
Microsoft Warns Millions Of Windows Users—Do Not Install This Update On Your PC
In a surprise move, Microsoft has issued a stark warning to millions of its Windows users. In no uncertain terms, the tech giant is telling its customers not to install a particular update on their PCs.
The update in question is related to the October and November 2024 security patches. According to Microsoft’s documentation, if you use a USB or drive to install Windows 11 version 24H2 with these updates included, your device may end up in a state where it cannot accept further Windows security updates.
This phenomenon only occurs when users create their own Windows 11 external media copy to install the OS with newer updates. It’s not a problem that affects devices receiving the October or November 2024 security updates via Windows Update.
Microsoft has been battling an array of issues with its latest major feature update, which was released earlier this year. This includes problems related to certain PC brands and software configurations being taken off the update list due to conflicts causing crashes or worse.
The company is currently working on a permanent fix for the issue at hand and recommends that media-based Windows 11 24H2 installations use the December 2024 security update, released on December 10, to avoid subsequent updating problems.
In an attempt to mitigate the fallout from this issue, Microsoft has also provided guidance on how users can recover if they find themselves in the problematic state. Those affected will need to download the Media Creation tool, create a fresh media file, and reinstall the OS.
It’s unclear what impact this latest warning may have on Windows 11 adoption rates, which have been stagnant of late. However, it does add to the growing list of issues surrounding Microsoft’s flagship operating system.
This is not the first time Microsoft has had to deal with controversy over its updates. In recent weeks, there have been numerous reports of brands and software configurations being taken off the Windows Update list due to conflicts causing crashes or worse.
As the year draws to a close, it remains to be seen how this latest issue will affect the company’s plans for 2025.
Source: www.forbes.com