Alex Ruben
How to Manually Initiate Windows 11 (24H2) Update via Registry Editor
This guide will walk you through the steps to manually force the Windows 11 (24H2) update using the Registry Editor. This method is useful for users who want to bypass the gradual rollout and obtain the update immediately. By following the steps outlined below, you’ll be able to update your system quickly and effectively.
Step 1: Install Pending Updates
Before manually forcing the update, it’s important to ensure that all pending updates are installed. Follow these steps:
- Right-click on the Windows icon in the taskbar.
- Select Settings from the menu.
- In the left-hand menu, click on Windows Update.
- Click the blue Check for updates button. Install any available updates.
- After installation, restart your computer to apply the changes.
Step 2: Open the Registry Editor
Next, you need to access the Registry Editor to make the necessary changes:
- Type
registryin the Windows search bar. - Open Registry Editor from the search results.
Step 3: Navigate to the Windows Update Registry Path
Once the Registry Editor is open, navigate to the following path:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Windowsupdate
Step 4: Edit or Create Required Registry Values
You may need to create or modify certain values in the Windows Update folder:
- In the right pane, look for
ProductVersion. If it exists, double-click it and set the value to Windows 11. If not, right-click in a blank space, select New, then String Value. Name itProductVersion(with a capital P and V), and set its value to Windows 11. - Next, look for
TargetReleaseVersion. If it exists, double-click it and set the value to 1. If it doesn’t, create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value, name itTargetReleaseVersion, and set the value to 1. - Lastly, check for
TargetReleaseVersionInfo. If it exists, double-click it and set the value to 24H2. If not, create a new String Value, name itTargetReleaseVersionInfo, and set its value to 24H2.
Step 5: Create the Windows Update Key (if necessary)
If you can’t find the Windows Update folder, create it by following these steps:
- Right-click on the Windows folder, select New, and then Key.
- Name it Windows Update (make sure the W and U are uppercase).
Step 6: Restart and Check for Updates
After making the necessary changes, close the Registry Editor and restart your computer. Once rebooted:
- Open Windows Update again.
- Click on Check for updates to see if the Windows 11 (24H2) update is now available.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
If you encounter any issues, make sure you’ve entered the registry values correctly and restarted your system after making changes. It’s also a good practice to back up your registry before making any modifications to prevent unintended problems.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can successfully force the Windows 11 (24H2) update on your computer. This method is particularly useful for those eager to experience the latest features without waiting for the gradual rollout. If you found this guide helpful, consider checking other Windows-related tutorials for more tips and tricks!