Microsoft has officially announced that Windows 11 version 23H2 for Home and Pro editions will reach its end of support on November 11, 2025. After this date, affected devices will no longer receive important security updates, bug fixes, or feature improvements.
This means that millions of Windows users have less than three months to prepare for the upgrade. Failing to update could leave your system exposed to security risks, malware attacks, and software compatibility problems.
According to Microsoft’s Windows Release Health dashboard, the Enterprise and Education editions of Windows 11 23H2 will continue to receive updates until November 10, 2026. However, Home and Pro users must act sooner.
Microsoft stated:
“Windows 11 Home and Pro, version 23H2 will reach the end of updates on November 11, 2025. Customers contacting Microsoft Support after this date will be advised to upgrade to the latest version of Windows 11 to remain supported.”
In July 2025, Microsoft also reminded customers that the last supported editions of Windows 11 version 22H2 will stop receiving updates on October 14, 2025. This makes it clear that both 22H2 and 23H2 are nearing retirement, and users should plan their migration to a newer release soon.
Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11 version 24H2, also called the Windows 11 2024 Update. This version began rolling out in May 2024 for enterprise customers in the Windows Insider Release Preview Channel and became generally available for eligible Windows 11 22H2/23H2 devices in October 2024.
The new version includes performance improvements, security enhancements, and updated features aimed at improving productivity. However, not all devices will be able to upgrade immediately.
Before upgrading, users should check for compatibility holds. Microsoft has placed safeguards on some devices to prevent upgrade issues. These holds are applied to systems with known driver or software conflicts, including:
SenseShield Technology code-obfuscation drivers
Certain integrated cameras
Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST) audio drivers
Wallpaper customization applications
Dirac audio enhancement software
If your PC has any of these issues, Windows Update may block the installation until the problem is resolved. Microsoft advises users to visit the Windows 11 compatibility pages to check if their device is affected.
You can find detailed information about Windows version support timelines using Microsoft’s Lifecycle Policy Search Tool or by visiting the Windows Lifecycle FAQ. Microsoft also publishes a complete list of products approaching retirement, so IT admins and individual users can plan updates accordingly.
Running an unsupported version of Windows is risky. Without updates, your PC will:
Miss security patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities
Lose bug fixes for stability issues
Face software compatibility problems with new apps
Fail compliance requirements for business and enterprise environments
Hackers often target outdated systems because they lack the latest security fixes, making them easier to exploit.
Statistics from Statcounter Global Stats reveal that, three years after its October 2021 release, Windows 11 has finally overtaken Windows 10. As of 2025, 53% of all Windows devices now run Windows 11, compared to 42% still using Windows 10.
The shift is even more pronounced among gamers. According to Steam’s Hardware & Software Survey for July 2025:
59.9% of gamers use Windows 11
35.1% still use Windows 10
This shows that performance improvements and game optimizations in Windows 11 have encouraged faster adoption in the gaming community.
If you are still running Windows 11 23H2 Home or Pro, here are some steps to ensure a smooth upgrade:
Check Your Current Version
Go to Settings → System → About to confirm your Windows version.Back Up Your Data
Save important files to an external drive or cloud storage before upgrading.Update All Drivers
Install the latest drivers for graphics, audio, and peripherals.Check for Compatibility Holds
Use Microsoft’s compatibility resources to verify your system is ready for Windows 11 24H2.Install the Update
Once eligible, go to Settings → Windows Update and download 24H2.
Deadline:
Windows 11 23H2 Home & Pro — End of support: November 11, 2025
Windows 11 22H2 — End of support: October 14, 2025
To keep your PC secure, functional, and compliant with modern apps, upgrade to Windows 11 24H2 as soon as possible.
Failing to upgrade on time could leave your system open to cyberattacks, data loss, and performance issues.
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