Skip to main content

The Windows 11 2022 Update has officially launched — here’s how to install it

The Windows 11 2022 Update is available to the public as of today as the first major update since Microsoft introduced its Windows 11 last year. The update is also known as Windows 11 version 22H2 and is available for both Windows 11 devices and those currently running Windows 10. Though Microsoft says the update will have a phased rollout, Windows users should be able to begin checking for the downloadable update immediately.

Difficulty

Easy

Duration

30 minutes

What You Need

  • PC compatible with Windows 11

  • Internet connection

  • Extra requirements might be needed if updating from Windows 10

Getting the latest Windows 11 system version should be easy, as you will be able to easily check within your Settings to see if your device is ready to update. Microsoft has noted that the only thing that will likely hold users back from being able to download and install the version 22H2 update are quality safeguards it has put in place, such as application incompatibility. In such cases, Microsoft might restrict or ban an update until the issue is fixed. You can learn more about how app incompatibility can affect your ability to install the Windows 11 2022 Update on the Windows release health website.

Windows 11 version 22h2 update.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

How to update from Windows 11

Updating to Windows 11 version 22H2 is pretty straightforward if you're coming from a previous version of Windows 11. If your device has not notified you of a new system update, you can check for the update in Settings using the following instructions.

Step 1: Open Windows Update settings by going to Settings > Windows Update.

Step 2: Select Check for updates.

Step 3: If the update is available, click Download now. The download will begin, and you can continue to use your PC until it finishes. When the download is complete, you'll be asked to restart you PC. When it's done, Windows 11 has been installed!

Windows 10 updating to Windows 11 version 22h2.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

How to update from Windows 10

Updating to Windows 11 version 22H2 from Windows 10 might take a little bit more work because you will have to ensure that your device meets the minimum system requirements to run Windows 11.

You can do so by using the PC Health Check app, which you can find by searching for “PC Health Check" on the taskbar and selecting it from the list of results. This app will help determine your device's eligibility for the Windows 11 version 22H2 update and the next steps you can take if your device is not eligible.

It should be noted that the Windows 11 eligibility requirements have not changed in the update.

If your PC meets the requirements, follow the same instructions as listed above.

With the release of Windows 11 last year, Microsoft has said that it will now be rolling out annual updates, which will feature a culmination of what the brand has been developing over the last 12 months. Some new features in this update include live captions, an update to the File Explorer, and a more customizable Start menu.

Still on Windows 10? Well, it will continue receiving its own annual updates, which are set to roll out in November. Microsoft said it will continue to support the older operating system throughout 2025.

Editors' Recommendations

Fionna Agomuoh
Fionna Agomuoh is a technology journalist with over a decade of experience writing about various consumer electronics topics…
How to optimize Windows 11 and Windows 10 for gaming
An Alienware + Windows 11 PC gaming setup.

If you've just upgraded to a new gaming PC or want to make the most of your older one, then optimizing Windows 11 and 10 for gaming can go a long way to maximize what your PC can do. It ensures you're getting the most for your money, and aren't leaving performance on the table which could make your game playing experience that bit more fun.

Read more
A massive Windows 11 AI feature may launch next week despite privacy concerns
Privacy settings in Windows 11.

Windows 11 continues to build a large toolset of AI features, but the one rumored to soon launch may be the biggest change yet -- especially when it comes to your PC's privacy. Windows Latest reports that in Build 26212, the Windows 11 AI integration is named Recall and can be found on the Privacy & Security page in settings (via Albacore on X).

The concern is due to its privacy toggle. According to the latest build, you can record everything on your screen to help you better find something you were working on or searching for. The positive side is that it can help you find the report you edited when you can't remember where you saved it by accessing the timeline interface. It will also help users with their browsing history. For example, if you searched for how to use WhatsApp Web, but can't remember which browser you used or what site the information was on, AI Explorer (or Recall, as it may be named) can find the information for you.

Read more
How to find your Windows 11 product key
EcoFlow River 2 Pro used indoors to power office computer and equipment.

Your Windows 11 product key is about as important as your social security number. Well, at least as far as your PC’s operating system goes. This is a random combination of numbers, letters, and dashes that you’ll seldom need, but when you do, you’re going to need to know where to find it. For Windows 11 users, there are multiple ways to access this crucial code, but we highly recommend writing it down and storing it in a safe place, too.

Read more