Windows 11 Lifecycle Access

| Item | Details | |------|---------| | | October 31, 2023 | | End of support (Home/Pro) | November 11, 2025 | | End of support (Enterprise/Education) | October 8, 2026 (36 months from release) |

For the most current dates, always check the official Microsoft Windows Lifecycle Fact Sheet .

This requirement effectively cut the lifecycle short for millions of perfectly functional PCs built before 2018. While users can install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware via workarounds, Microsoft does not guarantee updates or support for these machines. This has created a bifurcated lifecycle: windows 11 lifecycle

Since its announcement in June 2021, Windows 11 has marked a significant shift in Microsoft’s approach to operating systems. Unlike the gradual evolution of Windows 10, Windows 11 introduced a stark visual redesign, stricter hardware requirements, and a focus on security and productivity.

: These editions receive 24 months of support from the release date. | Item | Details | |------|---------| | |

To stay supported, you must install the annual feature update within 24 months of its release (or 36 months for Enterprise/Education).

The is governed by Microsoft's Modern Lifecycle Policy , which provides continuous service and support as long as users stay current with system requirements and feature updates. Unlike older versions of Windows that had a 10-year fixed support window, Windows 11 releases annual feature updates, each with its own specific "End of Service" date. Core Support Timelines This has created a bifurcated lifecycle: Since its

Receive 36 months of support from the release date. Windows 11 Version Lifecycle Table

Historically, Windows versions were identified by major "Service Packs" or entirely new version numbers (e.g., Windows 7 to Windows 8). Windows 11 follows the model pioneered by Windows 10.

| Version | Released | End of support | |---------|----------|----------------| | 21H2 | Oct 2021 | Oct 2024 (expired) | | 22H2 | Sep 2022 | Oct 2025 | | 23H2 | Oct 2023 | Nov 2025 | | 24H2 | Oct 2024 | Oct 2026 | | Future 25H2 (expected) | ~Oct 2025 | ~Oct 2027 |

: These editions receive 36 months of support to allow for longer validation periods in corporate environments.