Let’s discuss how to Upgrade Windows 11 24H2 for Free. The easiest method is explained in this post. Upgrading to Windows 11 version 24H2 is free for eligible devices, and it brings a set of exciting new features focused on security, artificial intelligence (AI), and productivity enhancements.
The Windows 11 2024 Update, version 24H2, was officially released on October 1, 2024. This update brings various performance and security improvements along with new user features. In this post, you will find everything you need to know about how to upgrade to Windows 11 version 24H2 for free and an overview of its new key features.
You can easily set Windows 11 version 24H2 upgrade using Microsoft Intune. This update improves security, performance, and the overall user experience. It also helps boost productivity, improve multitasking, and increase energy efficiency, making daily tasks easier and faster.
Key features of Windows 11 24H2 include personal data encryption, enhanced security with Windows Hello using passkeys, and Windows Studio Effects to protect your data and identity. The update also brings built-in AI tools like live captions with real-time translation and better video call features that use powerful hardware for smoother performance.
Table of Contents
What is Windows 11 24H2?
Windows 11 24H2, also known as the Windows 11 2024 Update, is the latest feature update for Windows 11, providing new enhancements and features for users.
How to Upgrade Windows 11 24H2 for Free | Easiest Method is Explained
The Windows 11 version 24H2 update is now available as the first major feature update, and it’s free to install. This update brings significant improvements and new features, enhancing the operating system’s overall user experience and performance.
- Windows 11 24H2 Support with SCCM Timeline and Key Insights
- Best Way to Set Windows 11 24H2 as Optional Update with Intune
- Enable Disable Personal Data Encryption on Windows 11 Devices using Intune Settings Catalog
Get the Latest Updates as soon as they are Available
Turning the Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available option to ON ensures that your device will automatically check for and install updates as soon as Microsoft releases them. This feature keeps your system up-to-date with the latest security patches, performance enhancements, and new features, helping to improve your overall experience and protect your device from vulnerabilities.
- Start Menu > Settings > Windows Update > Get the latest updates as soon as they are available > Toggle to pane to Right side.
Click the Check for updates button in the window below. This will search for any available updates and notify you when they are ready. If updates are found, click the Download & Install button. The update process will take a few minutes to complete.
The window below shows the updates available to download. A message says, “Check if you are on an unmetered connection before downloading (data charges may apply on metered connections).”
- Click the Download and Install option next to Windows 11 version 24H2
- Why Does Windows 11 24H2 Have Outdated Versions of Paint and Snipping Tool?
- Windows 11 Version Numbers Build Numbers Major Minor Build Rev
You will see that Windows 11 version 24H2 is ready to download and install. Click to download and install all updates, which will take a few minutes to finish. After that, restart your device, and you can start using Windows 11 version 24H2.
Windows Update Available | Downloading Status |
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Windows 11 Version 24H2 | Downloasding 0% |
SCCM and Intune Method to Upgrade to Windows 11 24H2
There are different methods to upgrade to Windows 11 24H2 using SCCM and Intune. The following post talks about Intune’s way of upgrading to Windows 11 24H2.
New Features in Windows 11 24H2
Let’s discuss the key new features in the Windows 11 2024 Update for all PCs. These enhancements are designed to improve the overall user experience, boost productivity, and introduce new functionalities for Windows 11 users.
All the below-listed features are explained in detail in this Post – Windows 11 24H2 Now Available Through WSUS | New Features and Enhancements
- Microsoft has refreshed Copilot, which is now available as a standalone web app.
- AI-Powered Photos App – The app now includes AI-enhanced features for generative erasing and background editing.
- Windows Update now supports checkpoints and hot patching for quicker, less disruptive updates.
- Voice Clarity Feature – AI eliminates background noise picked up by your microphone in supported applications.
- You can now adjust power settings for plugged and unplugged states simultaneously.
- New Energy Saver Mode – This replaces the battery saver and applies to laptops and desktops.
- Mouse Scroll Wheel Configuration – You can customize the scroll wheel direction in Settings.
- Wi-Fi 7 Support – Hardware support for Wi-Fi 7 is now available.
- Enhanced PRISM Emulation – The new PRISM emulation layer improves the performance of x86 emulated apps on ARM devices.
- Smoother Performance on ARM Devices – ARM-based devices should now run more smoothly.
- Phone Link Integration – Phone Link is now integrated with the Start menu for easier access.
- Simplified Taskbar System Tray – The system tray layout in the taskbar has been simplified for better usability.
- Revamped Quick Settings – Quick Settings has been redesigned for faster access and more customization options.
- Default Windows Spotlight Wallpaper – The image is now the default wallpaper setting.
- HDR Desktop Wallpaper Support – You can now set HDR images as your desktop wallpaper.
- Updated File Explorer Home Tab – The File Explorer home tab now features an improved layout that includes shared documents.
- Tab Duplication – You can duplicate tabs by right-clicking on them.
- Redesigned Context Menu – The context menu has improved labelling for more straightforward navigation.
- You can now create .7z and. TAR archive formats directly within File Explorer.
- Access to Android File System – View your Android phone’s file system directly in File Explorer.
- New Outlook App – A new email, calendar, and contacts app is included.
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Author
Anoop C Nair has been Microsoft MVP from 2015 onwards for 10 consecutive years! He is a Workplace Solution Architect with more than 22+ years of experience in Workplace technologies. He is also a Blogger, Speaker, and Local User Group Community leader. His primary focus is on Device Management technologies like SCCM and Intune. He writes about technologies like Intune, SCCM, Windows, Cloud PC, Windows, Entra, Microsoft Security, Career, etc.