As the release of Windows 11 version 25H2 approaches, Microsoft has quietly updated its Media Creation Tool (MCT). The new version now lets users download a more up-to-date Windows 11 24H2 ISO, which already includes the latest security patches.

This is especially useful if you’re planning a clean installation, since you’ll avoid the hassle of installing multiple cumulative updates right after setup.

A fresher ISO based on the September 2025 Patch Tuesday

Previously, the Media Creation Tool was still offering an ISO based on build 26100.4349 (June 2025). That meant fresh installs required several updates via Windows Update before the system was fully secure.

The new release fixes this by bundling build 26100.6584 (KB5065426, September 2025 Patch Tuesday). The benefits:

  • ✅ Faster installation.
  • ✅ Fewer updates after setup.
  • ✅ A more secure system right out of the box.

Bug alert: Media Creation Tool fails to launch on Windows 10

There’s one catch: many users report that the updated Media Creation Tool won’t launch properly on Windows 10. It briefly opens, then closes immediately without any error message.

We confirmed the same behavior in our own testing. Microsoft has yet to comment on whether a fix is coming.

Workarounds you can use now:

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These tools remain reliable and give you more control over the installation process.

How to check your Media Creation Tool version

If you’ve already downloaded the tool and want to confirm whether it’s the latest build:

  1. Right-click MediaCreationTool.exe.
  2. Select Properties.
  3. Go to the Details tab.
  4. Look for the File version line.

👉 The newest release shows 10.0.26100.1, which corresponds to the Windows 11 build 26100.6584. If you see a lower version number, re-download the tool from Microsoft’s official site.

Bottom line

The updated Media Creation Tool makes clean installs of Windows 11 smoother by providing an ISO that’s already patched to the latest build. However, if you’re still on Windows 10, the current bug may prevent the tool from working. In that case, downloading the ISO directly and using Rufus or Ventoy to prepare your installation media is the best alternative.

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