Windows 11

Windows 11 is the latest version of the Windows client OS for desktop and portable devices, including all-in-one, laptop, tablet, and Windows-based IoT devices. Distinct editions with different features target diverse groups from consumers to enterprise users. 

Windows 11follows a Modern Lifecycle Policy that delivers one version per year via a General Availability Channel (GAC). Other Feature Updates are delivered with Quality Updates at Microsoft’s discretion. (For support details, see “Windows Client Timeline“.)

Windows 11 GAC

Windows 11 23H2 became generally available in Oct. 2023 via the GAC. Windows client OS versions get monthly Quality (security) Updates. Windows 11 24H2 will likely become generally available in the last quarter of calendar year 2024.

Versions of Windows 11 Enterprise and Education qualify for 36 months of support.

Despite the promised cadence of annual Feature Updates, Microsoft makes new features available and changes existing features via the GAC whenever it suits Microsoft’s purpose. Therefore, organizations need to use the Windows Insider program and review Canary builds to reduce the amount of testing required to understand which feature changes included with Quality Updates may break the organization’s line-of-business applications, require additional training, or increase help-desk support volume.