installation failures Archives

Winsage

April 25, 2025

Windows “inetpub” security fix can be abused to block future updates

A recent Microsoft security update has created a new 'inetpub' folder in the root of the system drive, linked to a fix for a Windows Process Activation elevation of privilege vulnerability (CVE-2025-21204). This folder has appeared on systems without Internet Information Services (IIS) installed. Microsoft advises users not to delete the folder, as it enhances system protection. However, cybersecurity expert Kevin Beaumont has shown that the 'inetpub' folder can be manipulated by non-administrative users to create a junction that redirects to a Windows file, potentially obstructing future Windows updates and resulting in a 0x800F081F error code. Microsoft has classified this issue as "Medium" severity and has closed the case, indicating it may be addressed in future updates.

Winsage

April 23, 2025

Microsoft fixes Windows Server 2025 blue screen, install issues

Microsoft has addressed issues affecting Windows Server 2025 for systems with more than 256 logical processors, which could lead to installation failures, slow start-up times, and blue screen errors. These problems have been resolved through updates since the KB5046617 cumulative update released in November. IT administrators are advised to install the latest security updates, which include essential fixes. A temporary workaround involves limiting the number of logical processors to 256 or fewer by adjusting settings in the UEFI Setup. Additionally, Microsoft warned of potential accessibility issues with Windows Server 2025 domain controllers post-restart and reported login difficulties with Windows Hello after the April 2025 updates. A bug causing authentication issues with Credential Guard has been fixed, and a new safeguard hold for Windows 11 24H2 has been introduced due to compatibility problems with the SenseShield Technology's sprotect.sys driver.

Winsage

April 22, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5562 (Dev Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5562 (KB5055642) has been released to the Dev Channel, introducing new features and improvements. Key updates include: - New Text Actions in Click to Do: - "Practice in Reading Coach" allows users to enhance reading fluency and pronunciation. - "Read with Immersive Reader" offers a distraction-free reading environment with customizable text options. - Finding Photos Saved in the Cloud via Windows Search: Users in the European Economic Area can search for cloud-stored photos directly from the taskbar by describing them. - Improvements for Voice Access: Users can add custom words to the voice access dictionary and discover new features through an immersive experience. - Improved Windows Search: Users can disable cloud content searching via settings. - File Explorer Changes: Folders opened from outside File Explorer will default to opening in a new tab if an existing window is open. - Widgets Improvements: Notification settings can be controlled per feed or dashboard. - Windows Security Update: Additional details for Pluton TPM chips will be displayed in the Windows Security app. - Settings Update: The printer renaming dialog has been updated to align with Windows 11 visuals. - Fixes: Resolved issues include Start menu crashes, color display issues in snap layouts, slow loading times for search, and voice typing issues in the Chinese layout. - Known Issues: Some apps may not install from the Microsoft Store, and Windows Recovery Environment may not function properly after the update. - Reminders: Users can remove Recall at any time, and updates in the Dev Channel are based on Windows 11, version 24H2.

Winsage

April 15, 2025

Microsoft tells Windows users to ignore 0x80070643 WinRE errors

Microsoft has acknowledged that some users may experience installation failures with error code 0x80070643 when deploying the April 2025 Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) updates, specifically affecting the KB5057589 update for Windows 10 versions 22H2 and 21H2, and the KB5057588 update for Windows Server 2022. The company stated that this error is misleading and does not affect device functionality, as the WinRE update is typically applied successfully after a device restart. Users may see a failure indication in Windows Update, but this will be resolved after the next daily scan and restart. Microsoft is working on a resolution for this issue, which follows a similar situation from August 2024. Additionally, fraudulent IT support websites have been identified promoting malicious PowerShell "fixes" for these errors.

Winsage

April 14, 2025

Can’t securely login to your PC using facial recognition anymore? New Windows 11 update patch is likely to blame – if you can install the update at all

The April 2025 cumulative update for Windows 11, identified as KB5055523, has caused issues with the Windows Hello feature, particularly affecting users with privacy shutters on their webcams. Reports indicate that facial recognition no longer functions properly unless the privacy cover is removed. Users have suggested uninstalling the update as a workaround, while a potential solution involves disabling the RGB camera in Device Manager. Microsoft has acknowledged a separate issue related to Windows Hello affecting specific security features in Windows 11 Pro or enterprise editions. Additionally, users have reported installation failures with the April update, encountering error messages and stalling during the process. Other notable bugs include language inconsistencies, the uninstallation of the Copilot app, and a glitch in File Explorer's menu display.

