Microsoft has warned that a forced update is on the way for Windows 11 21H2 and 22H2 users still clinging to the past.

The warning applies to the remaining users of Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise editions of Windows 11 21H2 and Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 22H2. Devices managed by IT are exempt from the attention of Microsoft's updater.

The final security update for these devices will come on October 8, 2024 – less than a month away – after which will all drop out of support. This means no more monthly security or preview updates.

In its message center, Microsoft posted: "To help keep you protected and productive, Windows Update will automatically initiate a feature update for Windows 11 Home and Pro devices that are not managed by IT departments when these are nearing end of servicing."

In other words, customers who are holding off updating will be able to hold off no more – Microsoft expects users to be on Windows 11 23H2. The company said: "Moving to Windows 11, version 23H2 keeps your device supported and receiving monthly updates that are critical to security and ecosystem health."