{"id":8127,"date":"2025-11-03T10:11:47","date_gmt":"2025-11-03T15:11:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/?p=8127"},"modified":"2025-11-05T16:55:26","modified_gmt":"2025-11-05T21:55:26","slug":"windows-11-25h2-update","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/03\/windows-11-25h2-update\/","title":{"rendered":"Windows 11 25H2 Update: Why Every Device (and User) Should Care in 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8147 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Windows-11-25H2-Update.jpg\" alt=\"Windows 11\u2019s signature Bloom: a vibrant, abstract rose reflecting the bold innovation of the 25H2 Update.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Windows-11-25H2-Update.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Windows-11-25H2-Update-500x263.jpg 500w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Windows-11-25H2-Update-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Windows-11-25H2-Update-768x403.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/support.microsoft.com\/en-us\/topic\/windows-11-version-25h2-update-history-99c7f493-df2a-4832-bd2d-6706baa0dec0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Windows 11 25H2 Update<\/a> has just landed, and all of my desktops and my XPS13 laptop made the transition without a hitch. Windows 11 25H2 Update isn\u2019t just another routine patch\u2014it\u2019s a milestone upgrade, and this time, every system I maintain performed the upgrade with zero issues, smooth as ever.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">When your entire lineup\u2014including three custom desktops from my <a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/tech\/pcs\/custom-pc-builds-gallery\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">My Computers<\/span><\/a> gallery and one reliable XPS13 laptop\u2014nails the update on day one, it\u2019s proof positive that Microsoft delivered on both stability and user experience. But there\u2019s more to the Windows 11 25H2 Update than convenience or cosmetic changes: in 2025, the stakes for regular updates are higher than ever, with new features designed to keep pace with threats and the demands of modern hardware.<\/p>\n<p><!--more--><\/p>\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">But honestly, keeping up with all the latest technical details, the cosmetic tweaks, new features, and especially the growing threats in today\u2019s tech world is way above this humble hermit&#8217;s pay grade. Now, I\u2019m bringing in my Perplexity AI Sidekick to break down the nuts and bolts of the Windows 11 25H2 Update, security risks, and why it all matters in 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sidekick, are you ready to take this part?<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Sidekick:<\/strong> Sure, Karmi, be glad to! Let\u2019s dig into what\u2019s actually new in the Windows 11 25H2 Update, what\u2019s at stake if you skip critical upgrades, and the steps every device owner should take this year.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/03\/windows-11-25h2-update\/#Whats_New_in_Windows_11_25H2_Update\" >What\u2019s New in Windows 11 25H2 Update<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/03\/windows-11-25h2-update\/#Risks_from_Outdated_Hardware_Firmware\" >Risks from Outdated Hardware &amp; Firmware<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/03\/windows-11-25h2-update\/#Staying_Safe_in_a_Rapid-Tech_World\" >Staying Safe in a Rapid-Tech World<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/03\/windows-11-25h2-update\/#My_Computers\" >My Computers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/03\/windows-11-25h2-update\/#Outro\" >Outro<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h4 class=\"mb-2 mt-4 font-display font-semimedium text-base first:mt-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_New_in_Windows_11_25H2_Update\"><\/span>What\u2019s New in Windows 11 25H2 Update<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul class=\"marker:text-quiet list-disc\">\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Redesigned Start Menu<\/strong><br \/>\nScrollable category and grid views, tighter integration with Phone Link, and the option to hide the Recommended section for greater privacy and streamlined navigation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>AI Actions in File Explorer<\/strong><br \/>\nAdvanced context menu lets you run Bing Visual Search, blur backgrounds, erase objects, and remove backgrounds on image files; select Office documents can be summarized by AI without opening the file.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Enterprise Wi-Fi 7 Support<\/strong><br \/>\nAdds next-gen speeds, throughput, and security enhancements for business networks\u2014now ready for certified Wi-Fi 7 devices.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Policy-based Removal of Preinstalled Apps<\/strong><br \/>\nEnterprise\/Education admins can permanently remove default Microsoft Store apps (Teams, Clipchamp, Media Player) during device provisioning, blocking reinstallation after updates.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Copilot &amp; \u201cClick to Do\u201d Upgrades<\/strong><br \/>\nNew context actions, improved summaries, and an agent in Settings helping users automate more workflows and access useful AI-driven functions.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Task Manager Overhaul<\/strong><br \/>\nConsistent CPU usage calculations across all windows; new columns for granular utility data.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Battery Icon Improvements<\/strong><br \/>\nGradient battery display with percentage visible on lock screen and taskbar, delivering instant clarity on charge status.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Update Process Streamlined<\/strong><br \/>\n25H2 features are delivered primarily as an enablement package\u2014most files already exist in 24H2, making upgrades fast and nearly trouble-free for compatible systems.