Winsage

April 12, 2025

Microsoft: Windows ‘inetpub’ folder created by security fix, don’t delete

Microsoft has acknowledged that the April 2025 Windows security update creates a new, empty "inetpub" folder on user systems, advising against its deletion. This folder is associated with Internet Information Services (IIS) but appears even on systems without IIS installed. The folder is created using the SYSTEM account, and while deleting it does not disrupt Windows functionality, Microsoft emphasizes it should remain untouched. The existence of the C:inetpub directory prior to the update may cause installation failures of the cumulative updates. Microsoft has updated its advisory regarding a security vulnerability (CVE-2025-21204) related to improper link resolution within the Windows Update Stack, warning that exploitation could allow local attackers to escalate permissions. Users can recreate the C:inetpub folder by installing IIS through the Windows Features control panel, and uninstalling IIS will remove the software but leave the folder intact.

Winsage

March 30, 2025

5 reasons I use PowerShell to automate boring Windows tasks

PowerShell automates repetitive computing tasks, enhancing productivity by offering a faster command-line interface (CLI) compared to traditional graphical user interfaces (GUIs). It simplifies app management, allowing users to reinstall or update applications more effectively than through the Microsoft Store. PowerShell also streamlines file management with the Move-Item cmdlet, which transfers files and deletes the original from the source. Users can automate scripts with Task Scheduler for routine tasks, and it supports system maintenance through cmdlets and custom scripts, benefiting both IT administrators and casual users. PowerShell's automation capabilities make it a valuable tool for optimizing computing experiences.

Winsage

March 21, 2025

Windows 10 users struggle with several problems after March update

Many Windows 10 users are experiencing issues with the KB5053606 update, including installation failures with error code 0x80070020, prolonged update processes, and automatic installations despite disabled settings. Users who successfully install the update report problems such as disappearing taskbar icons, reverted desktop customizations, and slowed system performance. In corporate settings, issues include broken user profiles and problems with the print spooler, leading to program crashes and difficulties with Citrix. Microsoft has acknowledged some issues related to Citrix and USB printers but has not provided solutions for the other problems users are facing.

Winsage

March 14, 2025

Windows 11 24H2’s March update is riddled with failures and crashes

Microsoft released update KB5053598 for Windows 11 24H2 to enhance security by addressing critical vulnerabilities. Users are experiencing installation challenges, with common error codes such as 0x800f0993, 0x800F081F, 0x80070032, and 0xC004F211 indicating failures. The installation process often stalls at various percentages, and some users report the update uninstalling itself after reaching nearly complete progress. Additionally, those who successfully install the update face issues like the Blue Screen of Death, booting problems, and disconnections when using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). Microsoft has not acknowledged these issues or provided a resolution, and no workarounds are available. Users are advised to roll back the update to restore system stability. The update aimed to address significant security vulnerabilities, including the zero-day flaw CVE-2025-24983.

Winsage

February 23, 2025

Microsoft Update Fails—How To Stop New Install Breaking Windows

A recent update for Microsoft Windows, specifically Windows 11 KB5051987, has caused issues for users, including installation failures and problems with File Explorer becoming unresponsive when accessing folders like Desktop, Documents, or Pictures. Users can see File Explorer in Task Manager, but it remains largely nonfunctional. Other issues include an inoperable sidebar. The recommended solution is to uninstall the update via the Windows Update section in Settings. Users should locate the update, click 'Uninstall', and reboot the system. After uninstalling, they will revert to the January 2025 Update. If problems persist upon reinstalling KB5051987, users are advised to pause updates for a few weeks. This update is mandatory and installs automatically, making it necessary for users to manually uninstall it if they encounter issues. Microsoft is expected to address these problems in an optional update scheduled for February 2025.