Windows 11 keeps evolving with updates designed to refine the overall user experience. For some time, Build 24H2 has been considered the key version of the operating system, but Microsoft has now moved forward with Windows 11 25H2, which is currently available only in its early, preview form.
This means the update isn’t yet stable and hasn’t begun rolling out to all users. However, those interested can already try it through different installation methods, which Microsoft has outlined in detail.
The company shared the first official information about Windows 11 25H2 on its blog, highlighting the upcoming features and improvements that will arrive once the build reaches full release.
Windows 11 25H2 Preview Now Available in Insider Channel
On August 29, 2025, Microsoft’s Windows Insider team announced on the official blog that the next major feature update, Windows 11 version 25H2, is now available for testing through the Insider Preview channel.
This release gives early adopters and IT professionals a chance to explore the update ahead of its stable rollout, which is expected toward the end of 2025.
Microsoft confirmed that version 25H2 will be delivered as an EKB (Enablement Package). This means it builds on the same servicing branch as Windows 11 24H2, rather than requiring a full OS upgrade. As a result, both versions will share certain features—while also retiring or replacing others.
It’s worth noting that the update is not yet available to the general public. At this stage, only members of the Windows Insider program can install it. Microsoft outlined multiple ways to try the new build, which will be detailed further in upcoming posts.
Ways To install the Insider version of Windows 11 25h2
If you’re running the stable version of Windows 11 and check for updates through Windows Update, you won’t see version 25H2 just yet. That’s because it’s currently available only to Windows Insider members, not the general public. Microsoft wants those who are interested—and aware of the potential risks—to test new features before the official rollout.
In the following sections, we’ll go over the different ways you can install Windows 11 25H2. However, keep in mind that since this is a preview build, it’s best not to install it on your main PC. Pre-release versions can sometimes cause performance issues or unexpected behavior.
Join the Insider program to install Windows 11 25h2
Join the Windows Insider Program
The first method, and the most obvious, as well as simple, is joining the Windows Insider program. Basically, allows you to test all the news of the operating system before they reach the stable version.
Here’s how to do it:
- Open Settings on your Windows 11 PC.
- Go to Windows Update → Windows Insider Program.
- Click Get Started.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account and link it to the program.
- Under Insider Settings, select Preview Build and press Continue.
- Read the terms carefully, click Confirm, and then Restart now.
- After your PC restarts, return to Settings → Windows Update and check for updates.
- The update for Windows 11 25H2 should appear. Start the download, and once it’s complete, click Restart now to install.
When your PC boots back up, you’ll be running Windows 11 25H2.
Use the Enablement Package (EKB)
If you’ve already installed Build 26100.5074, you can jump straight to Build 26200.5074 by installing the enablement package KB5054156.
To do this:
- Download the
.MSUinstaller for your system (either x64 or ARM64). - Run the installer to activate the new build.
- After installation, press Windows + R, type winver, and hit Enter.
- A window will show your current build—if it says 26200, you’re set.
Install via ISO (Coming Soon)
Microsoft will also make an ISO file available for Windows 11 25H2, allowing you to install it manually. This method isn’t available yet, but according to Microsoft, the ISO for Build 26200 will be released in the first week of September 2025.
When it’s live, you’ll be able to download it from the official Windows Insider ISO page and create a clean installation or upgrade manually.
Important reminder: Since this is still a preview build, it’s best to avoid installing it on your main PC, as bugs and performance issues are expected.
