update challenges Archives

Winsage

November 17, 2025

Windows 11 KB5068861 won’t install, File Explorer SMB search not working on network shares, and other issues

Windows 11 users are facing installation issues with the KB5068861 update from the November 2025 Patch Tuesday release, which addresses 63 critical security vulnerabilities. Errors reported include 0x80070306, 0x800f0983, and 0x800f081f. Affected users can wait for an optional release or use the Media Creation Tool, which downloads the same patch. Some users have reported a malfunctioning SMB search feature after the update. The installation errors have prompted reports of specific error codes, and attempts to resolve them through SFC scans or health checks have been largely ineffective. Downloading the .msu package from the Microsoft Update Catalog is recommended, followed by an installation attempt. If unsuccessful, the Media Creation Tool can be used while retaining user data. The November 2025 Update includes enhancements like a revamped Start menu, improved battery icons, and performance improvements, particularly for gamers. However, some users have encountered Bluetooth connectivity issues, especially on AMD PCs, with a temporary fix involving adjustments in Device Manager. The KB5068861 update has also caused a bug affecting search functionality over shared networks, leading to slower search results or empty listings for businesses. This issue arises from a breakdown in communication between the Windows client and the server’s search index. Users can restore functionality by restarting the Windows Search service or rebuilding the index. Additionally, the remote search functionality over SMB is compromised, preventing the Windows client from utilizing the server’s index. Users may need to uninstall the update to restore functionality, which requires disabling the Sandbox feature first. Specific DISM commands can be used to identify and remove the update, or it can be uninstalled through the Settings menu.

Winsage

October 29, 2025

Microsoft fixes 0x800F081F errors causing Windows update failures

Microsoft has resolved an issue affecting Windows 11 24H2 systems that resulted in update failures with error code 0x800F081F, linked to missing language packs and feature payloads after the KB5050094 January 2025 preview cumulative update. The problem was acknowledged on October 15, and a fix was provided through the KB5067036 October 2025 preview update. For IT administrators unable to install the latest updates, a temporary workaround involves performing an In-Place Upgrade using Windows installation media or through Windows Settings. Additionally, since the start of the year, Microsoft has addressed several other update-related challenges, including issues with installing security updates via WSUS and failures when using the Windows Update Standalone Installer.

Winsage

October 26, 2025

Microsoft Issues 2 Emergency Windows Updates—What You Do Now

Microsoft has ended support for Windows 10, prompting users to transition to Windows 11, which has faced significant challenges, including a problematic October security update that caused issues with localhost connections and rendered peripherals inoperable. Microsoft released emergency update KB5070773 to address these problems, and users are advised to install it immediately to avoid recovery mode issues. Following this update, Windows 11 version 25H2 will upgrade to Build 26200.6901, and version 24H2 will upgrade to 26100.6901. Additionally, a second emergency update addresses a critical remote code execution vulnerability (CVE-2025-59287) affecting Windows Server Update Service (WSUS) across several Windows Server versions, with a deadline of November 14 for federal agencies to implement necessary updates.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Microsoft wants Windows Update to handle all apps

Microsoft is introducing a new orchestration platform for Windows Update that will allow developers to manage updates for applications and drivers more effectively. This platform will enable developers to enroll in a private preview and is designed to support updates for a wide range of applications, particularly business applications. Currently, Windows Update focuses on core operating system components and essential drivers. The new platform aims to streamline the update process by allowing developers to schedule updates based on user activity and other factors. Developers will also be able to connect their applications with Windows Update notifications, ensuring visibility in the update history. Microsoft plans to support MSIX, APPX, and certain custom Win32 applications within this framework. The initiative follows previous efforts to encourage developers to list applications in the Microsoft Store, which has seen limited adoption for some proprietary applications. Additionally, the Windows Package Manager has been introduced to tackle app installation and update challenges, although its use has been mainly among power users and developers.

Winsage

May 1, 2025

Windows 11 update failure stops machines from updating to version 24H2 using WSUS

Business and enterprise users are facing challenges upgrading to Windows 11 24H2 due to an issue stemming from an update released on April 8th, which primarily affects machines using Windows Server Update Services (WSUS). Windows 11 Home users are not impacted by this issue. Microsoft is investigating a fix but has not yet provided a solution, leaving users who installed the April 8th update unable to upgrade. The affected versions of Windows 11 include 23H2 and 22H2.

Winsage

April 30, 2025

Microsoft: Windows 11 24H2 updates fail with 0x80240069 errors

Microsoft has acknowledged a significant issue affecting enterprise users trying to upgrade to Windows 11 24H2 via Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) after installing the April 2025 security updates, specifically the monthly security update KB5055528. Users with Windows 11 23H2 or 22H2 are encountering Windows Update Service errors with the code 0x80240069, preventing the download process for Windows 11 24H2 from initiating or completing. Microsoft confirmed that devices with the April security update might be unable to update via WSUS. WSUS, primarily used in enterprise settings, has been deprecated as of September 2024, but Microsoft will continue to support existing functionalities. Additionally, Microsoft is addressing a "latent code issue" that has caused some devices to upgrade to Windows 11 despite Intune policies against such upgrades.

Winsage

March 25, 2025

First signs of Windows 11 25H2? Here’s what we know so far

Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 24H2 as support for Windows 10 is ending. Some users are hesitant due to reported issues with Bluetooth audio, File Explorer glitches, and system crashes, leading them to consider waiting for the anticipated Windows 11 25H2 update. Microsoft has announced advancements in the Dev Channel to the "26200 series builds," which are based on the 24H2 framework, but has not confirmed the 25H2 update. The 26200 build series indicates potential significant changes, but it is unclear whether 25H2 will be an enablement package or a full OS transition. Microsoft has not provided a release timeline for 25H2, but historically, major updates are expected in September or October, coinciding with the end of Windows 10 support.