servicing stack Archives

Winsage

February 17, 2026

Microsoft Windows 11 KB5077181 Update Triggers Infinite Restart Loop on Some Devices

Microsoft's Patch Tuesday update, KB5077181, released on February 10, 2026, has caused significant boot failures for users of Windows 11 versions 24H2 (OS build 26200.7840) and 25H2 (OS build 26100.7840), resulting in endless restart loops. Users are reporting over 15 reboot cycles, preventing access to their desktops. Issues include System Event Notification Service (SENS) errors and DHCP problems affecting internet connectivity. Installation errors with codes 0x800f0983 and 0x800f0991 indicate potential hardware, driver, or servicing stack incompatibilities. The update was intended to address 58 vulnerabilities, including six zero-days, but the boot loop issue has overshadowed these enhancements. CVE IDs and their CVSS scores related to the vulnerabilities addressed include: - CVE-2026-21510: 7.5 - CVE-2026-21519: 7.8 - CVE-2026-21533: 8.8 - CVE-2026-20841: 7.1 As of February 15, 2026, there is no "known issues" entry in Microsoft's release notes despite user reports. Users can uninstall the update through the Control Panel if their systems are accessible, or use the Windows Recovery Environment to execute commands for uninstallation if their systems are unbootable.

Winsage

January 19, 2026

The Last Windows Security Updates of January 2026 Are Here

Microsoft released its first set of security updates for the Windows operating system and various products in January 2026, addressing over 110 vulnerabilities. The updates are available for all supported versions of Windows, with Windows 10 receiving fixes only through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 are the main consumer releases benefiting from these updates. Approximately 112–114 security updates were released, with around 8 rated as Critical. At least one zero-day vulnerability is actively exploited. The updates include security fixes for Windows, Office, Edge, Azure, and server components. Windows 11 versions 23H2, 24H2, and 25H2, as well as Windows Server 2023 and 2025, have known issues. Windows 11 version 24H2 and 25H2 received security fixes for multiple vulnerabilities, while version 23H2 continues to receive support through enterprise servicing channels. Windows 10 updates are limited to ESU-enrolled systems, with general support ending in October 2025. Windows Server 2016, 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2025 received January security updates, addressing important vulnerabilities without disclosing any critical ones. Microsoft also released updates for Office products and SharePoint Server components. Known issues after the January updates include credential prompt failures and authentication issues in Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365, particularly affecting the new Windows App. Workarounds involve using the classic Remote Desktop client or the web-based RDP client. Additionally, devices with Secure Launch enabled may experience shutdown and sleep mode failures. Microsoft has provided out-of-band fixes for certain affected systems as of January 18, 2026. Users can manually install updates through the Windows Update feature, and it is recommended to create a full system backup before proceeding with updates.

Winsage

November 18, 2025

Microsoft fixes Windows 10 update flaw

Jack Bicer, the director of vulnerability research at Action1, advises IT leaders to ensure the latest servicing stack update (SSU) is installed before reapplying a patch after Microsoft’s patch release on November 17. He recommends troubleshooting steps for system file corruption, including: 1. Temporarily disabling non-Microsoft services and startup applications through a Clean Boot. 2. Manually installing the update by downloading the .msu package for KB5068781 from the Microsoft Update Catalog and using the command wusa.exe .msu /quiet /norestart. 3. Verifying the build number with the winver command, targeting build numbers 19045.6575 (22H2) or 19044.6575 (21H2).

Winsage

November 3, 2025

Windows 11 Finally Fixes “Update and Shut Down” Functionality After a Decade

Microsoft has released Windows 11 25H2 Build 26200.7019 (or 26100.7019 for 24H2), which addresses the issue of the "Update and shut down" option not properly shutting down PCs after updates. This problem has persisted since Windows 10, causing users to be returned to the login screen instead of shutting down. The update resolves the underlying issue that may have been caused by a race condition or complications within the Windows Servicing Stack. Many users, particularly laptop owners, have experienced inconvenience due to devices remaining powered on after expected shutdowns, leading to drained batteries.

Winsage

November 2, 2025

“Update and shut down” no longer restarts PC, as Windows 11 25H2 patch addresses a decades-old bug

Windows 11 25H2 Build 26200.7019 and 24H2 Build 26100.7019 have resolved the issue with the “Update and shut down” feature, which previously led to unexpected restarts instead of shutting down. This glitch affected both Windows 10 and 11 due to a faulty toggle introduced by Microsoft. The optional update released in October 2025 (KB5067036) addresses the problem that prevented “Update and shut down” from functioning correctly. Microsoft confirmed that the update rectifies the underlying issue causing the feature to malfunction. The exact cause of the problem remains unclear, but it may be linked to a race condition or complications within the Windows Servicing Stack.

