compatibility hold Archives

Winsage

May 13, 2025

Windows 11 upgrade block lifted after Safe Exam Browser fix

Microsoft has lifted an upgrade block that prevented certain users of the Safe Exam Browser from installing the Windows 11 2024 Update due to compatibility concerns. The block was initially implemented in September to protect users from issues with Safe Exam Browser version 3.7 or earlier. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Safe Exam Browser version 3.8 or later before proceeding with the Windows 11 24H2 update. If users still encounter the safeguard hold after 48 hours of updating, they should contact Safe Exam Browser Support. The Windows 11 24H2 feature update is now available for all compatible PCs, except those under safeguard holds. Microsoft has resolved issues that previously blocked the update for some users and has removed other compatibility holds for specific devices and applications. However, some upgrade blocks remain due to incompatible hardware and software. Windows 11 24H2 began its rollout in May 2024 for enterprise testing, with a broader release in October.

Winsage

May 5, 2025

Windows 11 24H2 update is now automatically downloading on some PCs

Many users of Windows 11 will receive an automatic upgrade to version 24H2, confirmed by Microsoft. Devices running the Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 (versions 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2) will receive this update without IT management intervention. The rollout began recently and will extend to users of Windows 10 and 11, unless hindered by compatibility issues. Users can manually check for the update through Settings > Windows Update. As of April, Windows 11's market share was 43.72%, compared to 52.94% for Windows 10, with the end of support for Windows 10 set for October 14, 2025. Microsoft is encouraging users to transition to Windows 11 through ads and popups.

Winsage

May 5, 2025

Been hiding from Windows 11 24H2 due to the fuss about all the bugs? There’s nowhere to run now as Microsoft’s made the update compulsory

Windows 11's 24H2 update has entered the final phase of its rollout and is now broadly available to all users. Microsoft has stated that the update will be pushed via Windows Update, but some users may experience delays due to compatibility holds for devices with known issues. Devices running Windows 11 Home and Pro editions will receive the update automatically unless managed by IT departments. Users can check for updates in Windows Update, and while some may receive the update automatically, not all will experience immediate installation. Microsoft emphasizes the importance of updates for device security and states that they cannot be completely stopped. Users on Windows 11 Home have limited options for delaying updates but can temporarily pause them when available.

Winsage

May 3, 2025

Windows 11 24H2 is finally available for all, but here’s why your PC may still not get it

Microsoft has made Windows 11 version 24H2, also known as the 2024 Update, available to a wider audience. This update includes enhancements such as a revamped File Explorer, an updated Start menu with Phone Link, improved Power Settings, video call enhancements, and AI-related features. The update is accessible via Windows Update for eligible PCs not managed by IT departments, and users can check for updates in Settings. However, some users may face a compatibility hold, particularly those using the sprotect.sys driver, which prevents the update from appearing. Manual updates can be performed using the Windows Installation Assistant or Media Creation Tool, but caution is advised due to potential stability issues. Windows 11 23H2 support will continue until November, and delaying the upgrade beyond this date could expose systems to security risks.

Winsage

April 15, 2025

These PCs can finally upgrade to the latest version of Windows 11

PCs previously barred from upgrading to Windows 11 version 24H2 can now proceed with the upgrade following updates to affected applications, such as Wallpaper Engine, which improved compatibility. Microsoft had previously placed a compatibility hold on devices using certain applications to prevent disruptions. Users may not see the upgrade option immediately, but as updates for affected applications are released, the upgrade path will become more accessible.

Winsage

April 14, 2025

Microsoft starts lifting Windows 11 24H2 safeguard hold

Microsoft has begun lifting a compatibility hold on wallpaper customization applications for Windows 11, which had been in place for over six months since the release of Windows 11 24H2. The hold affected multiple applications, causing issues such as incorrect wallpaper display and disappearing icons. Microsoft confirmed that the hold is being removed incrementally as developers update their applications, although the reasons for the incompatibility remain unclear. Users may receive prompts to uninstall their wallpaper applications during the update process, and they are encouraged to update these applications for better compatibility. Some applications, like Wallpaper Engine, have already released updates to enhance compatibility with Windows 11 24H2. The resolution of compatibility issues will depend on the timing of application updates from developers.

Winsage

April 9, 2025

Microsoft resets ‘days since last Windows 11 problem’ to 0

Microsoft has implemented a compatibility hold for Windows 11 24H2 affecting devices using the sprotect.sys driver from SenseShield Technology, which is crucial for encryption protection in enterprise security software. This hold impacts all versions of the sprotect.sys driver, specifically versions 1.0.2.372 and 1.0.3.48903, causing potential disruptions such as unresponsiveness and black or blue screen errors. Users are advised not to force the Windows 11 24H2 update until the issue is resolved, and Microsoft is collaborating with SenseShield to investigate the problem. Additionally, Microsoft has previously issued holds for other issues related to Dirac Audio enhancement technology and AutoCAD 2022, raising concerns about the compatibility and stability of Windows 11 compared to Windows 10.

Winsage

April 6, 2025

Microsoft blocks Windows 11 24H2 update on some new PCs

Microsoft has informed Windows 10 users that their devices are not eligible for an upgrade to Windows 11 due to system requirements and recommends transitioning to a new PC with Windows 11. A new compatibility issue has arisen with the sprotect.sys driver, causing system freezes and errors on Windows 11 version 24H2, leading Microsoft to impose a compatibility hold on affected devices. This hold prevents these devices from being prompted to install Windows 11, version 24H2. Users with impacted devices will see a notification on the Windows Update page indicating no immediate action is required. IT administrators can monitor the issue using safeguard ID 56318982. Microsoft advises against forcing the update if the system is incompatible and is working with SenseShield Technology Co. to resolve the issue.

Winsage

March 22, 2025

Your PC might have been blocked from updating Windows 11 because of this game

Microsoft has lifted a compatibility hold that was preventing certain PCs from upgrading to Windows 11 version 24H2 due to the presence of the game Asphalt 8 (Airborne). The issue has been resolved, allowing affected PCs to proceed with the upgrade, which may take up to 48 hours to become available. Asphalt 8 was originally launched for Windows 8 in 2018.

Winsage

March 20, 2025

Microsoft rolls out Windows 11 24H2 to more users after fixing 6-month-old bug

Microsoft previously paused Windows 11 updates due to major bugs affecting gaming and audio functionalities. A compatibility hold was placed on Windows 11 for users with Asphalt 8: Airborne installed due to the game's crashing issues. Microsoft has lifted the hold on Asphalt 8: Airborne, making the Windows 11 update available again. The hold, identified by ID 52796746, has been removed, allowing affected users to receive the update through Windows Update, which may take up to 48 hours to appear.