compatibility holds 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

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 7, 2025

Windows 11 24H2 blocked on PCs with code-obfuscation driver BSODs

Microsoft has implemented a safeguard hold for Windows 11 version 24H2 for systems using the sprotect.sys driver from SenseShield Technology, to prevent crashes and BSOD errors due to compatibility issues. This hold blocks the Windows 11 2024 Update from being delivered via Windows Update. Affected users can identify their systems using the safeguard ID: 56318982 and should not attempt manual updates until the issue is resolved. Microsoft has previously lifted other compatibility holds for specific user groups and has enacted additional upgrade blocks due to incompatible software or hardware.

Winsage

October 28, 2024

Windows 11 24H2 comes with an added dose of problems

Microsoft is rolling out Windows 11 24H2, but users are facing hardware and software challenges during installation due to stringent prerequisites. To address potential issues, Microsoft has implemented 'compatibility holds' that prevent the update until systems meet the necessary criteria. Certain ASUS laptop models, specifically the X415KA and X515KA, are experiencing significant problems, including blue screen errors, prompting Microsoft to halt the update for these devices until users install a firmware update from ASUS. Various applications are also causing complications, leading to the rollout pause. Notable problematic applications include Voicemeeter, Safe Exam Browser (version 3.7 and earlier), custom wallpaper applications, Asphalt 8, and Easy Anti-Cheat software, particularly on devices with Intel Alder Lake+ processors and Intel vPro technology. Users are advised to update their drivers and applications for a smoother transition. Issues with facial recognition features and camera functionalities have been reported, with built-in cameras and fingerprint sensors potentially ceasing to function post-update. Microsoft has paused updates related to these functionalities, and firmware updates may be necessary. Devices using Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST) are encountering blue screen errors linked to specific driver versions (10.29.0.5152 and 10.30.0.5152), with a recommended update to driver versions 10.30.00.5714, 10.29.00.5714, or later to resolve these issues.

Winsage

October 28, 2024

Windows 11 24H2: The hardware and software blocking the new update

Windows 11 24H2 is currently inaccessible to many users due to compatibility holds by Microsoft aimed at preventing crashes and performance issues. Affected devices include ASUS X415KA and X515KA models, which face blue screen errors, leading to a paused update until ASUS releases a firmware update. Users of the Voicemeeter application may experience MEMORY MANAGEMENT errors, prompting Microsoft to suspend the update until a fix is provided. Integrated cameras may malfunction post-upgrade, affecting various applications, resulting in a hold on the update for impacted devices. The Safe Exam Browser versions 3.7 or lower encounter operational issues after the update, leading to restrictions for those devices. Devices using Easy Anti-Cheat may crash due to outdated drivers, causing Microsoft to pause the update until users update their drivers. Fingerprint sensors may cause devices to become unresponsive after locking, prompting a hold until a firmware update is available. Wallpaper customization apps can lead to issues post-update, resulting in a compatibility hold until users update these applications. Intel Smart Sound Technology devices may face blue screen errors with specific driver versions, and users are advised to update their drivers to resolve the issue. The presence of Asphalt 8 (Airborne) can also block the update due to a bug causing gameplay freezes, leading to a hold on affected devices. Microsoft recommends users check for updates to software or drivers instead of forcing the upgrade, as this could cause significant issues.