Microsoft has re-enabled clean installations of Windows 11 25H2 via teh Windows Media Creation Tool, offering users a method to bypass the initial rollout through Windows Update. The move comes as some 25H2 features require a fresh start for full functionality, and addresses recent reports of instability with the tool following the release of the update [[1]]. While the tool’s version number remains unchanged, Microsoft asserts that bugs impacting Windows 11 and 10 installations have been resolved [[3]].
Microsoft now allows users to install Windows 11 25H2 via the Windows Media Creation Tool.
Microsoft has updated its Media Creation Tool to enable installations of Windows 11 25H2, including the December 2025 Patch Tuesday updates. This restores the ability to perform a clean installation using a USB drive or other bootable media.
Most Recent Version
Earlier this month, Microsoft released security updates for both Windows 11 and Windows 10 and began the broad rollout of Windows 11 25H2 through Windows Update. Users could initiate the update by enabling a setting. However, those preferring a fresh start can now utilize the Media Creation Tool.
The tool automatically downloads the latest Windows images from Microsoft’s update servers, currently including update KB5072033 for Windows 11. Certain features within 25H2 require a clean install to become active, making the Media Creation Tool a necessary option for some users. This move underscores Microsoft’s commitment to providing users with control over their operating system experience.
Unchanged Serial Number
The tool’s version number remains unchanged at 10.0.26100.7019, despite previous issues following the release of 25H2. The update initially introduced bugs within the Media Creation Tool affecting both Windows 11 and Windows 10, a concern amplified by the recent end of support for Windows 10.
According to Microsoft, these issues have now been resolved. The tool is available through Microsoft’s official download pages for both Windows 11 and Windows 10.
