Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 setup tweak is small in appearance but significant in practice: after months of tightening the Out-of-Box Experience, the company is now letting some users skip post-install updates during initial setup. The change, spotted in recent Insider builds, adds a “Update Later” button to the Windows 11 setup screen that previously required users to install all available updates before reaching the desktop.

The Change in Detail

The new option appears during the Windows 11 Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE) when the system checks for critical updates. Instead of forcing users to wait for updates to download and install, the “Update Later” button allows them to proceed directly to the desktop. This is a reversal from recent Windows 11 builds where Microsoft had removed the skip option entirely, requiring all users to install updates before completing setup.

The feature is currently visible in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5001 (ge_release) and newer builds in the Canary and Dev channels. It’s not yet confirmed for the stable release, but given its nature as a quality-of-life improvement, it will likely roll out to all users in a future feature update.

Why Microsoft Changed Course

Microsoft’s original decision to force updates during setup was driven by security concerns. New devices often ship with older builds that lack critical security patches. By requiring updates before first use, Microsoft aimed to reduce the number of vulnerable machines connecting to the internet. However, this approach frustrated users who faced long wait times—sometimes hours—before they could even start using their new PC.

The “Update Later” button represents a compromise. Users who want a secure, up-to-date system can still choose to install updates during setup. Those who prioritize getting to the desktop quickly can skip the process and handle updates later via Windows Update. This flexibility addresses a common complaint while still encouraging updates for those who want them.

Practical Impact on Users

For most users, the change will be a welcome relief. Setting up a new Windows 11 device can be a lengthy process, and mandatory updates added significant time. Power users who prefer to configure their system first and update later will especially appreciate the option.

However, the change also carries risks. Users who skip updates during setup will be running an older, potentially vulnerable build until they manually check for updates. Microsoft’s decision to allow this bypass means that some devices may remain unpatched for longer periods, especially if users forget to update after setup.

Security Implications

Security experts have mixed reactions. On one hand, the forced update policy was a strong nudge toward good security hygiene. On the other, it created a poor user experience that could lead to frustration with Windows 11 overall. By offering a choice, Microsoft balances security with usability.

It’s worth noting that the “Update Later” button doesn’t remove the update check entirely. The system still downloads and prepares updates in the background; the button simply allows users to defer installation. This means that when users eventually open Windows Update, the updates should be ready to install quickly.

How It Compares to Previous Versions

Windows 10 allowed users to skip updates during setup, and many users relied on this to speed up deployment. Windows 11 initially followed the same pattern, but Microsoft tightened the process in late 2023 and early 2024, removing the skip option in several Insider builds. The current change restores the flexibility while keeping the update prompt visible.

What This Means for IT Admins

For enterprise and IT administrators, the change could complicate deployment scenarios. Organizations that rely on automated setup processes may need to adjust their deployment scripts to account for the new option. However, most enterprise deployments use customized images or tools like Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) that bypass the consumer OOBE entirely, so the impact should be minimal.

The Bigger Picture

This change is part of a broader trend in Windows 11 development: Microsoft is increasingly listening to user feedback and adjusting its more aggressive policies. Recent examples include the return of the “Never combine” taskbar option and improvements to the context menu. The “Update Later” button is another sign that Microsoft is willing to compromise on security in favor of user experience—as long as the security baseline remains high.

What Users Should Do

If you’re setting up a new Windows 11 device and see the “Update Later” button, consider your own risk tolerance. If you plan to use the device immediately for sensitive tasks like banking or work, it’s safer to install updates during setup. If you’re just exploring or setting up a secondary device, skipping updates is reasonable—but set a reminder to run Windows Update soon after.

Availability and Timeline

The feature is currently in Insider testing. Based on Microsoft’s typical release cadence, it could arrive in a stable release within the next few months, possibly as part of the Windows 11 2024 Update (version 24H2). Keep an eye on Windows Update for the change to appear on your own system.

Conclusion

Microsoft’s “Update Later” button for Windows 11 setup is a small but meaningful change. It addresses a common pain point without completely abandoning security best practices. Whether you’re a home user eager to start using your new PC or an IT pro managing multiple deployments, this update brings welcome flexibility. Just remember: skipping updates now means you’ll need to install them later. Don’t put it off indefinitely.