Windows 10, versions 2004, 20H2, and 21H1 share a common core operating system with an identical set of system files. Therefore, the new features in Windows 10, version 21H1 are included in the latest monthly quality update for Windows 10, version 2004 and Windows 10, version 20H2, but are in an inactive and dormant state. These new features will remain dormant until they are turned on through the “enablement package,” a small, quick-to-install “master switch” that activates the Windows 10, version 21H1 features.

The enablement package is a great option for installing a scoped feature update like Windows 10, version 21H1 as it enables an update from version 2004 or 20H2 to version 21H1 with a single restart, reducing update downtime. This enables devices to take advantage of new features now. For version 2004 and 20H2 devices that receive updates directly from Windows Update, devices automatically get the enablement package by installing the feature update to Windows 10, version 21H1.

If a device is updating from Windows 10, version 1909 or an earlier version, this feature update enablement package cannot be manually installed. Instead, it is bundled and automatically included with the feature update to Windows 10, version 21H1. Note the installation time is not reduced in this scenario.

Release Channel

Available

Next Step

Windows Update and Microsoft Update

Yes

None. This update will be downloaded and installed automatically from Windows Update. The update is named Feature Update to Windows 10, version 21H1.

Microsoft Update Catalog

No

This update is only available through the other release channels.

Windows Server Update Services (WSUS)

Yes

This update will automatically synchronize with WSUS if you configure Products and Classifications as follows:

Product: Windows 10

Classification: Upgrades

Before updating to Windows 10, version 21H1 using an enablement package, you must be running Windows 10, version 2004 or 20H2. You must have the following prerequisites installed before applying this update:

Servicing stack update for Windows 10, version 2004: September 8, 2020 or a later servicing stack update

May 11, 2021 - KB5003173 (OS Build 19041.985) or a later cumulative update

You must restart your device after you apply this update.

This update does not replace any previously released update.

Learn about the terminology that Microsoft uses to describe software updates.