● Covered by 1 source · 8 reportsMedium impact5 neutral
Microsoft Releases Key Windows Security Updates and Support Changes
Key points
- Windows 11 receives security updates KB5101650/5099414 for 571 vulnerabilities.
- Windows 10 gets update KB5099539, fixing 570 vulnerabilities.
- Extended Security Update support for Windows 10 is now until Oct 12, 2027.
- Windows 11 24H2 Home/Pro support ends October 13, 2026.
- Users encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 for continued updates.
- Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 support ends October 13, 2026.
- Windows 11 24H2 Enterprise and Education editions are supported until October 2027.
- Windows 11 25H2 became generally available in September 2024.
- Windows 11 25H2 is a minor update installed via an enablement package.
- Unmanaged Windows 11 24H2 Home/Pro devices will automatically upgrade to 25H2.
- Windows 11 KB5120998 preview update released for versions 25H2 and 24H2.
- KB5120998 includes 35 changes, including taskbar position customization.
- KB5120998 adds a smaller taskbar option and Start menu size options.
- KB5120998 is an optional update without security fixes.
Overview of Windows Security Updates
Microsoft has released cumulative security updates KB5101650 and KB5099414 for Windows 11 versions 25H2/24H2 and 23H2. These updates address a total of 571 vulnerabilities, featuring improvements such as Bluetooth fixes and a Point-in-Time restore feature. For Windows 10, Microsoft issued the KB5099539 update, fixing 570 vulnerabilities and enhancing security further.
Extended Support for Windows 10
Alongside the updates, Microsoft extended the free Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 until October 12, 2027, allowing users to receive crucial security patches for a longer period. This decision ensures continued protection against security threats for both enterprise and consumer users of Windows 10.
End of Support for Older Windows Editions
Windows 11 version 24H2 Home and Pro editions will reach end of support on October 13, 2026. After this date, devices will no longer receive monthly security or non-security preview updates, highlighting the need for users to upgrade to the most current version, Windows 11 25H2.
Impact on Users and Enterprises
Up-to-date security measures and support are critical for both enterprises and individual users, making these updates and changes in support crucial for maintaining system security and functionality. The transition to newer versions like Windows 11 25H2 represents an essential step in leveraging updated security features.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Microsoft's recent updates reflect its commitment to security across its platforms. Users should install the latest updates promptly and consider upgrading to supported versions to ensure continued protection against vulnerabilities.
Updates
- Windows 11 KB5120998 preview update released for versions 25H2 and 24H2.
- KB5120998 includes 35 changes, including taskbar position customization.
- KB5120998 adds a smaller taskbar option and Start menu size options.
- KB5120998 is an optional update without security fixes.
- Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 support ends October 13, 2026.
- Windows 11 24H2 Enterprise and Education editions are supported until October 2027.
- Windows 11 25H2 became generally available in September 2024.
- Windows 11 25H2 is a minor update installed via an enablement package.
- Unmanaged Windows 11 24H2 Home/Pro devices will automatically upgrade to 25H2.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
Microsoft released the KB5120998 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2, introducing 35 changes such as taskbar position customization, a smaller taskbar option, and Start menu adjustments. This optional update allows IT administrators to test new features and bug fixes before their wider release.
Microsoft announced that Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions will stop receiving security and non-security updates on October 13, 2026. Users are advised to upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 to continue receiving updates and protection from security threats.
Microsoft released the Windows 10 KB5120249 cumulative update for versions 22H2 and 21H2, addressing security vulnerabilities and bugs. This update resolves a File History backup issue and expands the rollout of new Secure Boot certificates, which matters for system stability and security.
Microsoft has released mandatory cumulative updates KB5121003 and KB5120240 for Windows 11 versions 25H2/24H2 and 23H2, addressing 400 security vulnerabilities and introducing new features. These updates improve File Explorer functionality, enhance Windows Search accuracy, and add Voice Isolation to Voice Access.
Microsoft released the optional KB5101684 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2, which includes 42 bug fixes and new features. This update is part of the monthly non-security preview schedule, allowing users to test upcoming changes before the next Patch Tuesday.
Microsoft will cease updates for Windows 11 version 24H2 Home and Pro editions on October 13, 2026. Users are encouraged to upgrade to version 25H2 to maintain security and receive updates.
Microsoft released the KB5099539 security update for Windows 10, fixing 570 vulnerabilities. The update extends the free Extended Security Updates program for consumers until October 12, 2027, addressing security and compatibility issues.
Microsoft has released cumulative updates KB5101650 for Windows 11 25H2/24H2 and KB5099414 for 23H2. These updates address security vulnerabilities and introduce new features, marking the seventh 'Patch Tuesday' release of 2026.