What's new in Windows 11, version 24H2

 

What's new in Windows 11, version 24H2

Windows 11, Version 24H2: Comprehensive Overview

Windows 11, version 24H2 is the latest feature update for Windows 11, incorporating all features and fixes from prior cumulative updates in version 23H2. Below, we provide an in-depth look at the new and updated features important for IT professionals.

Servicing Timeline

• Windows 11 Pro: Serviced for 24 months from the release date.
• Windows 11 Enterprise: Serviced for 36 months from the release date.

Upgrade Requirements

To upgrade to version 24H2, devices must be running either:

• Windows 11, version 23H2
• Windows 11, version 22H2 with the May 2024 non-security preview update or a later update.

This version requires a full operating system swap and is not available as an enablement package. Windows 10 devices can upgrade using the same deployment processes and policies previously utilized for Windows 10.

Availability

Windows 11, version 24H2 is available through:

• Windows Server Update Services (WSUS): Including Configuration Manager.
• Windows Update for Business.
• Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC).

For guidance on obtaining the update, refer to the resource on getting Windows 11, version 24H2 and check the Windows IT Pro blog for deployment tools, including the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (ADK).

Update Rollout and Known Issues

Stay informed on the rollout status, known issues, and other updates by visiting the Windows release health page.

Enterprise Features

In version 24H2, there are no features under temporary enterprise control that were present in 23H2. For historical context, you can review the features that were temporarily controlled between versions 22H2 and 23H2.

Introduction of Checkpoint Cumulative Updates

Checkpoint Cumulative Updates represent a new servicing model, enabling devices running Windows 11, version 24H2 or later to save time, bandwidth, and storage when receiving updates. Instead of basing cumulative updates on the RTM (Release to Manufacturing) version, updates will now reference the most recent cumulative update, significantly reducing their size and speeding up installations.

• Prerequisites: To install a new cumulative update, the preceding cumulative update may need to be installed first.

For more details, see the checkpoint cumulative updates guide.

Features Exclusive to Copilot+ PCs

Copilot+ PCs introduce advanced features powered by a neural processing unit (NPU), capable of executing over 40 trillion operations per second. Key exclusive features include:

• Live Captions: Automatically translate audio and video into English subtitles from 44 languages.
• Windows Studio Effects: AI-enhanced effects for video calls, automatically improving lighting and canceling background noise.
• Cocreator in Paint: Use AI to generate artwork based on user prompts and drawings.
• Auto Super Resolution (Auto SR): AI-powered enhancement for smoother gameplay and higher resolution visuals.
• Image Creator and Restyle Image: Tools within Microsoft Photos that allow users to create and reimagine images using AI.

Key Features Added Since Version 23H2

Windows 11 has introduced numerous enhancements since version 23H2, including:

• SMB Protocol Enhancements:

  • SMB Signing: Now required by default for all connections across Home, Pro, Education, and Enterprise editions.
  • SMB Client Encryption: Administrators can enforce encryption on all outbound SMB client connections for improved security.
  • Auditing Support: Enables monitoring of SMB signing and encryption compliance for third-party clients or servers.

• LSA Protection: Automatically enabled during upgrades if no incompatibilities are detected, providing robust security against unauthorized access to logon secrets.

• Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS):

  • New features for automatic account management, including account creation, naming, and randomization.
  • Enhanced password complexity policies for improved security.

• Personal Data Encryption (PDE) for Folders: Protects content in user folders (Documents, Desktop, Pictures) using Windows Hello for authentication.

• Wi-Fi 7 Support: Introduction of support for the latest Wi-Fi technology, offering superior speed and efficiency.

Additional Improvements

• Remote Desktop Enhancements: User interface improvements, including scaling options and connection bar redesign.

• File Explorer Updates:

  • New context menu options for creating 7-zip and TAR archives.
  • Enhanced compression options for individual files using formats like gzip and BZip2.

• Developer API Enhancements:

  • New Power Grid Forecast API to help developers optimize energy usage based on grid conditions.
  • Enhanced energy saver notification settings for better management of application performance.

Features Removed in Version 24H2

Several deprecated features have been removed:

• WordPad: Eliminated from all editions of Windows.
• AllJoyn: Microsoft’s implementation, including related APIs and services, is retired.

Conclusion

Windows 11, version 24H2 introduces a host of new features, enhancements, and improvements designed to enhance security, user experience, and productivity. For detailed guidance on deployment, management, and feature usage, refer to the official Windows documentation and resources available through Microsoft.