Windows 11 25H2 ISO Files Now Available for Download

Windows 11 25H2 ISO Files Now Available for Download

September 11, 2025 – Last week, Microsoft postponed the release of Windows 11 version 25H2 ISO files without providing specific reasons, leaving many eager users speculating about how long they would have to wait to experience this new version.

Windows 11 25H2 ISO Files Now Available for Download

The good news is that the wait wasn’t long. Microsoft has now released the Windows 11 25H2 ISO files, which are available for download and installation through the Windows 11 Release Preview Insider channel.

In an updated blog post, Microsoft stated: “The ISOs for Windows 11, version 25H2 are now available for download.”

Previously, Microsoft confirmed that Windows 11 25H2 will not require a complete operating system replacement like 24H2 did. Instead, it will be delivered as an enablement package (eKB), making the upgrade process from 24H2 to 25H2 more similar to the 23H2 update.

According to Microsoft, 25H2 and 24H2 “share the same core operating system and the same system files.” This means that monthly updates for 24H2 will include 25H2’s new features, but these features will remain dormant until activated through the eKB.

What’s New in Windows 11 25H2 Compared to 24H2

While Windows 11 25H2 shares the same core foundation as 24H2, it introduces several notable changes and improvements:

Key New Features and Changes:

Start Mobile Sidebar Enhancement: Microsoft is expanding the Start mobile sidebar functionality to all PCs, making it easier to connect and interact with iPhone or Android devices directly from the Start menu.
Default App Management: A new policy called “Remove Default Microsoft Store packages from the system” will allow users to uninstall most default apps that come preinstalled with Windows 11, giving users more control over their system.
Feature Removals: Windows 11 25H2 removes some legacy components including:
- PowerShell 2.0
- Windows Management Instrumentation command-line (WMIC)
Enhanced Emoji Panel: Improvements to the emoji panel interface and functionality.
Extended Support Timeline: Users running version 25H2 will receive security and bug fixes for longer than those remaining on version 24H2 or older versions, as the new version resets the support clock.

Technical Details:

Build Number: 10.0.26200 (Build 26200.5074 for Release Preview)
Delivery Method: Enablement Package (eKB) rather than full OS replacement
Upgrade Path: Direct upgrade available from 24H2; users on 23H2 must first upgrade to 24H2
Availability: Currently in Release Preview Channel, with general availability expected later in 2025

The lightweight enablement package approach means that the upgrade process will be faster and less disruptive compared to previous major Windows updates, while still delivering meaningful improvements and new capabilities to users.