What is eKB? Let’s explore the concept of eKB, which stands for “Feature Enablement Package.” Microsoft is constantly used nowadays to upgrade to new operating system versions like Windows 11 and probably Windows 12 also.
In the context of Microsoft, eKB can refer to an Enablement Package KB. An Enablement Package KB (eKB) is a package that makes updating to newer versions of Windows 11 faster and easier and requires only a single restart.
Instead of performing a full reinstallation or download of a large operating system update, the eKB is a more efficient way to enable the new features and changes introduced in the next version. By downloading and installing the eKB, the device can seamlessly transition from one version of Windows to the next without needing a full OS upgrade.
eKB is the method to upgrade to the next version of Windows, and eKB might only have 6 KB (6 kilobytes) in size. It is nothing but a feature enablement package. You would need to download eKB, a feature enablement package, to get upgraded from Windows 11 22H2 to 23H2, which is getting released in the coming months.
What is Enablement Package KB (eKB)?
When looking to update to a newer version of Windows 10 and 11, Microsoft suggests using the corresponding Enablement Package KB (eKB). This clever approach streamlines the update process, making it faster and more straightforward for users. Unlike traditional upgrades involving complex installations, the eKB allows for a seamless transition with just one restart.
How to Find the eKB for a Specific OS on Your Laptop?
To locate the Enablement Package KB (eKB) for a particular operating system, navigate to the “Improvements” section and select or tap on the name of the OS. Expand the collapsible section containing additional details about that specific OS version.
What is eKB? – Video Shorts
The following video shorts provide a rapid overview of the eKB, a powerful “feature enablement package.” In these videos, you will understand how the eKB enhances the update process, allowing seamless feature activation within your existing operating system.
What is eKB?
eKB is nothing but the Windows OS version upgrade enablement package. The enablement package is a great option for installing a scoped feature update like Windows 11, version 23H2, as it enables an update from version 22H2 with a single restart, reducing update downtime.
Windows 11, Version 23H2, will be available as an eKB
For those already enjoying the benefits of Windows 11, version 22H2, the transition to the latest version, Windows 11, version 23H2, is simple. No need to worry about complex installations or time-consuming setups. Microsoft has made it remarkably simple with an enablement package known as the eKB.
- Don’t delay your Windows 11 journey start or continue your rollout with the current version, Windows 11, version 22H2.
- Experience the latest features and improvements while preparing for the seamless transition to Windows 11, version 23H2, set to release in the fourth quarter of 2023.
- When the time comes, effortlessly deploy the 23H2 enablement package using one of the following reliable methods.
| Methods | Descriptions |
|---|---|
| Windows Server Update Services | Easily manage and distribute the 23H2 enablement package across your network using WSUS. |
| Windows Update for Business | It helps to manage updates and deploy the 23H2 enablement package efficiently to your organization’s devices. |
| Windows Autopatch | Simplify the update process with Windows Autopatch |
Note! – eKB Unavailable on Volume Licensing Service Center. Media packages contain the complete Windows 11 operating system.
Branches and Windows Versions
A branch is a repository of source code used to build the Windows operating system. A branch can have multiple products/editions, each product/edition having the same final build number. A branch remains in service until the final product shipping from it reaches the end of its lifecycle.
The window below helps you show the Windows versions and their related branches.
| Windows release(s) Build | Build number | Branch name | Verbally referenced name |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows Server 2019 | |||
| Windows Server 2022 | 20348 | Fe | Iron |
| Windows 10, version 1903 | 18362 18363 | 19H1 | |
| Windows 10, version 1909 | 19041 | Vb | Vibranium |
| Windows 10, version 2004 | 19041 | Vb | Vibranium |
| Windows Server, version 2004 | 19042 | Vb | Vibranium |
| Windows 10, version 20H2 | 19042 | Vb | Vibranium |
| Windows Server, version 20H2 | 19043 | Vb | Vibranium |
| Windows 10, version 21H1 | 19044 | Vb | Vibranium |
| Windows 10, version 21H2 | 19045 | Vb | Vibranium |
| Windows 10, version 22H2 | 22000 | Co | Copper |
| Windows 11, version 21H2 | 22621 | Ni | Nickel |
1903/1909 Servicing Windows Branches
Once a version of Windows, such as Windows 10, version 1903, is publicly released, its maintenance and improvement don’t stop there. Microsoft continues to provide regular updates every month.
These updates encompass security and non-security fixes, ensuring your operating system remains robust and protected. Traditionally, these updates are scheduled for release on the second Tuesday of each month, commonly known as “Patch Tuesday.” However, if a critical security fix is urgently needed, updates may be released “out-of-band” to address the issue swiftly.
Each version on a shared servicing branch shares all the following information.
- The source code
- Security and non-security fixes
- Compatibility and regression testing were done before the release
Servicing Branch for Windows 10, Versions 20H1/20H2/21H1/21H2/22H2
Shared servicing of Windows 10, version 20H1 through 22H2, exemplifies a unified approach to optimizing your Windows experience. It includes shared security fixes, non-security fixes, and payload for the next version.
| Windows Release(s) | Build Number | Branch Name | Verbally Referenced Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows 10, version 1903 | 18362 | 19H1 | 19H1 |
| Windows 10, version 1909 | 18363 | 19H1 | 19H1 |
| Windows 10, version 20H1 | 19041 | Vb | Vibranium |
| Windows 10, version 20H2 | 19042 | Vb | Vibranium |
| Windows 10, version 21H1 | 19043 | Vb | Vibranium |
| Windows 10, version 21H2 | 19044 | Vb | Vibranium |
| Windows 10, version 22H2 | 19045 | Vb | Vibranium |
| Windows 11, version 22H2 | 22621 | Ni | Nickel |
| Windows 11, version 23H2 | TBD | Ni | Nickel |
eKB Vs LCU Size Comparison
Microsoft finalizes the development of the next Windows version; they create new media, including ISOs and a feature enablement package called eKB. The ISOs are full “feature updates” that enable the OS swap from
Windows versions earlier than 22H2.
| Component | Description | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Base 20H1 image | The Base image of Windows 10, version 20H1 | 3 GB |
| Final non-22H2 LCU | Contains the complete payload for additions 20H1-22H2 | 715 MB |
| 22H2 eKB | Enables new 22H2 features and changes the version number | 6 KB |
| Security Stack Update | Enables the installation of the eKB | 14 MB |
Old method to Upgrade to Windows 10 or Windows 11 version
Let’s also quickly check the old method to upgrade to Windows 10 or Windows 11 latest versions – Easiest Option To Upgrade To Latest Version Of Windows 10 21H1 | No Need To Download 21H1 | Best Upgrade Option.
Windows client roadmap update: July 2023 – Microsoft Community Hub
Author
About Author – Vidya is a computer enthusiast. She is here to share quick tips and tricks with Windows 11 or Windows 10 users. She loves writing on Windows 11 and related technologies. She is also keen to find solutions and write about day-to-day tech problems.