is Key: Windows 11 25H2 Is Not a Major Update
It’s essential to understand that the 25H2 update does not introduce features beyond those available in Windows 11 24H2. Various online commentators suggest that the standout feature of this release is a revamped Start menu design and performance enhancements. But is this a comprehensive assessment?
The 25H2 update indeed includes a new Start menu, designed to remove the Recommended feed and presents a streamlined, single-page layout for easier app navigation. However, it’s crucial to note that this redesigned Start menu will also become available to users still operating on Windows 11 24H2.
In conversations with Microsoft representatives, it was indicated that the updated Start menu might appear on Windows 11 24H2 installations prior to the full rollout of Windows 11 25H2. It’s worth mentioning that any other changes characterized as exclusive to the 25H2 version are likely to be incorporated into the 24H2 build as well.
Moreover, users upgrading from Windows 11 24H2 to 25H2 might not see the new Start menu immediately due to Microsoft’s staged rollout process. I have experienced this firsthand; after installing Windows 11 25H2, I noticed the new Start menu was enabled, yet the Phone Link panel was removed. For those who regularly utilize this feature, note that it could be temporarily hidden during or after the update and may return later.
Such occurrences exemplify Microsoft’s ongoing A/B testing, which can lead to unexpected behavior even in stable releases.
Having personally utilized Windows 11 25H2 for a month on my primary desktop, I find it comparable to the 24H2 version. As is common with Windows updates, the system might initially feel quicker after installation before eventually reverting to its typical performance level.
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