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carlopiccioni's avatar
carlopiccioni
Copper Contributor
Oct 29, 2026

Windows 11 Build 22635.3936 Not Receiving Updates After Leaving Insider Program

Hello everyone, i'm having an issue with Windows Update on my main PC and would appreciate some advice.

I'm currently running Windows 11 Pro, build 22635.3936 (23H2), which was originally released through the Windows Insider Beta Channel in July 2024.

I left the Windows Insider Program while this build was still installed. Since then, my PC has remained on the same version and hasn't received any major Windows updates.

Windows Update says my system is up to date, but it only installs occasional updates for Microsoft Defender, .NET Framework and other components.

The Windows Insider settings now show the option to join the program again, so my PC no longer appears to be enrolled.

What I've checked:

  • Windows Update shows no errors.
  • Updates are not paused.
  • No TargetReleaseVersion restriction was found in the registry.
  • The Insider registry settings don't show an active channel.
  • The system is still running build 22635.3936.

My question:

Is there a way to upgrade to a current stable version of Windows 11 without losing my personal files, installed applications, games or settings?

I've downloaded an official Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft but haven't started the installation yet.

I don't currently have a complete backup available, so I'm particularly concerned about data loss and would prefer to avoid a clean installation.

Has anyone experienced something similar, or can someone from the Windows Insider team recommend a supported upgrade method?

Thank you for your help.

windows 11 pro update os issue
windows insider build

1 Reply

  • Jamony's avatar
    Jamony
    MCT
    Oct 30, 2026

    Leaving the Insider Program does not itself replace the preview build already installed, so an unenrolled device can still be running 22635.3936. To investigate keeping your applications, use the official ISO from inside your running Windows installation, rather than booting from it. First create a backup of irreplaceable files and obtain any device-encryption recovery key. Mount the ISO, run setup.exe, and inspect Change what to keep before committing to installation. The required choice is “Keep personal files and apps.” Use media matching the installed edition, architecture and system language. If that option is unavailable or Setup reports an unsupported upgrade path, cancel and record the exact message; do not select files-only or Nothing. Microsoft documents both in-place and clean-install routes, but this particular preview-to-retail transition must pass compatibility checks. Since you lack a complete backup, stop at the compatibility assessment until your important data is protected