Microsoft has announced a change in the concept of distributing cumulative updates for the Windows 11 operating system. Starting with Windows 11 24H2, users will receive so-called “cumulative updates with checkpoints,” which are expected to be more compact and stable, and will also install faster and will not require any action from users or IT administrators.
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Essentially, checkpoint-based cumulative updates will include changes that have occurred since the last checkpoint was created, rather than since the RTM build of the OS was released. According to Microsoft, this approach will allow users to save time and space on their computer. This process may involve creating multiple checkpoints during the life cycle of a build. Ultimately, Microsoft wants to achieve a smaller download size for Windows devices, as well as a more sustainable redistribution of updates within organizations and a more efficient distribution of annual feature updates.
Administrators who receive updates from the Microsoft Update Catalog will see changes to the view of available packages. Monthly updates may contain multiple packages, one for each checkpoint, plus an additional file containing the cumulative updates from the latest checkpoint. These will need to be installed sequentially using your existing deployment tools.
Some users have already expressed concerns that the new update distribution scheme will further complicate the already complex update system. It is possible that it will be more difficult for users to roll back the OS state if problems arise after installing a package. In addition, there is always the possibility of conflicts between different updates with checkpoints or with existing system configurations.
But fears aside, the benefits of smaller, faster updates outweigh the potential downsides. Plus, Microsoft is committed to making the transition as smooth as possible. Users who want to try out the new feature can join the Windows Insider Preview program in the Dev channel and install Windows Insider Preview build 26120.1252.
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