MC1162947 – Windows 11, version 25H2 is now available via feature updates

Product:

Intune, Windows, Windows Autopatch

Platform:

Online, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

Admin impact

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Windows 11 version 25H2 is available from September 30, 2025. Upgrading during October (a baseline month) keeps devices eligible for hotpatch updates; upgrading outside baseline months pauses hotpatching until the next baseline. Organizations should schedule upgrades accordingly to maintain hotpatch continuity.

Details:
Windows 11, version 25H2 is now being offered to eligible devices via feature updates. For customers enrolled in hotpatch quality update policies, when the upgrade is taken can affect whether devices continue to receive hotpatch updates during the current hotpatch cycle. Devices that upgrade during a designated baseline release period (such as October) will remain eligible for hotpatching. Devices that upgrade during a non-baseline month (such as November) will temporarily stop receiving hotpatch updates and, until the next baseline release in January 2026, will instead receive standard security updates that require a restart.
[When will this happen:]
The Windows 11, version 25H2 upgrade will be offered starting September 30, 2025, with October 2025 designated as the baseline month for hotpatch eligibility. Organizations should plan their upgrade timing accordingly to maintain hotpatch continuity.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-10-01

updated:
2025-10-01

Task Type

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MS How does it affect me

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MS Preperations

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MS Urgency

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Hotpatch Update Eligibility
Upgrading outside of the designated baseline month will result in devices temporarily losing eligibility for hotpatch updates, leading to potential security vulnerabilities until the next baseline month.
   - roles: IT Administrator, Security Officer
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/deployment/windows-autopatch/manage/windows-autopatch-hotpatch-updates#release-cycles

User Experience Disruption
Devices that upgrade outside of the baseline month will receive standard updates that require a restart, causing unexpected downtime and disruption to user activities.
   - roles: End User, Help Desk Support
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/hotpatch-for-client-frequently-asked-questions/4413582

Compliance and Security Risks
Failure to upgrade during the baseline month may lead to compliance issues due to delayed security updates, increasing the risk of data breaches or cyber attacks.
   - roles: Compliance Officer, IT Security Manager
   - references: https://aka.ms/Windows11/25H2/UpdateHistory

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

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Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

Windows 11 version 25H2 is now available, and it's important for organizations to understand how and when to upgrade to ensure smooth operations. Think of this upgrade process like planning a road trip. If you start your journey during a time when the roads are clear and well-maintained, you'll have a smoother ride. In this analogy, the "clear roads" represent the baseline months like October, when upgrading ensures your devices continue to receive seamless hotpatch updates. Hotpatch updates are like quick pit stops that don't require you to turn off the engine, keeping everything running smoothly without interruption.

However, if you choose to upgrade during a non-baseline month, such as November, it's like hitting a road with construction work. Your devices will still receive necessary updates, but they will be standard updates that require a restart, similar to having to stop and wait for road repairs to be completed before you can continue your journey.

To keep your devices running efficiently, it's crucial to plan your upgrade timing. Review your organization's update schedule and settings to ensure that upgrades occur during baseline months. This way, your devices can continue to receive the quick and efficient hotpatch updates, avoiding unnecessary downtime.

By understanding and planning around these upgrade cycles, organizations can maintain a smooth and efficient IT environment, much like planning a well-timed road trip to avoid delays and keep the journey pleasant.