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>User Experience &amp; Stability<\/strong><br \/>\nMost users report smooth, stable upgrades; only rarely do advanced registry tweaks or enterprise restrictions block feature activation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>References:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/learn.microsoft.com\/en-us\/windows\/whats-new\/whats-new-windows-11-version-25h2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-state=\"closed\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">What&#8217;s new in Windows 11, version 25H2 for IT pros | Microsoft Learn<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/www.neowin.net\/news\/windows-11-25h2-and-24h2-get-the-new-start-menu-and-a-lot-of-new-features-in-kb5067036\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-state=\"closed\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2 get the new Start menu and a lot of new features in KB5067036<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/support.microsoft.com\/en-us\/topic\/windows-11-version-25h2-update-history-99c7f493-df2a-4832-bd2d-6706baa0dec0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-state=\"closed\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">Windows 11, version 25H2 update history &#8211; Microsoft Support<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/pureinfotech.com\/windows-11-new-features-2025-25h2-24h2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-state=\"closed\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">Windows 11 new features officially available in 2025 for versions 25H2 and 24H2 &#8211; Pureinfotech<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/www.windowscentral.com\/microsoft\/windows-11\/whats-in-the-new-start-menu-on-windows-11-for-versions-25h2-and-24h2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-state=\"closed\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">Microsoft revamps the Start menu in Windows 11 \u2014 Windows Central<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=XHa3XMck9QQ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-state=\"closed\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">Windows 11 November 2025 Update: Enable ALL New Features (YouTube)<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h4 class=\"mb-2 mt-4 font-display font-semimedium text-base first:mt-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Risks_from_Outdated_Hardware_Firmware\"><\/span>Risks from Outdated Hardware &amp; Firmware<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul class=\"marker:text-quiet list-disc\">\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Unpatched Security Vulnerabilities<\/strong><br \/>\nUnsupported devices (old routers, printers, laptops) stop receiving critical security updates, leaving known vulnerabilities permanently exposed and easily exploited by attackers.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Stacking Vulnerabilities Over Time<\/strong><br \/>\nEvery missed update adds new unpatched flaws. Within months, a single obsolete device can become riddled with dozens of ways hackers can get in.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Compatibility Failures<\/strong><br \/>\nOld hardware may not support the advanced security features required by Windows 11 25H2 Update, such as Secure Boot and TPM 2.0\u2014leading to vulnerabilities that cannot be fixed without hardware replacement.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Reduced Performance and Reliability<\/strong><br \/>\nLegacy devices slow down, crash more often, and struggle with modern tasks, causing productivity drain and making it harder to run essential security tools.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Legal and Compliance Risks<\/strong><br \/>\nMany industries require supported, patched tech for regulatory compliance (HIPAA, PCI-DSS, GDPR). Relying on obsolete equipment can result in fines, lost contracts, or customer lawsuits if a breach occurs.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Firmware Update Gaps<\/strong><br \/>\nPrinters, networking gear, and storage drives demand regular firmware updates\u2014but most IT teams (and home users) neglect these, opening the door to data theft and device hijacking.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>References:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/bandrcomputers.com\/is-your-old-hardware-a-security-time-bomb-when-to-replace-retire-or-reinforce-your-tech\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-state=\"closed\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">Is Your Old Hardware a Security Time Bomb? When to Replace &#8230;<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/adivi.com\/blog\/the-threats-of-using-outdated-software-and-hardware\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-state=\"closed\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">The Threats of Using Outdated Software and Hardware &#8211; Adivi<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/www.directive.com\/blog\/the-hidden-dangers-of-outdated-hardware-and-software.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-state=\"closed\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">The Hidden Dangers of Outdated Hardware and Software<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hp.com\/us-en\/newsroom\/press-releases\/2025\/only-36-of-it-teams-apply-printer-firmware-updates-promptly-leaving-devices-vulnerable.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-state=\"closed\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">Only 36% of IT Teams Apply Printer Firmware Updates Promptly &#8230;<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/pureinfotech.com\/windows-11-25h2-system-requirements\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-state=\"closed\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">Windows 11 25H2 system requirements and hardware compatibility &#8211; Pureinfotech<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h4 class=\"mb-2 mt-4 font-display font-semimedium text-base first:mt-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Staying_Safe_in_a_Rapid-Tech_World\"><\/span>Staying Safe in a Rapid-Tech World<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul class=\"marker:text-quiet list-disc\">\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Always update both your operating system and all device firmware<\/strong><br \/>\nWindows 11 25H2 Update is only as secure as the hardware and firmware that supports it\u2014from your router, SSD, and motherboard to printers and connected peripherals.