Microsoft has initiated the deployment of its recent Windows 11 update for 2024 — albeit in stages.
The update, labeled as version 24H2, unveils Microsoft’s fresh AI functionalities on chosen PCs. Furthermore, this annual update introduces a revamped appearance for the File Explorer, the elevated command for boosting privileges in a standard console session, fresh features and utilities for IT squads, security enhancements, and more.
Refined Features for File Explorer and Quick Settings
With the latest update, Windows 11 now accommodates Wi-Fi 7, empowering users to share Wi-Fi network details via QR codes.
Additional enhancements incorporate:
- Scrollable display for quick settings: A novel scrollable view for quick settings streamlines customizing the list.
- Innovative labels and functionalities: These attributes are now accessible in the File Explorer, enriching its capabilities. This encompasses a visual representation of the present file’s location.
- Augmented hearing assistance: Support for sophisticated assistive hearing gadgets, particularly Bluetooth Low Energy Audio devices, has expanded to compatible PCs. Additionally, Microsoft broadened the “Bluetooth & Devices” settings section, incorporating battery life and connectivity status indicators as well as audio adjustments for connected devices.
- Energy-conservation mode: Accessible within quick settings, the energy-saving mode can be configured to diminish power consumption once the battery reaches a specific threshold, or activated or deactivated manually.
- Adaptive brightness control based on content: With this feature, specific devices will automatically dim or brighten sections of the display depending on the activity when connected to a power source, facilitating energy preservation.
- Modernized Microsoft Teams functionality: Seamless transition between corporate and personal accounts in Microsoft Teams without terminating the application.
- Enhanced voice clarity: A function that minimizes background noise and distortions during calls, extending beyond Surface devices to additional models.
- Enhanced lock-screen options: Users now possess extra choices for exhibiting widgets on lock screens, coupled with more personalization options for lock screens.
- New Copilot AI functionalities: These include Windows 11 Copilot + PCs integration of Live Captions, Windows Studio Effects for video calls, picture editing, and more.
SEE: Microsoft’s Secure Future Initiative report emphasizes the company’s commitment to intensify internal security endeavors following its involvement in a U.S. government breach.
User-Friendly Sudo Command Now in Windows
Software developers can now leverage the broad availability of the sudo command within the command-line interface. This capability allows for executing privileged commands even in a standard console session.
The subsequent functionalities of version 24H2 could be particularly beneficial to IT teams and security units:
- Windows Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS) now incorporates a novel automatic account management feature and policy enhancements.
- Inclusion of Rust support in the Windows kernel.
Impressive Security Implementations in Version 24H2
Among the most apparent security modifications is a notification alerting users to nearby Wi-Fi networks.
New privacy configurations enable users to personalize which applications have permission to access Wi-Fi networks in their vicinity. For instance, a notification will emerge when a new application attempts to link to location services. The primary goal is to prevent apps from determining the device’s precise location without the user’s authorization.
Further security updates introduced along with Windows 11 version 24H2 encompass:
- Windows 11 now supports SHA-3, a NIST-standardized cryptographic hash function that contributes to multiple security initiatives.
- Folder-level encryption of data through Personal Data Encryption for folders.
- Deployment of App Control for Business to defend against malicious code.
- Utilization of Windows protected print mode to ensure the confidentiality of print tasks.
A comprehensive summary of modifications in the Windows 11 2024 update can be accessed here.
Acquiring Windows 11, Version 24H2
Professional IT users operating on Windows 11 versions 22H2 and 23H2 for corporate use can access the update through Windows Server Update Services, including Configuration Manager, as well as via Windows Update for Business and the Microsoft 365 admin center.
Personal devices running on Windows 11 versions 22H2 and 23H2 are now eligible for the update rollout starting today. Nevertheless, the process is gradual. Users who opted for the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” box in the Windows Update settings will be among the first to experience the enhancements.
To verify eligibility for the update, navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates, or utilize the Windows Update shortcut.
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