Forum Discussion
The Insider Preview version displays a warning that it is about to expire
I am currently running the Windows 11 Insider Beta (25H2). The system keeps notifying me that this version is about to expire and that I need to update as soon as possible, but when I click Check for updates, it shows that I am already running the latest version and that no updates are available. Should I manually force an update to a specific version, or should I wait for Microsoft to release a new version?
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The warning means your Insider build has an expiration date even though Windows Update currently has no newer Beta flight to offer. Do not force-install a random ISO or older build. Run winver and record the build, then confirm Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program still shows Beta and the account registered for Insider builds. Turn on “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available,” restart, and check again. Compare the build with Microsoft’s Flight Hub and current Beta release notes. If your build is current but the warning remains, submit Feedback Hub diagnostics with the expiration message and update scan time. If a newer same-channel build is listed but not offered, use only Microsoft’s current Insider ISO after backing up. If no compatible upgrade arrives before expiration, the supported fallback is a clean installation of a public Windows release, which removes apps and can erase files.
The warning refers to the Insider build’s evaluation certificate, not the Windows license. Do not install a random update package or switch to Future Platforms just to remove it.
Run winver and check the full build number and expiry date. If the PC is still on build 26220.8925, it should receive 26220.9022 or a newer Beta 25H2 build, which renews the flight certificate. Because the expiry date is close, do not simply wait indefinitely.
Keep Beta > Windows 11, version 25H2 selected. Confirm that the registered Insider account is still connected and that Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback > Send optional diagnostic data is enabled. Then restart the PC, run the Windows Update troubleshooter, and check again.
An official Beta Insider ISO may be used for an in-place upgrade only if its build is newer than the installed one and it offers Keep personal files and apps. Back up important files first. Changing to 26H1 is optional and moves the device to a different preview track; it should not be used as the first fix for a missing 25H2 update.
