recovery mode Archives

Winsage

October 2, 2024

Microsoft Pulls Back September 26 Optional Update For Windows 11 As It Caused BSOD & GSOD Errors

On September 26, Microsoft released an optional update for Windows 11, KB5043145, which caused significant booting issues for many users, leading to its retraction. Users reported being trapped in endless boot loops and experiencing unresponsive mice and keyboards. Microsoft has paused the rollout of the update but it remains available for download, with warnings against installation due to potential recovery mode activation after failed boot attempts. Specific laptop models, such as the Asus TUF A15 (2022) and ROG Strix G17 (2024), have been notably affected. The update has also caused errors like the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) and Green Screen of Death (GSOD). Users have found that reverting to the previous update resolves these issues. Microsoft is investigating the situation and has advised users to uninstall the KB5043145 update. Additionally, the 24H2 update for Windows 11 has been released, which may improve stability.

Winsage

October 1, 2024

Microsoft fixes Windows KB5043145 reboot loops, USB and Bluetooth issues

Microsoft has addressed issues caused by the Windows KB5043145 preview update, which led to reboot loops, system freezes, and failures in USB and Bluetooth device connectivity. Users reported their systems either loading the Automatic Repair tool or entering BitLocker recovery mode after repeated reboots. The update caused hardware connected via USB and Bluetooth, such as keyboards and printers, to malfunction, indicated by a yellow exclamation mark under the USB Host Controller in Device Manager. To resolve these issues, Microsoft implemented a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) to reverse the problematic update and is working on integrating this fix into an upcoming Windows update. Administrators managing affected Windows enterprise devices can resolve the issue by installing the Windows 11 22H2 KB5043145 240904_041021 KIR Group Policy, which requires a system restart to apply. Microsoft has previously addressed similar issues with updates affecting Windows Server 2019 and other versions.

Winsage

September 30, 2024

Windows 11 KB5043145 update causes reboot loops, blue screens

Microsoft has issued a cautionary note regarding the September 2024 KB5043145 preview update for Windows 11, indicating that users may experience reboot loops or freezes with blue screens. The update, released to address various issues, particularly with the Edge browser and task manager, has led to reports of devices restarting repeatedly or becoming unresponsive. Some users have noted that their devices automatically open the Automatic Repair tool after multiple restart attempts, and in some cases, BitLocker recovery is triggered. Microsoft is actively investigating these issues and encourages affected users to report their experiences through the Feedback Hub. The company is also working on fixes for other known issues related to boot problems and dual-boot systems with Secure Boot enabled, which arose from previous Windows security updates.

Winsage

September 30, 2024

Windows 11 KB5043145 BSODs PCs, breaks mouse, keyboard, WSL 2, WiFi

Windows 11 KB5043145 is an optional update that has caused significant issues for users, including failures to boot to the desktop, resulting in "Blue Screen of Death" (BSOD) and "Green Screen of Death" (GSOD) errors. Reports indicate that affected devices may become trapped in a boot loop or unable to boot, leading to automatic transitions to recovery screens. The problems are particularly prevalent among users of Asus TUF A15 (2022) and ROG Strix G17 (2024) laptops, although Microsoft suggests the issue may affect other models as well. Users have also reported that their mouse and keyboard became non-functional after the update, particularly on Intel NUC models and some Asus laptops. Additionally, WSL2 fails to operate on AMD systems, displaying a connection timeout error. Other reported issues include the disappearance of WiFi options and changes to right-click context menus. Microsoft is investigating these problems and advises affected users to report their experiences through the Feedback Hub. Instructions for manually uninstalling the update are provided, including steps to access recovery mode and use the Command Prompt.

AppWizard

September 27, 2024

PC Gamer at Tokyo Game Show 2024 Day 2 report: Microsoft’s Game Pass gambit boosts PC gaming, while Konami leans on Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater

At the Tokyo Game Show 2024, PC gaming is highlighted as a significant growth area, with traditional console-exclusive models declining. Warframe features prominently at the event, although attendees cannot ride the showcased motorbike. Microsoft's Game Pass subscription service has bolstered the ranks of PC gamers and attracted console gamers, particularly from Sony, due to the decline of exclusive titles and affordable access to new games. Microsoft has also announced the addition of classic titles like Starcraft 2 to Game Pass for PC users on November 5th. The rising costs of consoles, such as the PS5 Pro, are making PC gaming more appealing to budget-conscious gamers. Konami is in recovery mode following Hideo Kojima's departure, focusing on the remake of Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, but faces uncertainty about future projects. SNK is revitalized after being acquired by a Saudi firm and is showcasing its fighting game, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, which will release on PC on day one. The fighting game genre is thriving on PC, with titles like Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8 already successful, and upcoming releases featuring cross-platform play.

