Microsoft will introduce checkpoint updates for Windows 11 – this will reduce the size of packages and speed up installation

Microsoft has announced a change in the distribution of cumulative updates for the Windows 11 operating system. Starting with Windows 11 24H2, users will receive so-called “checkpoint cumulative updates”, which are expected to be more compact and stable, and will also install faster and will not require any action from users or IT administrators.

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Essentially, cumulative checkpoint updates will include changes that have occurred since the last checkpoint, rather than since the RTM build of the OS was released. According to Microsoft, this approach will allow users to save time and space on their computer disk. This process may involve creating multiple checkpoints throughout the build’s lifecycle. Ultimately, Microsoft wants to see a reduction in the volume of update packages downloaded to Windows devices, as well as a more sustainable distribution of updates within organizations and a more efficient distribution of annual feature updates.

Administrators who receive updates from the Microsoft Update Catalog will see changes to the view of available packages. Monthly updates may contain multiple packages, one for each checkpoint, as well as an additional file containing cumulative updates from the most recent checkpoint. They will need to be installed sequentially using the available deployment tools.

Some users have already expressed concerns that the new update distribution scheme will further complicate the already complex update system. It is possible that it will be more difficult for users to roll back the state of the OS if problems arise after installing a package. In addition, there is always the possibility of conflicts between different checkpoint updates or with existing system configurations.

Concerns aside, the benefits of smaller, faster updates outweigh the potential downsides. In addition, Microsoft intends to make the transition to the new scheme as smooth as possible. Users who want to try the new feature can join the Windows Insider program on the Dev channel and install Windows Insider Preview build number 26120.1252.