Exploring Windows 11 2024 Update (24H2): Key Features & Changes

The Windows 11 2024 Update, officially known as Windows 11 24H2, commenced its rollout just last week, meaning your machine might already be basking in the glow of its fresh features. As users dive into this latest version, let’s navigate through some of the key enhancements and changes.

1. Quick Settings Improvements​

One of the standout features of this update is the revamped Quick Settings panel. This now includes a paginated interface, enabling you to swipe through settings easily instead of scrolling through a congested menu. Though you lose the ability to see all options simultaneously across several rows, the new design allows for better accessibility of buttons you use occasionally. Notably, a refresh button has been added to Wi-Fi settings, making it quicker to rescanning for networks.

Key Points:​

• Added pagination for Quick Settings.
• Improved toggles for VPN connections.
• New Live Captions button for accessibility.

2. Start Menu Recommendations (a.k.a. Ads)​

In a shift that could be seen as a minor nuisance, the Start menu now features more recommendations for apps—essentially ads designed to nudge users toward Microsoft Store offerings. While these suggestions appear in the lower section of the Start menu and regenerate each time the menu is accessed, they can be disabled through the Personalization tab in Settings.

Key Points:​

• Increased recommendations from the Microsoft Store.
• Can be managed via Personalization settings.

3. Context Menu Labels​

After initial concerns with the Windows 11 context menu redesign—remember those icons without labels?—the 2024 update brings back text labels alongside the icons for common actions like copy, paste, and cut, making it easier for users to navigate.

Key Points:​

• Glyphs now feature text labels for clarity.

4. Smaller, Faster Updates​

A groundbreaking addition is checkpoint cumulative updates. Generally, monthly updates would slowly accumulate and take longer to install as time passed. However, with this new system, earlier updates can serve as baseline checkpoints, leading to smaller and quicker download sizes in subsequent updates.

Key Points:​

• New baseline updates promise saved time and bandwidth.
• Significant benefit for IT administrators managing multiple systems.

5. Sudo for Windows​

In an exciting leap for users versed in Linux, Windows now includes a Sudo for Windows feature, allowing administrative commands to be executed without launching a separate console. This is significant for users looking for streamlined processes and reduces the need for multiple windows when performing elevated administrative tasks.

Key Points:​

• Introduces Linux-style command control to Windows.
• Allows for in-line running of administrative commands.

6. Protected Print Mode​

Windows 11 24H2 moves towards universal printing by phasing out third-party print drivers in favor of universal drivers. Users now have the option to enable protected print mode, which can be switched back if incompatible printers are encountered, displaying Microsoft’s commitment to user flexibility.

Key Points:​

• Gradual transition towards universal drivers.
• Users can enable/disable protected print mode as needed.

7. Redesigned Setup Interface for Clean Installs​

For those embarking on new installations, the USB installer interface has received a facelift. Users will encounter a more intuitive setup process that enhances drive partitioning and streamlines the boot process, bringing it up to 2024 standards.

Key Points:​

• Clearer interface for partitioning within a new install.

8. Wi-Fi Drivers During Setup​

A frequent hiccup during clean installs was the mandatory Microsoft account sign-in without network access, particularly on new machines. The 2024 update offers a work-around; users can now install necessary drivers directly from a USB.

Key Points:​

• A fallback option improves initial installation processes.
• Local account workarounds still available.

9. Boosted Security for File Sharing (SMB Changes)​

With increased focus on security, Windows 11 has tightened its SMB file-sharing connections. The update mandates that all connections require signing and disables guest access for SMB shares in the Pro edition, aiming to enhance security across the board.

Key Points:​

• Increased SMB security may disrupt some home NAS functions.
• Users may need to secure their NAS devices for compatibility.

10. End of Windows Mixed Reality​

A ghost from the past, Windows Mixed Reality, is officially discontinued. As Microsoft shifts its focus away from mixed reality experiences, users will need to seek alternatives, effectively removing mixed reality integration from the Windows fabric.

Key Points:​

• Windows Mixed Reality features completely removed.
• Support for HoloLens and Mixed Reality concludes.

11. Farewell to WordPad​

In a significant and somewhat controversial move, WordPad has been removed from Windows 11 24H2. This rich text editor, which has seen minimal updates, is now gone, leaving Notepad as the only native basic text editing tool.

Key Points:​

• WordPad is no longer available in the latest update.
• Represents a broader trend of simplification and focus on core apps.

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Final Thoughts​

The Windows 11 2024 Update ushers in a collection of both exciting and polarizing changes. Features like Sudo for Windows highlight Microsoft's increasing willingness to integrate user-friendly functionalities while also reflecting on past user feedback for the context menu. Meanwhile, the removal of legacy applications like WordPad and the push towards universal driver systems illustrate the company's strategic direction. Adjusting to these modifications will undoubtedly take time, but the overall goal remains clear: streamlining the Windows experience.
With these insights, are you ready to tackle the new features? What excites you the most about the 24H2 update? Share your thoughts and experiences on WindowsForum.com!
Source: Ars Technica Eleven things to know about in the Windows 11 2024 Update