Winsage

August 19, 2024

The Windows BitLocker recovery bug is fixed, according to Microsoft

Microsoft addressed a bug affecting users of Windows 10, Windows 11, and various versions of Windows Server that emerged after the July 2024 security update. The issue caused certain devices to boot into BitLocker recovery mode instead of the standard login screen, prompting users to enter a recovery key to access their data. The bug primarily impacted HP and Lenovo laptops in corporate environments that received firmware updates during the July Patch Tuesday release. BitLocker, an encryption feature, triggered recovery mode due to deviations in the boot process, often related to firmware updates. Users can manage their Device Encryption status in Windows Settings, and can retrieve their BitLocker recovery key from their Microsoft account if prompted. Disabling encryption should be a last resort, as maintaining a backup of the recovery key helps mitigate data loss risks while ensuring device security.

Winsage

August 15, 2024

Microsoft fixes security bug that kept booting PCs into recovery mode

Microsoft addressed a security issue that caused certain Windows PCs to boot into BitLocker recovery mode after the installation of the July 2024 security update released on July 9, 2024. This issue particularly affected users with Device Encryption enabled. The affected Windows versions include Windows 11 (versions 23H2, 22H2, 21H2) and Windows 10 (versions 22H2, 21H2), as well as several Windows Server versions (2022, 2019, 2016, 2012 R2, 2012, 2008 R2, 2008). Microsoft has released a fix and recommends users install the latest update. Users can retrieve their BitLocker recovery key by logging into the BitLocker recovery screen portal with their Microsoft account.

Winsage

August 15, 2024

Microsoft disables BitLocker security fix, advises manual mitigation

Microsoft has acknowledged a critical security vulnerability, CVE-2024-38058, which allows attackers with physical access to bypass BitLocker Device Encryption. The company has decided to disable a fix for this vulnerability due to firmware incompatibility issues reported by users, which caused devices to enter recovery mode. The fix will be disabled with the August 2024 security updates. Microsoft recommends following mitigation measures in the KB5025885 advisory, which involves a complex four-stage procedure requiring eight device restarts. Users are cautioned that once these mitigations are applied on devices using Secure Boot, they cannot be undone. Additionally, Microsoft is addressing a known issue from the July Windows security updates that caused some devices to boot into BitLocker recovery mode, advising users to install the latest updates for improvements and resolutions, although no direct link to CVE-2024-38058 has been established.

Winsage

August 14, 2024

Microsoft squashes Windows BitLocker recovery bug

Microsoft addressed an issue that caused many Windows PCs to unexpectedly enter BitLocker recovery mode, affecting nearly all supported versions of Windows 11, Windows 10, and various editions of Windows Server since 2008, following the July 2024 Windows security update. Users were more likely to encounter this issue if they had the Device Encryption option enabled. The problem was resolved with the August 13 update, and Microsoft recommended installing the latest updates for important improvements and issue resolutions. BitLocker is a technology for encrypting user storage, and its prominence increased after a July 2024 CrowdStrike update led to many devices experiencing a persistent blue screen boot loop. The July 2024 security update inadvertently triggered BitLocker recovery for some devices. Additionally, BitLocker has been exploited by cybercriminals in ransomware attacks, and users typically should not see the recovery mode unless prompted by hardware updates.

Winsage

August 14, 2024

Microsoft fixes issue that sent PCs into BitLocker recovery

Microsoft has addressed an issue affecting certain Windows devices that caused them to boot into BitLocker recovery mode after installing the July 2024 security updates. Users must input their BitLocker recovery key to unlock their drives. The problem primarily impacts users with the Device Encryption feature enabled and affects multiple Windows versions, including Windows 11 (various versions) and Windows Server (various versions). Microsoft recommends installing the latest update to resolve this issue and includes enhancements and fixes. Users can retrieve their BitLocker recovery key through the BitLocker recovery screen portal with their Microsoft account. Similar BitLocker-related issues have occurred in the past, including problems after the KB5012170 security update in August 2022 and another issue resolved in April 2024. Additionally, Microsoft is addressing ongoing issues with remote desktop connections on select Windows Server systems following the July updates.