For the full details on reverse and forward differentials, and the model introduced in Windows 10, version 1809, see Windows Updates using forward and reverse differentials. Specifically, we introduced a model where reverse and forward differentials can be combined to create a smaller cumulative update package compared to the previous express technology. In that release, we introduced significant changes in how we package a cumulative update. To explain, let’s go back to Windows 10, version 1809. But what are reverse differentials and why don’t we need these anymore? How? Through more efficient packaging and removal of reverse differentials from the cumulative update package. The cumulative update size in Windows 11 is approximately 40% smaller than the same set of quality and security updates would have been packaged for Windows 10.
This includes a ~40% size reduction in the cumulative update package size, which means there is less to download for end users and commercial organizations alike! Let's take a closer look. Windows 11 has a redesigned cumulative update approach with better fundamentals to help users install the latest security and quality updates faster and more reliably.
