The 21H2 version, the first version of Windows 11, is due on October 5th, and Microsoft has already started distributing it to its commercial partners for testing and validation before the start of distribution to the general public.
This is a milestone in the development of Windows 11 because it means that the operating system is being tested for use by business customers.
Companies participating in the Windows Insider testing program should receive a new notification on Windows Update. In addition to the trial program, Windows 11 is also available through Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) and Azure Marketplace.
Installing Windows 11 is optional, so users can choose to continue using Windows 10, in versions 21H1 or 20H2. They can also choose to upgrade Windows 10 to version 21H2 (October 2021 Update), and continue to receive updates.
If you have hardware compatible with Windows 11, but don’t want to upgrade, you can click on the ‘Keep Windows 10 for now’ option. When this option is selected, the update to version 21H2 of Windows 10 will be offered. The notification will not appear if the computer hardware is not compatible with Windows 11.
Windows 10 version 21H2 is a minor update that includes several general improvements and new security features for businesses.
The next step in the development of Windows 11 will be the release on the Release Channel of the Windows Insider testing program, which is aimed at the general public.
Microsoft has already announced that Windows 11 will be available for download on October 5th to anyone who already has Windows 10 v2004 or later running on compatible hardware. The company expects the upgrade to be available to everyone by mid-2022.
Microsoft has not changed the minimum processor requirements for Windows 11, which mentions Intel processors from the eighth generation, or second generation AMD Ryzen. The company is warning those testing Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, that they have given feedback on the user experience, that they should switch back to Windows 10.
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