What is new in Windows 11 24H2

Windows 11 24H2 is a major update bringing a mix of new features, improvements, and the removal of legacy elements. In this blog, we’ll explore both the changes that end users will notice and those that matter more for IT administrators. We’ll also highlight features that are being removed or deprecated in this release.

End-user focused changes and additions

Native support for rar and 7-zip file formats

One of the standout features in Windows 11 24H2 is native support for RAR, 7-Zip, and tar file formats. Previously, third-party tools like WinRAR or 7-Zip were required.

Impact: Users can now handle compressed file formats without needing additional software, simplifying file management.

Dynamic lighting for RGB peripherals

Dynamic Lighting is now built into Windows, providing a native way to control RGB lighting on peripherals like keyboards, mice, and more. Previously, users needed separate software from device manufacturers.

Impact: This simplifies RGB control for users, especially gamers, and reduces the need for multiple vendor-specific apps.

Notifications Hub consolidation

Windows 11 24H2 revamps the Notifications Hub, streamlining notifications and making them less intrusive but easier to manage. Alerts, reminders, and messages are consolidated for a cleaner experience.

Impact: Users will benefit from fewer interruptions and a more organised notification centre.

Improved cloud backup and restore

The updated Windows Backup tool now allows users to back up apps, settings, and files directly to OneDrive, making it easier to restore them on new devices.

Impact: Setting up a new device will be smoother, as users can restore their apps and settings with minimal effort.

Energy recommendations

Windows 11 now provides Energy Recommendations in the Settings app. These recommendations help users optimise their devices for lower energy consumption, such as adjusting screen brightness or sleep settings.

Impact: Users looking to extend battery life or reduce their carbon footprint will find this feature helpful.

MS Paint updates

MS Paint gets a significant update, adding support for layers and transparency. While still not a full-blown photo editor, these new features increase its usability for light image editing.

Impact: Casual users may find MS Paint more useful for simple graphic tasks, while advanced users may still prefer third-party tools.

IT administrator focused changes

More control over windows autopatch

Windows Autopatch gets new features, allowing administrators to have more control over how updates are scheduled and deployed. Granular patching options enable testing with smaller groups before a full rollout.

Impact: This helps reduce potential issues during large-scale patch deployments and gives admins more flexibility.

Enhanced security dashboard

The Microsoft Defender and Security Center dashboards have been unified, providing a single view of threat detection, antivirus status, and compliance. This integration offers better visibility into device security.

Impact: Administrators can monitor and respond to security threats more efficiently with a more streamlined interface.

Windows Hello for Business improvements

With 24H2, Microsoft continues its push towards a passwordless future with enhancements to Windows Hello for Business. Administrators now have more tools to enforce biometric and FIDO2 key authentication policies.

Impact: Stronger passwordless authentication reduces the risk of credential theft and phishing attacks.

Continued migration from control panel to settings

Microsoft continues its gradual removal of Control Panel elements, migrating more settings to the modern Settings app. System settings like networking and device management are now accessible only through the new interface.

Impact: IT departments may need to update workflows and inform users about where to find certain settings in the new interface.

Features removed or deprecated in Windows 11 24H2

WordPad removal

WordPad is being fully removed from Windows 11 24H2. Microsoft is no longer developing this lightweight text editor, and it will no longer be included in future releases.

Impact for users: Users who relied on WordPad for simple text editing will need to switch to alternatives like Notepad, Microsoft Word, or LibreOffice.

Cortana app

The Cortana app has been fully removed from Windows 11. With the rise of Windows Copilot and other AI-driven tools, Cortana is no longer part of the OS.

Impact for users: Users who previously used Cortana for tasks like reminders and voice commands will need to transition to Windows Copilot or other alternatives.

Tablet mode

The traditional Tablet Mode introduced in Windows 10 has been fully phased out. Windows 11 focuses on auto-adjustments and gestures for touchscreen devices.

Impact for users: Users with 2-in-1 devices will still benefit from touchscreen enhancements, but without the distinct Tablet Mode experience.

Live Tiles, a feature from earlier Windows versions, have been completely removed. Windows 11 focuses on pinned apps and widgets for real-time information.

Impact for users: Users who liked Live Tiles’ dynamic updates will need to rely on widgets for similar functionality.

Quick status on lock screen

The ability to show Quick Status (e.g., weather, calendar notifications) on the lock screen has been deprecated.

Impact for users: Those who used this feature will need to rely on widgets or notifications within the unlocked interface.

Internet Explorer fully disabled

Internet Explorer is now fully disabled, even for legacy compatibility purposes. Users needing to access legacy websites must use IE Mode in Microsoft Edge.

Impact for admins: IT teams must ensure that legacy applications relying on Internet Explorer are compatible with IE Mode or plan to migrate away from older systems.

Snipping Tool unification

The classic Snipping Tool and Snip & Sketch have been merged into a single tool. Some legacy features of the original Snipping Tool are no longer available.

Impact for users: Long-time users of the Snipping Tool may notice some minor feature changes but still retain core screenshot capabilities with modern improvements.

Conclusion

Windows 11 24H2 brings a range of exciting new features while continuing to phase out legacy components. From native support for compressed files to RGB lighting control and enhanced backup options, users will notice improved usability. Meanwhile, administrators will benefit from better patch management tools, security enhancements, and the ongoing shift away from legacy apps like WordPad and Internet Explorer.

As always, it’s important to review these changes before updating, particularly for organisations, to ensure workflows remain uninterrupted and compatible with the latest version of Windows.