The “original” version of Windows 11 is about to die

Microsoft recently ended support for Windows 10 version 21H2, making version 22H2 the only supported Windows 10 release at the moment. On the other hand, Windows 11 is still relatively new, but it’s also time to discuss the upcoming end of life dates for some major versions.

Microsoft has just announced to those still using the original Windows 11 release, version 21H2, that this version is about to enter the end of support phase, specifically on October 10, 2023. End of support means that the release will no longer receive any cumulative updates along with bug fixes, security patches, and new features.

The “original” version of Windows 11 is about to die

According to official documentation from Microsoft, the upcoming end of support will affect the following versions of Windows 11 released in October 2021:

  • Windows 11 Home, version 21H2
  • Windows 11 Pro, version 21H2
  • Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, version 21H2
  • Windows 11 Pro Education, version 21H2

If you're running one of the above SKUs, it's time to head over to Windows Update and enable version 22H2 and its corresponding "Moment" feature updates (all of which are free). These releases include a ton of changes and long-requested features that improve the already-controversial Windows 11 experience.

Microsoft plans to release another feature update later this year. Windows 11 version "23H2" will bring a series of changes to the taskbar, many improvements to the Settings app, Dev Home app, redesigned volume mixer interface, improved File Explorer, etc. All of which promises to further optimize the user experience.

Last but not least, the end of support for Windows 11 version 21H2 will not affect customers using Windows 10 version 22H2. Windows 10 22H2 will still be supported for another two years, but users should not expect new feature updates or major changes to be introduced by Microsoft on this version.

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