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Windows 11 26H1: A Simple Guide for Non‑Experts

January 13, 2026
8 min read

What is Windows 11 26H1, in simple words?

The name 26H1 looks complicated but is easy to decode:

  • 26 = year 2026
  • H1 = first half of the year

So Windows 11 26H1 is a big update for Windows 11, not a totally new system.

  • You stay on Windows 11
  • New features are added
  • Security is improved
  • The look and feel is adjusted in some places

The update will arrive through Windows Update, similar to other big Windows updates.

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Do I need a new PC for this?

In most cases: no.

You basically need:

  • a PC that already runs Windows 11 today
  • modern security features like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot (standard on most newer devices)

Possible problems:

  • very old CPUs that only run Windows 11 via unofficial tricks
  • exotic, old hardware with outdated drivers

If your PC officially supports Windows 11, chances are high that it will also get the 26H1 update without issues.

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What will likely change for normal users?

1. More AI features (not just “Copilot”)

Microsoft will push more Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Windows.

In practice this might look like:

  • suggestions inside File Explorer, e.g. “You probably need this file”
  • help texts in Settings that explain what switches actually do
  • small automations that shorten repetitive tasks

Important: You do not have to use all of this. Many of these features can be limited or turned off.

2. Better security in the background

You will not see most of it, but it matters:

  • stronger protection against viruses, ransomware and phishing
  • stricter rules for risky apps and drivers
  • safer default settings for network and sign-in

Goal: Your PC is better protected out-of-the-box without you having to understand every detail.

3. Small changes in design and handling

Do not expect a totally new desktop, more like polish:

  • cleaner menus
  • more consistent windows and dialogs
  • slightly better behaviour with multiple monitors

Some buttons or menus might move a little. Usually you get used to it after a few days.

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Will my apps and games still work?

In general: yes, your apps and games are supposed to keep working.

However, there can be exceptions:

  • very old apps from the Windows XP era
  • “tuning tools” and aggressive security suites that hook deep into the system
  • software that depends on old, unmaintained drivers

Tips:

  • Use current versions of your apps wherever possible
  • For critical tools (for work or school), check the vendor’s website to see if they are tested on current Windows 11 versions

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How do I prepare my PC for 26H1?

1. Clean up and update

  • Run Windows Update and install current updates
  • Update key apps (browser, Office, security software)
  • Remove old “PC tuning” tools – they cause more trouble than they solve

2. Make a backup

This is the most important step.

At minimum:

  • copy important files (documents, photos, videos) to an external drive or cloud storage

Better:

  • create a full system image with a backup program

This way you are safe if something goes wrong during the update.

3. Check free disk space

  • Open File Explorer, right‑click your system drive (usually C:)
  • Make sure you have at least 20–30 GB free

If space is low:

  • empty the Recycle Bin
  • clean up the Downloads folder
  • uninstall apps you no longer use

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Should I install the update immediately?

Roughly, you have three options:

1.Install right away

- if you are comfortable with tech

- if you have solid backups

2.Wait a few weeks (recommended for most people)

- Microsoft fixes early bugs in that time

- you can watch online whether lots of users report issues

3.Wait longer

- if your PC is critical for work or school

- if you depend on very old software or hardware

Large feature updates can usually be delayed for some time. You do not have to join in on day one.

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What about privacy and AI?

AI features always raise privacy questions.

Practical steps:

1.Check settings

- After the update, go to Settings → Privacy & security

- Look at which diagnostic and AI features are enabled

2.Allow only what you need

- Turn off what you do not use or do not feel comfortable with

3.Use a Microsoft account consciously

- It has benefits (sync, Store, OneDrive)

- If you prefer less data in the cloud, you can use Windows more locally, with some limitations

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Quick checklist: Am I ready for Windows 11 26H1?

You are in good shape if you can honestly say yes to all of these:

  • My PC is already running Windows 11 stably
  • I have installed the usual cumulative updates
  • My most important apps and devices currently work without problems
  • I have a backup of my important data
  • I know that I can delay the update a bit if I want

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Conclusion

Windows 11 26H1 is not something to be afraid of. It is a larger update that aims to make Windows more modern, more secure and a bit “smarter”.

If your PC is healthy today, you have a backup, and you do not rush to install on day one, the risk is low. You do not need deep technical knowledge – a bit of preparation and common sense is enough to let 26H1 install quietly in the background and get on with your normal work.