Updating the local Windows system installation package, it was found that version 25H2 has been released. The local system is still stuck on version 24H2. Microsoft’s update patches have been installed, but the local system hasn’t upgraded to version 25H2 yet. Curious about what steps were missing in between. This article is based on Microsoft official support documentation, outlining the core information of KB5054156 update to help users understand the key points for upgrading from Windows 11 24H2 to 25H2.
Update Overview
KB5054156 is a feature update for Windows 11 version 25H2, which activates new features through “Enable Package.” Its essence lies in leveraging the characteristic of Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 sharing the “Universal Core System” – new features in 25H2 are included in the latest monthly quality update for 24H2 but are in a dormant state. Enabling the package then activates these features as a “master switch.”
Supported Applications
This update only supports devices running Windows 11, version 24H2. The specific versions include:
- Windows 11 Enterprise and Education, version 24H2
- Windows 11 Enterprise Multi-Session, version 24H2
- Windows 11 Home and Pro, version 24H2
- Windows 11 IoT Enterprise, version 24H2
Core Advantages of Enabling Packages
Compared to traditional feature updates, the core value of enabling packages lies in reducing update downtime:
- No complex download and installation processes are required; only a single device reboot is needed to upgrade from 24H2 to 25H2;
- After upgrading, devices can immediately use the new features of the 25H2 version without waiting for a full system update.
Update Acquisition Methods
KB5054156 was released through three channels, with availability and steps varying by channel as follows:
| Windows Update | Available | Automatically downloads and installs, feature updates displayed as “Windows 11, Version 25H2”, no manual triggering required |
Update Acquisition Methods
| Distribution Channel | Availability | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Windows Update Catalog | Unavailable | None, this update is only available through Windows Update and WSUS channels |
Update Acquisition Methods
| Distribution Channel | Availability | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) | Available | Configure the following parameters for automatic synchronization: 1. Product: Windows 11 2. Category: Upgrade Rename the update to “Windows 11, Version 25H2” |
Upgrade Prerequisites
Before applying KB5054156, the following conditions must be met:
- Your device’s current operating system version is Windows 11, Version 24H2 (upgrades from lower versions are not supported); and
- You must have installed the KB5064081 cumulative update released on August 29, 2025 (OS internal version 26100.5074, including Preview and higher builds).
Reboot and Update Alternative Instructions
- Reboot Requirement: After installing KB5054156, you must restart your device to activate the 25H2 feature;
- Update Alternative: This update will not replace any previously released Windows updates, so there is no need to worry about overwriting historical update files.
References
- Microsoft Official Documentation: KB5054156: Using the feature update for Windows 11 version 25H2 enabled by packages
- Glossary Reference: Microsoft Software Update Standard Terminology Explanation