upgrade block Archives

Winsage

April 7, 2025

Windows 11 24H2 blocked on PCs with code-obfuscation driver BSODs

Microsoft has implemented a safeguard hold for Windows 11 version 24H2 for systems using the sprotect.sys driver from SenseShield Technology, to prevent crashes and BSOD errors due to compatibility issues. This hold blocks the Windows 11 2024 Update from being delivered via Windows Update. Affected users can identify their systems using the safeguard ID: 56318982 and should not attempt manual updates until the issue is resolved. Microsoft has previously lifted other compatibility holds for specific user groups and has enacted additional upgrade blocks due to incompatible software or hardware.

Winsage

April 6, 2025

Microsoft blocks Windows 11 24H2 update on some new PCs

Microsoft has informed Windows 10 users that their devices are not eligible for an upgrade to Windows 11 due to system requirements and recommends transitioning to a new PC with Windows 11. A new compatibility issue has arisen with the sprotect.sys driver, causing system freezes and errors on Windows 11 version 24H2, leading Microsoft to impose a compatibility hold on affected devices. This hold prevents these devices from being prompted to install Windows 11, version 24H2. Users with impacted devices will see a notification on the Windows Update page indicating no immediate action is required. IT administrators can monitor the issue using safeguard ID 56318982. Microsoft advises against forcing the update if the system is incompatible and is working with SenseShield Technology Co. to resolve the issue.

Winsage

March 28, 2025

Windows 11 roadmap? Great for next week but not next year

Microsoft has released a roadmap for Windows 11 that outlines enhancements and features through April 2025, aiming to improve transparency in its development processes. The roadmap highlights the need for clarity on upcoming releases to help IT professionals manage changes, though the timeline for new features raises concerns due to their proximity to release dates. The Improved Voice Access feature is scheduled for a non-security update in April 2025. The Copilot+ PC platform, which will host these features, has not gained significant market traction, potentially leaving administrators unprepared for implementation. Several features, such as Click to Do and Recall, have remained in preview since November 2024 without clear timelines for general availability. The roadmap appears to focus more on consumer-oriented features, with IT professionals seeking clarity on enterprise-critical functionalities and issues like disruptions to printing capabilities. Microsoft has indicated that the roadmap's initial focus is on client devices, with future announcements anticipated, including a potential "Windows Server 2025 surprise installation" and the removal of the Windows 10 upgrade block around October 2025.

Winsage

March 20, 2025

Microsoft lifts Windows 11 upgrade block after Asphalt 8 crash fix

Microsoft has lifted an upgrade block that prevented players of Asphalt 8: Airborne from transitioning to Windows 11 24H2 due to compatibility issues. The game had over 322,000 ratings and around 470 million players, but users experienced freezing issues and error messages after the Windows update. A compatibility hold was implemented, identified by safeguard ID 52796746, which affected devices running versions 22H2 and 23H2. Microsoft announced that the known issue has been addressed and the safeguard hold has been lifted, with the update expected to be offered within 48 hours. Additionally, Microsoft removed a block related to the Easy Anti-Cheat app affecting Intel Alder Lake+ processors, and lifted restrictions for AutoCAD users and PCs with Auto HDR enabled. The company is also working on resolving other compatibility concerns related to various software and hardware.