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Retire unsupported devices as soon as vendors drop update support<\/strong><br \/>\nRouters, NAS, and old laptops not receiving updates are now prime targets for cyberattacks and data theft.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Use automated security tools to scan your network<\/strong><br \/>\nRegular scanning for unpatched vulnerabilities on your local network helps identify weak links before hackers do.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Test new firmware in a controlled environment<\/strong><br \/>\nFor mission-critical devices, apply and verify updates on a spare unit before rolling out broadly.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Make sure critical devices support Windows 11 25H2 Update requirements<\/strong><br \/>\nTPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and certified Wi-Fi 7 hardware are now baseline for full protection.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Have a scheduled device refresh plan<\/strong><br \/>\nHome users and organizations alike should keep a calendar for planned upgrades and replacements; falling behind is no longer an option.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">That wraps up the security and safety essentials for keeping your lineup ready for Windows 11 25H2 Update. Back to you, Karmi!<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>Karmi:<\/strong> Thanks Sidekick, and well done!<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>References:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/adivi.com\/blog\/the-threats-of-using-outdated-software-and-hardware\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">The Threats of Using Outdated Software and Hardware &#8211; Adivi<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nist.gov\/news-events\/news\/2025\/08\/nist-revises-security-and-privacy-control-catalog-improve-software-update\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">NIST Revises Security and Privacy Control Catalog to Improve Software Update<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/en-us\/windows\/windows-11-specifications\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">Windows 11 Specs and System Requirements &#8211; Microsoft<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ikarussecurity.com\/en\/security-news-en\/legacy-systems-how-outdated-hardware-and-software-threaten-corporate-security\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">Legacy Systems: How Outdated Hardware and Software Threaten Corporate Security<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/cmitsolutions.com\/idahofalls-id-1207\/blog\/the-hidden-dangers-of-outdated-tech-why-your-business-needs-a-hardware-refresh\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">The Hidden Dangers of Outdated Tech: Why Your Business Needs a Hardware Refresh<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h4 class=\"mb-2 mt-4 font-display font-semimedium text-base first:mt-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"My_Computers\"><\/span>My Computers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul class=\"marker:text-quiet list-disc\">\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">Building my own computers has always been part of my workflow, except for the Dell XPS13, which is the only store-bought unit in my current lineup.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">No new builds planned for now\u2014\u201cFrank\u201d (Frankenstein) will keep going until it\u2019s truly obsolete.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">Here\u2019s the full lineup as of the Windows 11 25H2 Update:<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure id=\"attachment_8141\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8141\" style=\"width: 1041px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8141\" src=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/my-computers.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1051\" height=\"847\" srcset=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/my-computers.jpg 1051w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/my-computers-500x403.jpg 500w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/my-computers-1024x825.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/my-computers-768x619.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1051px) 100vw, 1051px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-8141\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">All four systems in the current lineup\u2014Apevia, Rose, Frankenstein, and XPS13 (see My Computers gallery for specs and build history).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<ul class=\"marker:text-quiet list-disc\">\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">Each machine now runs Windows 11 25H2 Update. See below for version details.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure id=\"attachment_8143\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8143\" style=\"width: 1093px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8143\" src=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/XPS13-Apevia.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1103\" height=\"445\" srcset=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/XPS13-Apevia.jpg 1103w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/XPS13-Apevia-500x202.jpg 500w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/XPS13-Apevia-1024x413.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/XPS13-Apevia-768x310.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1103px) 100vw, 1103px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-8143\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Windows 11 25H2 specs for Dell XPS13 and Apevia desktop after upgrade.