Windows 11 24H2 has surfaced with a series of compatibility challenges, particularly impacting users of Dell and Asus PCs, though other hardware may also be affected. Dell has reported that the latest update leads to issues with shutdown and sleep functions, which can prevent the computer from powering down correctly.
This concern was initially highlighted by Windows Latest and subsequently confirmed by Dell. The malfunction occurs specifically when the Dell Encryption application is installed and the system is upgraded to Windows 11 24H2. As a result, both hibernation and shutdown features fail to operate as intended.
In a support document, Dell stated, “when Dell Encryption v11.10 is installed on Windows 11 24H2, the Hibernate function does not put the computer into hibernation, and shutdown does not shut the computer down.” Furthermore, the company noted that versions v11.9 and earlier of Dell Encryption are not compatible with the 24H2 update and should be avoided on affected devices.
Despite the challenges posed by the update, Dell is proactively addressing the situation. The company is rolling out an updated version of Dell Encryption, which will be automatically downloaded and installed to mitigate these issues. Dell is also monitoring for outdated OEM software, aiming to ensure users do not encounter complications with Windows 11 24H2.
It remains uncertain whether similar problems exist with other encryption software. Notably, Windows 11 24H2 activates Bitlocker encryption by default on clean installations, irrespective of the Windows edition in use.
Dolby Digital stops working after Windows 11 24H2
Another significant change accompanying Windows 11 24H2 involves the Dolby Audio system. Reports indicate that the update removes Dolby audio decoders, which can disrupt audio playback on certain devices, particularly those undergoing a clean installation of the operating system.
Microsoft has confirmed to Windows Latest that Dolby Audio decoders will no longer be preinstalled in Windows starting with the 24H2 update. This alteration has been acknowledged by Asus, which has expressed its commitment to maintaining exceptional audio quality.
Asus has advised users to manually install Dolby Digital (also referred to as Dolby AC-3) and Dolby Digital Plus (known as Enhanced AC-3, E-AC-3) if they find that the necessary drivers are absent following the Windows 11 2024 Update. To restore Dolby audio functionality on an ASUS device, users should first verify if their product supports Dolby audio by visiting the official ASUS website or checking the MyASUS app.
If the device supports Dolby audio and was shipped with a factory-installed Windows system, the necessary Dolby audio decoders should already be included in the pre-installed audio drivers, requiring no further action. Conversely, for devices that did not come with a factory-installed Windows system, users must download the audio drivers specific to their model from the ASUS support site. After installation, connecting the device to the internet will allow the Dolby audio decoders to download automatically from the Microsoft Store.
These steps were previously unnecessary, as Windows 11 originally included the required Dolby drivers, a convenience that has been altered with the introduction of the 24H2 update.
