update block Archives

Winsage

September 23, 2025

Microsoft lifts Windows 11 update block after face detection fix

Microsoft has lifted a compatibility hold that previously prevented devices with integrated cameras from upgrading to Windows 11 24H2 due to a face detection bug causing app freezes. The hold, identified by safeguard ID: 53340062, was implemented to protect users from these issues. With the bug resolved, eligible devices can now upgrade through the Windows Update release channel, although it may take up to 48 hours for the update to be available. Microsoft also removed another safeguard hold affecting Bluetooth devices. Some compatibility blocks remain for devices using specific software and drivers. Windows 11 24H2 was officially launched in October 2024 for devices running Windows 11 22H2/23H2.

Winsage

September 15, 2025

Microsoft fixes Windows 11 audio issues confirmed in December

Microsoft has lifted the safeguard hold that restricted certain users from upgrading to Windows 11 24H2 due to compatibility issues with Bluetooth headsets and speakers. The bug, acknowledged in December, primarily affected systems using Dirac audio improvement software, causing audio-related malfunctions. The incompatibility was linked to the software component cridspapo.dll. On September 11, 2025, Microsoft announced the removal of the update block for devices with Dirac audio software, allowing them to upgrade to Windows 11, version 24H2. A new driver addressing the issue is available via Windows Update. However, upgrades remain blocked for devices with incompatible Intel Smart Sound Technology audio drivers, SenseShield Technology code-obfuscation drivers, wallpaper customization software, and integrated cameras.

Winsage

July 26, 2025

Microsoft lifts Windows 11 update block for Easy Anti-Cheat users

Microsoft has lifted the compatibility hold that previously prevented some users of Easy Anti-Cheat from upgrading to the Windows 11 2024 Update due to issues causing unexpected restarts and blue screen of death (BSOD) errors. An emergency update (KB5063060) was released on June 11 to address these compatibility issues. As of July 24, 2025, eligible devices can now install Windows 11, version 24H2 via Windows Update, although users may see a warning about an incompatible version of Easy Anti-Cheat. Microsoft confirmed that older versions of Easy Anti-Cheat will not trigger a BSOD unless activated by a game. Additionally, a safeguard hold imposed in October for Intel Alder Lake+ and vPro systems was lifted in March after resolving related issues. Other compatibility holds affecting AutoCAD and Safe Exam Browser users have also been removed.

Winsage

July 26, 2025

After almost a year, Windows 11 24H2 finally clears a the major rollout barrier

Microsoft has indicated that the release of Windows 11 25H2 is expected between October and November, although an official announcement has not yet been made. The company has lifted an update block that previously prevented the Windows 11 24H2 update from appearing for certain PCs, allowing more devices to become eligible for the update. The Windows 11 24H2 update was made accessible to all users in May, except for those under a "Compatibility hold" due to performance instability issues, particularly affecting PCs with Intel's Alder Lake processors or those using Easy Anti-Cheat software. The recent removal of the compatibility hold allows Alder Lake+ PCs to download and install the 24H2 update, but some devices may still face other compatibility holds. Users are advised to wait for Microsoft to remove these blocks instead of attempting manual installations. Additionally, some Alder Lake+ PCs may need to update Easy Anti-Cheat to install the 24H2 update, which can be triggered by launching a frequently played game. While progress has been made in resolving these issues, not all update blocks have been lifted, and the timeline for removing the remaining compatibility holds is uncertain.

Winsage

April 25, 2025

Microsoft’s Patch for Symlink Vulnerability Introduces New Windows Denial-of-Service Flaw

In early April 2025, Microsoft addressed a security vulnerability (CVE-2025-21204) related to symbolic links in the Windows servicing stack, specifically affecting the c:inetpub directory used by Internet Information Services (IIS). The updates created the c:inetpub folder with appropriate permissions to mitigate risks. However, this fix introduced a new denial-of-service (DoS) vulnerability, allowing non-administrative users to create junction points on the c: drive, disrupting the Windows Update mechanism. A command such as "mklink /j c:inetpub c:windowssystem32notepad.exe" could be used to exploit this flaw, preventing systems from receiving future security patches. As of April 25, Microsoft had not released a patch or acknowledged the issue, leaving systems vulnerable and emphasizing the need for monitoring user permissions and manually removing suspicious symlinks.

Winsage

April 7, 2025

Microsoft blocks latest Windows 11 24H2 update due to driver crashes

Microsoft is addressing complications from the Windows 11 24H2 update caused by an incompatible driver, sprotect.sys, developed by SenseShield Technology. This driver, used for encryption protection, has led to significant issues, including blue screen errors and black screen crashes. The problematic driver versions are 1.0.2.372 and 1.0.3.48903. Microsoft has implemented an update block (ID number 56318982) to prevent affected systems from receiving the Windows 11 24H2 update. They are collaborating with SenseShield Technology to resolve these issues and restore update eligibility for users.

Winsage

March 20, 2025

Microsoft removes another roadblock for Windows 11 24H2

Microsoft has lifted the security block on the rollout of Windows 11 24H2 for users with Asphalt 8 installed, which was previously implemented due to the game crashing or becoming unresponsive after the update. The update blocker ID for IT administrators is 52796746. Microsoft confirmed that the problem has been resolved and the update block has been removed. It may take up to 48 hours for the update to become available via Windows Update, and restarting the device can expedite this process. Users still facing issues can try a Registry/Group Policy hack to update directly.

Winsage

March 20, 2025

Windows 11 24H2 finally available on PCs with this unusual game installed

Microsoft has lifted the update block for Windows 11 version 24H2 that previously affected users with the game Asphalt 8: Airborne installed on their PCs. The block was in place due to the game becoming unresponsive after the update, requiring frequent restarts. Users can now upgrade to version 24H2, and it may take up to 48 hours for the update to appear in Windows Update. Restarting the device may expedite the process. Microsoft has previously issued similar update blocks for other software and hardware issues.