Microsoft has introduced major improvements to Windows Update with the release of Windows 11 version 24H2, significantly boosting update speed and efficiency. The update, which began rolling out earlier this month, brings enhancements that reduce installation time, minimize restart delays, and lower CPU usage during the monthly update process.
Windows 11 users receive cumulative updates every month, which include both security patches and non-security improvements. These updates are critical for protecting users from newly discovered vulnerabilities while also introducing new features and performance optimizations. With version 24H2, Microsoft has implemented changes designed to make this process smoother and faster. These updates now utilize parallel processing of system components, more scalable use of RAM, and an optimized cache system that speeds up updates considerably.
As a result of these changes, Windows 11 version 24H2 can install monthly updates up to 45% faster, while consuming up to 25% less CPU power during the process. For users, this means updates will complete much more quickly, reducing the amount of time their systems are tied up during installations. Additionally, restart times have improved by nearly 40% on some devices, making the process less disruptive to daily operations.
Microsoft tested these performance improvements by comparing version 24H2 against its predecessors, including Windows 11 versions 22H2 and 23H2, which still used older update servicing stacks. The results highlight the considerable leap in efficiency with this update. These optimizations not only speed up the process but also reduce system strain, allowing users to continue working with fewer interruptions.
Beyond speed improvements, Microsoft has also tackled the issue of update file sizes. One of the key enhancements in version 24H2 is a reduction in the size of feature updates, cutting them down by approximately 200MB. This reduction was achieved by avoiding unnecessary downloads of built-in apps if they are already up to date on the user's system. For instance, if users already have the latest version of Microsoft Edge installed, the update will no longer download it again, saving both time and bandwidth. As Steve DiAcetis from the Windows fundamentals team explained, this adjustment particularly impacts endpoints where these optimizations are applied.
Overall, these improvements in Windows 11 version 24H2 underscore Microsoft's commitment to streamlining the update experience. By making updates faster and more efficient, users benefit from less downtime, lower CPU usage, and smaller update files, allowing for a smoother and more efficient experience. These enhancements are part of Microsoft's broader strategy to refine how the operating system evolves over time, ensuring that Windows 11 remains both user-friendly and performance-optimized.
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