After months of anticipation and beta testing, Microsoft has unveiled its significant 2024 update for Windows 11, officially designated as Windows 11 24H2. Released on October 1, this update brings a host of enhancements, including an upgraded Copilot AI, a refreshed File Explorer, and promises of improved performance and stability. Users may notice the update available on their Windows Update screen, or they can access it via Microsoft’s Download Windows 11 page, where options include the Installation Assistant, installation media, or an ISO file.
However, before users rush to install the latest version, caution is advised. The 2024 update has been marred by a series of bugs that could hinder the overall user experience. Microsoft has temporarily halted the rollout for certain problematic PCs that may encounter issues such as blue screens. While the update is not paused for all Windows 11 users, the presence of these glitches suggests that it may be wise to delay the installation until fixes are implemented.
1. System File Checker Bug
The Windows System File Checker (SFC), designed to scan for and repair corrupted system files, is currently experiencing a bug in the 2024 update. Users running the command sfc /scannow may find themselves caught in a loop of false positives, with the tool repeatedly indicating that it has found and fixed corrupt files. This issue arises from the SFC misidentifying certain WebView2-related files as corrupted, rendering the tool ineffective until a fix is released.
2. Cache File Deletion Glitch
Another issue users may encounter is an 8.63GB update cache that appears impossible to delete through standard methods. Although attempts to remove the cache do not reflect any change in free disk space, Microsoft has confirmed this is a reporting bug. The solution lies in using the “Windows Update Cleanup” option during Disk Cleanup, which does successfully remove the cache despite the misleading reports.
3. Conflict with Easy Anti-Cheat
Gamers may face challenges as the 2024 update conflicts with the Easy Anti-Cheat software, which is included with some online games to prevent cheating. Users with Intel’s Alder Lake+ processors may experience the dreaded Blue Screen of Death due to this incompatibility. Microsoft is actively collaborating with Easy Anti-Cheat developers to address this issue.
4. Blue Screens in Other Instances
Beyond the Easy Anti-Cheat conflict, other scenarios can trigger blue screens in the 2024 update. Incompatibilities have been identified with certain drivers for Intel Smart Sound Technology on 11th Gen Core processors, as well as issues affecting specific Western Digital SSDs and MSI Z890 motherboards. Users experiencing these problems should remain vigilant as Microsoft works towards resolutions.
5. Disappearing Mouse Pointer
A peculiar bug has emerged where the mouse pointer disappears in Chromium-based applications like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge, particularly when interacting with text input fields. While this issue is frustrating, there are workarounds available for those affected.
6. Internet Connection Issues
Some users have reported erratic internet connectivity following the update. Although they can connect via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, they may not receive a valid IP address, preventing access to the internet. Attempts to rectify this through driver updates or network resets have proven ineffective, though using a static IP address has resolved the issue for some.
7. Fingerprint Sensor Glitch
For those relying on fingerprint authentication, a glitch has rendered fingerprint sensors unresponsive on a limited number of devices post-update. Users may find themselves unable to unlock their devices using this method, necessitating alternative sign-in options.
8. Broken Clipboard History
The clipboard history feature, which allows users to store and sync copied items across devices, has reportedly malfunctioned for some users. The tool insists that the clipboard history is empty, despite users having copied items. This bug, flagged by Windows Insider testers prior to the update, remains unresolved for many.
9. Network Sharing Issues
Another network-related problem has surfaced, where devices fail to appear in the network list, hindering file and printer sharing. This issue may be linked to Function Discovery Resource Publication (FDResPub). Some users have found success by manually starting FDResPub instead of allowing it to run automatically.
10. Printer Issues with ARM-based Copilot+ PCs
Lastly, users of Copilot+ PCs have encountered difficulties in setting up or using printers following the 2024 update. Reports indicate that printers from manufacturers such as HP, Canon, and Brother are particularly affected. Microsoft has acknowledged the issue and provided some workarounds, but a definitive solution is still pending.
These glitches represent just a fraction of the challenges facing Microsoft and its users with the Windows 11 2024 update. While some conflicts are to be expected with major updates, the sheer volume of issues this time around is notable. Until Microsoft addresses these concerns, it may be prudent for users to hold off on upgrading to the 2024 version and continue using their current setup.
