Recent reports have surfaced regarding a bug in Windows 11’s August update that appears to be causing issues with certain solid-state drives (SSDs). The situation has drawn the attention of Microsoft and its partners, including Phison, a prominent manufacturer of SSD controllers.
Phison has stated that SSDs utilizing their controllers may be more susceptible to this bug. In response, the company has dedicated over 4,500 hours to testing the drives that have been flagged as potentially impacted. They conducted more than 2,200 test cycles but have yet to reproduce the issue. Furthermore, Phison has indicated that neither their partners nor customers have reported experiencing the glitch.
Complicating matters, a fabricated document circulated online shortly after the bug was identified, claiming to list affected Phison controllers. Phison swiftly debunked this misinformation, emphasizing that the document was entirely false.
Analysis: Microsoft’s findings are still to come
While Phison’s extensive testing is commendable, it does not provide a conclusive resolution to the ongoing investigation by Microsoft into the SSD-breaking bug. As the inquiry continues, uncertainty lingers regarding the underlying causes of the reported failures. Although instances of SSD malfunctions appear to be infrequent, the situation warrants attention. Many are hopeful that Microsoft will soon release its findings to clarify the matter, which has become increasingly convoluted.
In their statement, Phison also offered general advice for users of high-performance storage devices, particularly when managing extended workloads such as large file transfers. They recommend utilizing a proper heatsink or thermal pad to maintain optimal temperatures and prevent overheating, which can lead to throttling. It is important to note that this guidance is not directly related to the Windows 11 bug; rather, it serves as a precautionary measure for all SSD users engaged in demanding tasks. For those without an existing heatsink, the installation process can be somewhat challenging, particularly for individuals who may not be well-versed in technology, although they are less likely to own high-performance SSDs.
