Forum Discussion

S-Jimon's avatar
S-Jimon
Tin Contributor
Aug 07, 2026

How can I update Windows 11 23H2 to 26H2 or 26H1 now?

I am currently running Windows 11 version 23H2 and would like to know if there is a reliable way to upgrade to either 26H1 or 26H2 right now, as I have not seen these versions appear in my Windows Up...
security
Roseedu's avatar
Roseedu
Brass Contributor
Aug 07, 2026

Joining the Windows Insider Program is currently the most direct, officially supported path to update Windows 11 23H2 to 26H2, since version 26H2 is still in preview and hasn't been released to the general public . However, whether you should do this depends heavily on your current system and your tolerance for risk.

The experience of upgrading to Windows 11 23H2 to 26H2 is not the same for everyone. It depends entirely on which version of Windows 11 you are currently running.

  • If you are on Windows 11 24H2 or 25H2: Your computer shares the same core codebase as 26H2. Upgrading is a breeze, requiring a tiny 174 KB "enablement package" that flips a switch to activate new features . The process is fast and requires just one restart .
  • If you are on Windows 11 23H2 or older: You do not share that codebase. To upgrade Windows 11 23H2 to 26H2, you must install a full feature update, which is roughly 6.5 GB in size, takes much longer to download and install, and may require multiple restarts.

 

If you are prepared to test a preview, here is the path to update Windows 11 23H2 to 26H2 through the Insider Program:

  1. Sign in with a Microsoft account: Your PC must be using a Microsoft account, not a local one, to enroll in the Insider Program .
  2. Navigate to Settings: Go to Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program .
  3. Join the program: Click "Get started" and link your Microsoft account.
  4. Select the correct channel: Choose the Experimental channel. This is where 26H2 preview builds are being tested . You may see an option labeled "Windows 11, version 25H2" as the target; this is the correct selection for the current 26H2 builds .
  5. Check for updates: Restart your PC and then check for updates. Windows Update should offer you the 26H2 preview build.

 

Joining the Insider Program is the right way to update Windows 11 23H2 to 26H2 early, but you must be prepared to test unfinished software on a non-critical device. If you just want the stable version, it's safer to wait for the general availability expected in the fall of 2026 .