How to get 21H1 but not 21H2

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I’m running Windows 10 v2004. I’m finally getting around to installing 21H1 but can’t seem to get it. The new 21H2 is out, and that is all that Windows Update is offering me. Is it still possible to upgrade to 21H1 (without a full reinstall or anything like that), and if so, how?

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See Susan Bradley’s recommendations for setting TargetReleaseVersion here:

Consumer and home users

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Topic: 6000003 Registry keys and group policy settings to select specific feature @ AskWoody

The downloadable registry keys are there for your use.  Holler if you have any additional questions.

Susan Bradley Patch Lady/Prudent patcher

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Thanks for this question and the prompt replies! I was able to find it with only one search from the Alert of 22 November and then one click to Topic 6000003.

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Thanks so much for your helpful replies! I ran out of time to run the upgrade but hope to give it a go very shortly. (I’m the original poster.)

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Thanks you Susan, that worked great!

• I downloaded the .reg file for 21H1 and  double-clicked it.
• I OK’d all the warnings and it was installed.
• I then went to Windows Update, “Check For Updates”
• This time, instead of 21H2, I was offered 21H1 — perfect!
• I went ahead and installed it successfully.

Your help is much appreciated.

Gary Z

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Hi,

I’m getting ready to set my Windows 10 Pro lap top from 2004 to 21H1 utilizing the “Target Release Version” Method. I know I have till the 14th, I just want to make sure I have my back up and system image and repair disc done. My question is: What updates need to be done before I change the “Target Release Version” to 21H1? I haven’t done any of the November updates yet, I was waiting for the Defcon-4  recommendation. Can I update to 21H1 without the November updates? …OR…Should I wait a bit longer for the Defcon-4 notice, even though I’ll be past support??

Thank you

TJ

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This month is DEFCON-3. There won’t be a DEFCON-4.
It doesn’t make any difference it you install the 2004 Nov updates first, then upgrade to 21H1, or you go directly to 21H1. You will end up with the same version either way.

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PKCano,

Thanks for your quick response!

One other question: I just purchased a new Lenovo Legion 5 gaming computer, It came with Windows 10 Pro, I am not sure which version (20H2 or 21H1). Do you have a list or suggestions about how to go about setting up/steps when I turn the computer on for the 1st time?

I want to make sure I can change the windows update settings to Configure Automatic Updates = Enabled, value = 2 (notify download/install and the Target Release Version before windows does it’s updating. Not sure if I should keep the internet off until I change these settings? Do I need to log in to Microsoft account?

If you have any advice about settings regarding setting up an Administrator account vs Administrator and a User account. The computer is only used by me.

If you have advice about downloading/updating drivers and BIOS through Microsoft or use Lenovo Vantage (I’ve been told to use Lenovo Vantage). In the past I’ve not always updated the drivers, nor the BIOS, with the idea “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it??

Any other helpful hints for setup and security settings?

I appreciate your feedback and time!
Thank you,

TJ

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Yes, I have some suggestions.
When you turn the computer on for the first time, be sure it DOES NOT connect to your network/Internet if you want to use a LOCAL account. If the computer connects to the network/Internet, it will force you to create a Microsoft account.

It will try to tell you that the Local account is inferior (NOT). During the (disconnected) setup, say “no” when it wants to connect to the Internet to look for updates. You can update later after you go through the Windows Update settings to gain some control. Also say “no” to all the telemetry requests.

Once you get to the Desktop, go through the Settings App and adjust it for the amount of privacy/telemetry you are comfortable with. AKB2000016 Guide for Windows Update Settings for Win10 is a good place to get information on Windows Update settings. The screenshots at the bottom show where the settings are in Group Policy and the Registry.

After you have gone through the Settings App, and other settings in the Control Panel and the GUI, connect to the Internet. Windows should activate automatically and you will be offered the updates to bring you up to the current version.

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PKCano,

Thanks, I do have a Microsoft account (I think). Does it matter if you use the Microsoft account or not? I think by keeping the computer from connecting to the internet is the safest way to set up the computer settings. So, there is no advantage to the Microsoft account vs the local way you suggest?

If you have any advice about settings regarding setting up an Administrator account vs Administrator and a User account. The computer is only used by me.

If you have advice about downloading/updating drivers and BIOS through Microsoft or use Lenovo Vantage (I’ve been told to use Lenovo Vantage). In the past I’ve not always updated the drivers, nor the BIOS, with the idea “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it??

Any other helpful hints for setup and security settings?

Thank you very much, I have been following your “ABK2000016 Guide for Windows Update Settings for Win 10”, since I signed up for Ask Woody site. Your posts and knowledge are very helpful!!

Thanks

TJ

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I use a Local Account as I feel it’s a bit more private (understatement). But that is up to you, if you don’t mind logging in to MS every time you use the PC.
I also use an Administrative account, as the Standard account is more limiting than I like. I am forever fooling with Group Policy, the Registry, etc. An I am security aware. Again, that’s a matter of choice.

IMO The best place to get your drivers is the PC’s OEM or the device mfg. I look for driver/BIOS updates when there is a security issue or a hardware problem. The key is being aware when either arises.

A lot of the Users here like WUMgr for controlling Windows Update. But I prefer using as few third-party “manipulators” as possible b/c I like to know what changes have been made to the system (in case I have to reverse them). But again, that is a matter of choice.

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