Microsoft has officially established the lifecycle timeline for Windows 11 version 24H2, designating October 13, 2026, as the end-of-support date for Home and Pro editions. According to updated official lifecycle documentation, the operating system version will receive 24 months of active support following its initial release on October 1, 2024. The policy requires users to transition to newer Windows 11 versions to maintain access to security patches and technical assistance. Microsoft published the lifecycle dates on its official Learn documentation and Windows release health support pages.
Event Details
The support schedule is listed under Microsoft’s Modern Lifecycle Policy on the official Windows 11 version 24H2 lifecycle documentation. While Home and Pro editions are set to expire in October 2026, Microsoft has granted an extended timeline for institutional users. Enterprise and Education editions of Windows 11 24H2 will remain supported for an additional year, with their lifecycle concluding on October 12, 2027. These dates represent the final day Microsoft will provide automated updates or online technical support for this specific build.
Background Context
Windows 11 version 24H2 was launched as a major annual update, introducing various performance optimizations and integrated features. Microsoft typically provides a two-year support window for consumer-facing versions of Windows 11, a cadence designed to move the user base toward the most current and secure version of the software. Microsoft has also confirmed that version 24H2 serves as the final supported version for Windows 11 SE, a specialized, cloud-first edition tailored for the K-12 education market.
Technology / Product Explanation
To maintain support beyond the 2026 deadline, users will be required to transition to Windows 11 version 25H2 or a newer iteration. Microsoft has indicated that version 25H2 is delivered via an “enablement package.” This method allows for a faster installation process because the new features are often already present on the device in a dormant state, sharing the same underlying codebase as version 24H2. The approach reduces downtime compared to full operating system installations.
Industry Impact
The 2026 deadline for Windows 11 24H2 coincides with a broader end-of-support cycle affecting several Microsoft products. Microsoft Office 2021 is scheduled to reach its end of support on October 13, 2026. .NET 9 support is scheduled to end on November 10, 2026. This convergence creates a significant compliance and maintenance window for IT administrators managing multiple software migrations.
Challenges / Risks
After October 13, 2026, devices remaining on version 24H2 will no longer receive monthly security updates, vulnerability patches, or bug fixes. Unsupported systems may face increased exposure to malware, compatibility issues with third-party applications, and non-compliance with regulatory and cybersecurity insurance standards.
What Happens Next
Users running Windows 11 24H2 are advised to monitor Windows Update for version 25H2 and subsequent releases. Microsoft recommends that organizations begin testing newer builds to confirm application compatibility. For Windows 11 SE users, the conclusion of 24H2 support marks the end of that product line, requiring a transition to alternative hardware or operating system configurations. Microsoft is expected to provide further roadmap updates as the October 2026 deadline approaches.