Windows 10: Windows 11 updates to 23H2 then goes back to 21H2

I keep updating to windows 11 23H2 it gets to 100% restarts then it shows the windows 11 loading animation then restarts to the windows 10 loading animation even though im on Windows 11 then it loads into windows 11 21H2 i have already ran the windows update troubleshooter and it said it made changes but that made no difference im not sure why it has the windows 10 loading animation but it also has the windows ten volume bar System info: 8 GB of ram, Intel Core i7-9750H CPU NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti

:)

 

Cannot install Windows 11 23H2

The build number 22631.2506 implies the device has been upgraded to 23H2 already.

Here are the version/build numbers for Windows 11.

• 22000.xxx is 21H2
  
• 22621.xxx is 22H2
  
• 22631.xxx is 23H2
  

Your system is fully up-to-date. What else you're looking for?

//I'm going to just assume 23H2 doesn't actually exist yet and count it as vaporware.//

No, it's not.

Read more about the enablement package you installed.

KB5027397: Feature update to Windows 11, version 23H2 by using an enablement package

 

Update Failed Install from Windows 11 21H2 to 23H2

Hi

Welcome to Microsoft community.

It seems you've encountered quite a challenge updating from Windows 11 21H2 to 23H2. The error codes you've listed, 0x8007042b and 0x80070003, are generally associated with issues in the update process itself, possibly due to file corruption, service interruptions, or conflicts with background processes. You've already taken some good initial steps with SFC, DISM, and the troubleshooter. Since those haven't resolved the issue, let's explore a few more steps you can take to attempt the update successfully:

1. Clean Boot and Update: Perform a clean boot to start Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This can help eliminate software conflicts that occur when you install a Windows update. After performing a clean boot, try updating to 23H2 again.
   
   Disclaimer: A “clean boot” starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. It helps to determine whether a background service is interfering with your game or program and to isolate the cause of a problem.
   
   These steps of "clean boot" might look complicated at first glance. However, to avoid any trouble for you, please follow them in order and step-by step so that it will help you get back on track.
   
2. Check for Malware: Sometimes, malware can interfere with updates. Run a thorough antivirus scan using your preferred software or Windows Security to ensure your system is clean.
   
3. Update Drivers and BIOS: Outdated drivers or BIOS can sometimes cause issues with updates. Visit your PC manufacturer’s website and update all relevant drivers, especially chipset and BIOS, to the latest versions.
   
   Disclaimer: Microsoft provides no assurances and/or warranties, implied or otherwise, and is not responsible for the information you receive from the third-party linked sites or any support related to technology.
   
   If you are going to modify BIOS Settings, please back up all your personal files first to ensure you do not lose data.
   
4. Use the Windows 11 ISO File: Since you mentioned not having tried the repair using the Windows ISO, this could be a strong next step. Download the Windows 11 23H2 ISO from the official Microsoft website. Then, you can either mount the ISO and run the setup from within Windows to attempt an in-place upgrade or create a bootable USB drive with the Media Creation Tool. An in-place upgrade can repair the OS while preserving your files, settings, and applications.
   
5. Temporarily Disable Security Software: Sometimes, security software can interfere with the update process. Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus or security software you may have installed, then try the update again. Remember to re-enable your security software immediately after.
   
   Disclaimer: Temporarily turn off antivirus protection. However, keep in mind that if you do so, your device may be vulnerable to threats. So please turn it on immediately once issue fixed.
   
6. Check Disk Space: Ensure you have enough disk space available for the update. Windows Update needs a significant amount of free space to download and install major updates.
   
7. Manually Reset Windows Update Components: If the troubleshooter didn’t fix the issue, manually resetting the Windows Update components can sometimes resolve stubborn update problems. This involves stopping the Windows Update service, renaming the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders, and then restarting the service.
   

If, after trying these steps, you still can't update to Windows 11 23H2, it might be worth considering a clean installation of Windows 11 23H2, though this should be a last resort as it will remove all your files, settings, and applications. Always ensure you have a complete backup of your important data before attempting a clean install.

Let me know if you need further assistance.

Best regards

Derrick Qian | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

 

21H2 to 23H2?

If I were to update from 21H2 to 23H2, does that include all the cumulative and security updates in between these two or will Windows install them separately?