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_8144\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8144\" style=\"width: 892px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8144\" src=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Rose-Frank.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"902\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Rose-Frank.jpg 902w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Rose-Frank-500x194.jpg 500w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Rose-Frank-768x298.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 902px) 100vw, 902px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-8144\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Windows 11 25H2 specs for Rose and Frankenstein desktops post-upgrade.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<ul class=\"marker:text-quiet list-disc\">\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">Interesting find:<br \/>\nWhy does Settings &gt; System &gt; About report my Windows 11 25H2 Update was \u201cinstalled\u201d on 11\/22\/2024 when I just completed the upgrade today?:<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<blockquote>\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\"><strong>AI Overview:<\/strong> The &#8220;system about&#8221; information may be showing the initial date of the 25H2 enablement package being staged on your system, which happened on November 22, 2024, even though the update installed today. Version 25H2 was rolled out as a small enablement package that turned on features already present from the previous 24H2 update, rather than a full new installation\u2014often causing this discrepancy.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<h4 class=\"mb-2 mt-4 font-display font-semimedium text-base first:mt-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Outro\"><\/span>Outro<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul class=\"marker:text-quiet list-disc\">\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">Many users are still reluctant to update or replace old equipment, but new threats make this mistake riskier than ever.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">Firmware is just as critical as software\u2014don\u2019t put it off, especially for routers, network gear, and SSDs.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">As of late 2025, the market share for older versions of Windows is extremely low: Windows 7 about 2.5%, Windows XP only 0.22%, and Vista often under 1% \u2014 but even small numbers mean thousands of vulnerable systems.<br \/>\n<a class=\"reset interactable cursor-pointer decoration-1 underline-offset-1 text-super hover:underline font-semibold\" href=\"https:\/\/gs.statcounter.com\/os-version-market-share\/windows\/desktop\/worldwide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span class=\"text-box-trim-both\">Desktop Windows Version Market Share Worldwide<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure id=\"attachment_8138\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8138\" style=\"width: 1068px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8138\" src=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Windows-version-market-share.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1078\" height=\"922\" srcset=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Windows-version-market-share.jpg 1078w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Windows-version-market-share-500x428.jpg 500w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Windows-version-market-share-1024x876.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Windows-version-market-share-768x657.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1078px) 100vw, 1078px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-8138\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Windows desktop OS version shares in late 2025\u2014older OSes rare but not extinct<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<ul class=\"marker:text-quiet list-disc\">\n<li class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:pt-0 [&amp;&gt;p]:mb-2 [&amp;&gt;p]:my-0\">\n<p class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\">In the end, staying updated isn\u2019t just about Windows 11 25H2 Update\u2014it\u2019s about resilience, security, and making your daily tech life run smoother. Don\u2019t skip the details, and don\u2019t wait till the next crisis to patch it all.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Windows 11 25H2 Update has just landed, and all of my desktops and my XPS13 laptop made the transition without a hitch. Windows 11 25H2 Update isn\u2019t just another routine patch\u2014it\u2019s a milestone upgrade, and this time, every system I maintain performed the upgrade with zero issues, smooth as ever. When your entire lineup\u2014including &#8230; <a title=\"Windows 11 25H2 Update: Why Every Device (and User) Should Care in 2025\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/03\/windows-11-25h2-update\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Windows 11 25H2 Update: Why Every Device (and User) Should Care in 2025\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"iawp_total_views":15,"footnotes":""},"categories":[131,254,283,103,256,221,36],"tags":[28,37],"class_list":["post-8127","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-hardware","category-ai-chatbots","category-ai-whisperer-notes","category-microsoft","category-technology","category-updates","category-windows-11","tag-technology","tag-windows-11"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8127","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8127"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8127\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8148,"href":"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8127\/revisions\/8148"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8127"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8127"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/karmismusingstech.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8127"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}