recovery screen Archives

Winsage

September 30, 2024

Do not install! Recent Windows 11 update wreaks havoc and breaks PCs

Microsoft introduced an optional update for Windows 11, designated as KB5043145, which has caused significant issues for some users, leading to unresponsive systems. After installation, many users experienced the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) or the Green Screen of Death (GSOD), and some were prompted for BitLocker recovery. The update has been linked to a persistent boot loop, preventing affected systems from starting properly. Microsoft has acknowledged this issue, particularly for users on Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 22H2, and has removed the update from circulation. Users reported additional problems, including non-functional mice and keyboards and loss of WLAN connectivity. Microsoft is investigating these issues and advises users to hold off on installing the update if they haven't done so yet. For those who have installed it, they can uninstall it via Windows Recovery or through the Settings menu.

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.

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 14, 2024

Microsoft posts official BitLocker key recovery and back up guide for Windows 11/10 PCs

In May, Microsoft considered implementing default encryption for Windows 11 24H2 Home PCs, which may affect performance. AMD's Ryzen 9000 series processors could improve encryption performance with AES-XTS. Users need a BitLocker recovery key for encryption changes, which is more accessible through a Microsoft Account than a local account. Recently, users reported booting into a BitLocker recovery screen after Patch Tuesday updates, and Microsoft is investigating this issue. Microsoft has released new guides on BitLocker device encryption, including instructions for retrieving recovery keys linked to Microsoft or work/school accounts. Users are advised to back up their BitLocker recovery keys, with options to save them to a Microsoft Account, USB flash drive, file, or print them.

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.

Winsage

August 14, 2024

Windows 10 KB5041580 update released with 14 fixes, security updates

Microsoft has released the KB5041580 cumulative update for Windows 10 22H2 and 21H2, which includes 14 changes and fixes, addressing BitLocker issues and implementing security updates that rectify 142 vulnerabilities. The update can be installed by checking for updates in the Windows Update settings and will automatically install due to its mandatory nature. After installation, Windows 10 22H2 will be upgraded to build 19045.4780, and Windows 10 21H2 to build 19044.4780. Users can also manually download the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog. Key fixes in the update include: - Resolution of a BitLocker recovery screen issue during startup. - Restoration of the “Use my Windows user account” checkbox on the lock screen for Wi-Fi connectivity. - Removal of the NetJoinLegacyAccountReuse registry key. - Application of Secure Boot Advanced Targeting (SBAT) to prevent vulnerable Linux EFI from executing. - Proper recognition of the FrameShutdownDelay registry key value by the browser. - Resolution of an HTML preview rendering issue in the Group Policy editor related to WPA3. - Ability to select groups from the target domain for Group Policy Preferences Item Level Targeting. - Fix for a system hang during file transfers caused by TCP send code. - Rectification of unresponsiveness in the Print Support App when interfacing with USB devices. - Addressing communication failures with the Universal Print service. - Prevention of a stop error when applying more than 32 Windows Defender Application Control policies. - Updates to the Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist file. - Fix for backup operation failures on devices with an EFI system partition. - Issues with Microsoft Connected Cache nodes leading to increased download traffic. A persistent issue remains for users experiencing 0x80070520 errors when changing account profile pictures. For detailed information on all fixes, users can refer to the KB5041580 support bulletin.

Winsage

August 13, 2024

Windows 11 Patch Tuesday update out now for 23H2, 22H2 (KB5041585), and 21H2 (KB5041592)

Microsoft has released Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 11 versions 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2, identified as KB5041585 for 23H2 and 22H2, and KB5041592 for 21H2. Users will be on build versions 22621.4037, 22631.4037, and 22000.3147 after installation. The Home and Pro editions of Windows 11, version 22H2, will reach end of service on October 8, 2024, after which they will only receive security updates. Enterprise and Education editions will continue to receive support. The updates address security vulnerabilities and include various improvements, such as enhancements to BitLocker, lock screen functionality, and Secure Boot Advanced Targeting. The servicing stack updates for each version enhance the installation process for future updates. All editions of Windows 11, version 21H2, will also reach end of service on October 8, 2024. Known issues include a BitLocker recovery screen and an error when changing user account profile pictures in version 21H2. The updates are available via Windows Update and the Microsoft Catalog website.

Winsage

August 13, 2024

Windows 11 KB5041585 cumulative update released with fixes, new features

Microsoft has released the KB5041585 cumulative update for Windows 11 23H2, part of the August 2024 Patch Tuesday, which addresses security vulnerabilities and enhances user experience. Users can install the update via Start > Settings > Windows Update or manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog. Windows 11 22H2 will reach its end of service on October 8, 2024, prompting users to upgrade to 23H2. The update changes the Windows 11 22H2 build number to 22621.4037 and the 23H2 version to 22631.4037. Key improvements include: - A feature to duplicate tabs in File Explorer with a right-click. - Fix for a BitLocker recovery screen issue after the July 9, 2024 update. - Resolution of CVE-2024-38143 affecting Wi-Fi connections on the lock screen. - Removal of the NetJoinLegacyAccountReuse registry key. - Application of Secure Boot Advanced Targeting (SBAT) to prevent vulnerable Linux EFI from executing. - Notification for enabling Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for nearby sharing. - Ability to drag apps from the Pinned section of the Start menu to the taskbar. - Navigation improvements on the taskbar using keyboard shortcuts. - Refinement of the End task option to eliminate non-responsive dialogs. - Various issues in File Explorer, including memory leaks and unresponsiveness. - Increased spacing between desktop icons. Microsoft reports no current known issues with the update.