Facing an unexpected automatic upgrade to Windows 11 version 24H2 when you prefer to stay on your current 23H2 (or 22H2) setup? You can control when you upgrade by tweaking the Windows Update policy. Depending on your Windows 11 edition, you’ll use either the Group Policy Editor or the Registry Editor.
If your system has already made the jump to version 24H2, you can revert to a previous version through the recovery settings or by reinstalling the operating system.
While the Windows 11 24H2 update may bring improvements and features, it’s understandable to want to delay the update to ensure compatibility and stability. Starting January 2025, Microsoft has initiated automatic upgrades to version 24H2 for devices running 23H2 and 22H2. Here’s how to take charge and manage when the update happens.
Block Windows 11 24H2 Installation Using Group Policy
This method is available for Windows 11 Pro users and is generally considered the most straightforward way to manage updates.
Step 1: Open Start on Windows 11.
Step 2: Search for gpedit and click the top result to open the Group Policy Editor.
Step 3: Browse the following path:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Manage updates offered from Windows Update
Step 4: Right-click the “Select the target Feature Update version” policy and choose the Edit option.
Step 5: Check the Enabled option.
Step 6: Confirm the “Windows 11” operating system name for the product version to receive.
Step 7: (Option 1) Confirm the “23H2” version under the “Options” section for the “Target Version for Feature Update” setting if your current setup is Windows 11 23H2.
Step 8: (Option 2) Confirm the “22H2” version under the “Options” section for the “Target Version for Feature Update” setting if your current setup is Windows 11 22H2.
Step 9: Click the Apply button.
Step 10: Click the OK button.
Step 11: Restart the computer.
Once you complete the steps, the feature update won’t automatically download and install.
When you’re ready to upgrade, remove the configuration on Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Manage updates offered from Windows Update by choosing the “Not configured” option for the “Select target Feature Update version” policy. After undoing this configuration, force the upgrade from the “Windows Update” settings by clicking the “Check for updates” button.
Block Windows 11 24H2 Installation Using Registry
This method is suitable for Windows 11 Home users, as they do not have access to the Group Policy Editor. Proceed with caution, as incorrect changes to the registry can cause system instability.
Step 1: Open Start.
Step 2: Search for regedit and click the top result to open the Registry.
Step 3: Browse the following path:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows
Step 4: Right-click the Windows (folder) key, select the New submenu, and choose the Key option.
Step 5: Name the key WindowsUpdate and press Enter.
Step 6: Right-click the WindowsUpdate (folder) key, select the New submenu, and choose the String Value option.
Step 7: Name the new key ProductVersion and press Enter.
Step 8: Right-click the newly created key and choose the Modify option.
Step 9: Change the value to Windows 11.
Step 10: Click the OK button.
Step 11: Right-click the WindowsUpdate (folder) key, select the New submenu, and choose the DWORD (32-bit) Value option.
Step 12: Name the key TargetReleaseVersion and press Enter.
Step 13: Right-click the newly created key and choose the Modify option.
Step 14: Change the value to 1.
Step 15: Click the OK button.
Step 16: Right-click the WindowsUpdate (folder) key, select the New submenu, and choose the String Value option.
Step 17: Name the key TargetReleaseVersionInfo and press Enter.
Step 18: Right-click the newly created key and choose the Modify option.
Step 19: (Option 1) Change the value to 23H2 if your computer is on Windows 11 23H2.
Step 20: (Option 2) Change the value to 22H2 if your computer is on Windows 11 22H2.
Step 21: Click the OK button.
Step 22: Restart your computer.
After you complete the steps, the policy will prevent Windows 11 24H2 from being applied to your computer.
When you’re ready for the upgrade, remove the configuration on HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate by carefully deleting the "ProductVersion," "TargetReleaseVersionInfo," and "TargetReleaseVersion" keys or changing their values to their defaults.
Considerations Before Blocking a Feature Update
It’s important to understand why staying up to date is crucial.
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Feature updates often include critical security patches that protect your system from emerging threats.
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Microsoft only provides support and updates for actively maintained versions of Windows 11. Refer to the Windows 11 lifecycle for more info.
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Beyond security, feature and quality updates bring performance improvements and bug fixes that keep your system running efficiently.
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Windows 11 updates also introduce new tools and AI-powered features designed to enhance productivity and the overall user experience.
Delaying the update gives you control over when new features are installed, ensuring a smooth transition.