A new Windows 11 feature update – version 24H2 – will be released at UCT on Monday, 23 February 2026. The update includes performance improvements for existing features and capabilities as well as security enhancements and new features.

What do I need to do?

Whether you’re working on campus or remotely, you need to upgrade your Windows 11 version on your UCT computer on that day or soon thereafter.

  • Connect to the UCT network. If you’re working remotely, first connect to the UCT VPN.
  • Click Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.  
  • Select Check for updates.   
  • A Windows 11, version 24H2 feature update is displayed.   
  • Click Download & install to start the installation.
  • Once the installation is completed, restart your computer immediately. 

If you do not connect to the UCT network (either on campus or via VPN), the update will install automatically at a later stage once you’re connected.  

Update size and installation time

The Windows 11 24H2 update is significantly larger than previous cumulative updates, as it includes substantial system file replacements and new features contributing to its increased size. This may cause the download and installation to take longer than usual.

If you’re working remotely, we recommend downloading and installing the update at a time that will not impact your workday.

For those using mobile data, rather connect to the VPN after midnight so that you use your night-time data allocation.

Connect to the UCT network monthly to keep Windows updated

In addition to this major update, smaller Windows updates are released monthly. Before releasing these to UCT users, ICTS first tests these to ensure that they don’t cause issues in our environment.

To receive these updates and keep your UCT Windows licence active, please connect to the UCT network (either on campus or via the UCT VPN) at least once a month.

Need help?

Should you have any queries regarding the upgrade, please contact the IT Helpdesk by logging an online call, sending an email to icts-helpdesk@uct.ac.za, or phoning (021) 650-4500.