Winsage

October 29, 2025

Microsoft Issues Week D Preview Updates for Windows 11

Microsoft has released the Week D preview updates for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, introducing Preview Update KB5067036, which upgrades version 25H2 to build 26200.7019 and version 24H2 to build 26100.7019. Key features include: - Copilot+ PCs: Improvements to Click to Do, allowing text translation, unit conversion, object selection, and interaction with Live Persona cards from Microsoft 365. Touchscreen access is available via a two-finger press. - File Explorer: Quick action commands in Home view for signed-in users, with future support for work and school actions. - Voice Access: Enhanced Fluid Dictation for grammar and punctuation, configurable command delays, and added support for Japanese. - Agent in Settings: Now supports the French language. - Windows Search: Enhanced semantic search available on all Copilot+ PCs. For all Windows 11 PCs: - Start Menu: Redesigned with a scrollable All section, responsive layout, and Phone Link integration. - Taskbar: Updated battery icon indicating status colors and an option to display battery life percentage. - File Explorer: Home view shows recommended files for MSA users and supports third-party cloud storage integration. - Lock Screen: Updated battery icons from the Taskbar are now visible. - Settings: The Email & accounts page has been renamed to Your accounts. - Administrator Protection: New security control available in Windows Security or through Microsoft Intune or Group Policy. - Quality Updates: Includes bug fixes, security enhancements, and new AI model versions for Copilot+ PCs. These features are part of a Controlled Feature Release (CFR) and will be rolled out gradually.

Winsage

October 20, 2025

Windows 10 KB5066791 last update without ESU, direct download links (.msu)

Windows 10 KB5066791 is the final update for users not opting for Extended Security Updates (ESU). It addresses several bugs, primarily benefiting enterprise users, while providing minimal enhancements for consumers. The update is distributed via Windows Update, with direct download links available for manual installation. Upon installation, users may not notice visible changes, and it appears as “2025-10 Cumulative Update for Windows 10 Version 22H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5066791).” Windows 10 Build 19045.6456 does not introduce significant new features but fixes issues, including a correction for the Chinese Input Method Editor (IME) and a bug affecting Windows Remote Management. A new servicing stack update has been introduced, and the legacy driver tmdm64.sys has been removed. Security has been enhanced with a requirement for Key Storage Provider (KSP) smart card certificates, which may cause issues with smart cards in older 32-bit applications. Microsoft has confirmed that KB5066791 can lead to smart card failures, particularly in older programs, and has provided registry modification steps for users to potentially resolve this issue. The first security update for users opting for Windows 10 ESU is scheduled for November 11, 2025. Users can enroll through the Windows Update page or purchase a paid option through the Windows Store for .99, extending updates until October 13, 2026.

Winsage

September 1, 2025

Microsoft confirms Windows 11 version 25H2 will have no new features — it actually removes some, and will be available soon

Microsoft has begun testing Windows 11 version 25H2 in the Windows Insider Release Preview Channel, indicating it is nearing public release. This version will not introduce new features and will maintain feature parity with version 24H2. The installation process for version 25H2 will be streamlined, requiring only a single restart and promising a faster download experience. Compatibility will remain intact, ensuring all applications and games will function seamlessly after the upgrade. General availability of version 25H2 is expected in late September or early October. Users can opt to install it through the Windows Insider Release Preview Channel, but it will not be automatically downloaded for those on version 24H2. Instead, it will appear as an optional update until version 24H2 reaches the end of its support lifecycle, after which it will be automatically installed.

Winsage

August 14, 2025

Microsoft fixes Windows Server bug causing cluster, VM issues

Microsoft has resolved an issue affecting the Cluster service and virtual machine restarts after the installation of July's Windows Server 2019 security updates. The problem, acknowledged in a private advisory, involved the Cluster service malfunctioning after the KB5062557 update, causing nodes to fail to rejoin clusters and virtual machines to experience multiple restarts. The August 2025 KB5063877 cumulative update has fixed this issue, requiring the prior installation of the KB5005112 servicing stack update. Additionally, Microsoft addressed a WSUS problem affecting the deployment of the August 2025 KB5063878 update on Windows 11 24H2 devices and resolved a DHCP service freeze issue caused by June 2025 security updates in the July 2024 cumulative updates.

Winsage

August 3, 2025

Microsoft Windows: Everything you need to know

Windows is the dominant operating system globally, developed by Microsoft, and serves over a billion users. The latest version is Windows 11, which debuted in October 2021, featuring significant visual and functional enhancements. Microsoft began rolling out the 24H2 update in mid-2024, introducing AI hardware support, enhanced security, and new features like Copilot and Recall. The upcoming 25H2 update is expected in late 2025, utilizing a lightweight enablement package for a swift upgrade process. Development on Windows 12, codenamed Hudson Valley, is ongoing, with a potential release in late 2026 or early 2027, focusing on AI-first computing and modular architecture. Users can check their current Windows version by pressing the Windows key + R and typing winver. Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is free for eligible systems, while Windows 11 Home costs 9 and Windows 11 Pro costs 9. The end-of-support date for Windows 10 is October 14, 2025, making an upgrade advisable for continued security and access to new features.