Windows 11 24H2 causes USB scanners and printers stop working

Windows 11 24H2 has emerged as a source of frustration for many users, particularly those relying on USB scanning devices. Reports from BleepingComputer indicate that following the update, a variety of USB scanners and multifunction devices have ceased to function properly.

In response to these widespread issues, Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and has temporarily halted the rollout of the Windows 11 24H2 update for users with USB scanning devices.

Which devices are affected?

Complaints regarding this specific Windows 11 24H2 issue have been steadily accumulating across various platforms, including the Microsoft community forum and Reddit. The problem appears to predominantly impact devices that utilize the eSCL protocol, a standard widely adopted by manufacturers such as HP, Brother, and Fujitsu. Affected devices include:

  • Standalone scanners
  • Multifunction printers
  • Fax machines
  • Modems

In many instances, users have found that their PCs fail to recognize the connected scanning devices altogether. Microsoft is currently collaborating with several manufacturers to develop a solution, but existing driver updates have yet to restore functionality to the affected devices.

What you can do if you’re affected

For those impacted by this issue, the best course of action is to refrain from installing Windows 11 24H2, especially if you depend on USB devices with scanning capabilities. It’s worth noting that Microsoft has proactively blocked the update on systems identified as affected.

Users are also advised against manually installing Windows 11 24H2 through alternative methods, particularly if scanning is integral to their daily operations.

If you have already updated and are unable to wait for a fix from Microsoft, your only recourse may be to revert to an earlier version of Windows 11. While this solution has not proven effective for all issues related to Windows 11 24H2, it remains a viable option for those seeking immediate relief from the current predicament.

This information was originally published in our sister publication PC-WELT and has been translated and localized from German.

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Windows 11 24H2 causes USB scanners and printers stop working