Windows 11 24H2 - What's New?

I just got my hands on the latest Windows 11 update, version 24H2, and I couldn't be more excited to share what's new! Microsoft has really stepped up their game with this release, packing in features that are bound to make our lives as sysadmins and IT pros a whole lot easier.

Enhanced LAPS with Automatic Account Management

First off, the Windows Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS) has received some much-needed improvements. The new automatic account management feature simplifies how we handle local admin passwords, making our systems more secure without the extra hassle.

Personal Data Encryption (PDE)

Security is always a top priority, and the introduction of Personal Data Encryption means our users' Documents, Desktop, and Pictures folders are now protected with user-authenticated encryption. It's an added layer of security that gives peace of mind.

App Control for Business

Formerly known as Windows Defender Application Control, App Control for Business is here to better protect our digital assets from malicious code. It's more streamlined and business-friendly, making it easier to implement across our networks.

SMB Protocol Overhaul

For those of us who deal with network configurations, the numerous updates to the SMB protocol are a game-changer. From firewall rule tweaks to SMB over QUIC support, these enhancements offer more flexibility and security in managing file shares.

Rust in the Kernel and SHA-3 Support

Yes, you read that right—Rust is now part of the Windows kernel! This means more secure and efficient system operations. Plus, with SHA-3 support, we're getting stronger cryptographic hash functions for better data integrity.

Connectivity and Audio Improvements

With support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth LE Audio, staying connected is faster and more efficient than ever. The new controls for app access to Wi-Fi networks also give us better oversight of network security.

Quality of Life Updates

Beyond the big-ticket items, there are plenty of smaller enhancements that make daily tasks smoother. A scrollable Quick Settings menu, native support for creating 7-zip and TAR archives, and energy-saving features all contribute to a better user experience.

Why This Matters

These updates aren't just bells and whistles—they're tools that can help us improve security, efficiency, and user satisfaction across our organizations. I highly recommend starting a targeted deployment to see how these features can benefit your environment.