Microsoft has officially released its much-anticipated 2024 update for Windows 11, labelled as Windows 11 24H2, on the 1st of October. This latest iteration promises enhancements in the AI feature, Copilot, a refreshed File Explorer, and improved performance and stability, alongside other advancements. However, the update has been met with mixed reviews due to various bugs affecting its rollout.
For some users, the update is appearing on their Windows Update screen and can be installed from there, while others can manually download it from Microsoft's dedicated Download Windows 11 page via the Installation Assistant, installation media, or as an ISO file. Despite the availability, Microsoft has advised caution due to a series of glitches reported by users and documented internally, leading the company to withhold the update for certain problematic PCs that may encounter recurring blue screen errors and other issues.
Among the most prominent issues users have reported is a problem with the System File Checker (SFC), a tool that scans for corrupted system files and repairs them. In the Windows 11 24H2 update, incorrect hash values are leading SFC to recognise certain files as corrupted, thus causing a loop of false positives.
Another significant glitch involves the creation of an undeletable 8.63GB update cache, which is incorrectly reported as still occupying space even after an attempted deletion. The error is a known bug, and Microsoft has confirmed that the cache is actually being deleted despite reports stating otherwise.
Gamers using the Easy Anti-Cheat online gaming app are also facing problems. Due to compatibility issues, users, particularly those with Intel's Alder Lake and vPro platforms, are experiencing the notorious Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) when using this app. Microsoft is working with the developers to resolve this conflict.
Further, the update has brought to light several blue screen issues, notably with Intel Smart Sound Technology drivers on Intel 11th Gen Core processors. Users with certain Western Digital SSDs and those with Z890 motherboards from brands like MSI and Asus have also reported similar problems.
Additionally, the update has caused the mouse pointer to disappear intermittently in Chromium-based apps, such as Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge, when interacting with text input fields, though a workaround exists for this issue.
Some users have encountered internet connectivity issues where PCs fail to receive a valid IP address despite successful Ethernet or Wi-Fi connections. This can sometimes be resolved by switching from a dynamic to a static IP address, but not always.
Also documented are problems with fingerprint sensors becoming unresponsive post-update, complicating the login process. Furthermore, the update has disrupted the Windows clipboard history function for some, which prevents users from accessing previously copied items.
Network sharing and printer functionalities have not been spared either. Some PCs fail to display other devices in the network list, possibly due to the Function Discovery Resource Publication service, impacting file and printer sharing capabilities. Specific ARM-based Copilot+ PCs are facing issues with setting up and utilising printers, particularly those from major manufacturers like HP, Canon, and Brother.
The frequency and severity of these bugs are higher than previous updates, with Microsoft's Known Issues and Notifications page listing several more unspecified problems. Windows 11 24H2 aims to introduce exciting features and better stability but the current technical setbacks have hindered its success. Microsoft is actively working on resolving these issues but until such fixes are deployed, users are advised to delay updating to avoid potential disruptions.
For those encountering significant issues, reverting an update has been suggested, and certain troubleshooting steps can help alleviate these problems temporarily. Microsoft's troubleshooting tools, resetting Windows Update components or using restore points are some outlined methods for dealing with such instances. However, if issues persist, users might consider a system reinstallation as a last resort, although it remains a drastic measure.
Source: Noah Wire Services