Microsoft Acknowledges Issues with Windows Updates
In a recent admission, Microsoft has recognized potential disruptions to key Windows components, including the Start menu and Explorer, stemming from its latest updates. This situation predominantly impacts a select group of enterprise or managed environments, specifically those operating on Windows 11 versions 24H2 or 25H2, following the monthly cumulative update released in July 2025.
The crux of the issue lies in the failure to register certain XAML packages promptly after the installation of updates. As a result, users may encounter abrupt crashes or loading failures in XAML-dependent modern applications, which encompass the Start menu, Explorer, Windows Search, and the taskbar.
Unfortunately, Microsoft has not provided an immediate solution. The recommended workaround involves navigating the Windows registry for virtualized environments or employing a PowerShell script to delay the launch of Explorer until the necessary packages are fully provisioned.
Affected users might experience a range of frustrating symptoms, including:
- A black screen or startup crash when Explorer attempts to load.
- The Start menu failing to open.
- The taskbar not appearing on the desktop.
- Crashes or failures in any app reliant on XAML.
Microsoft has assured users that they are actively working on a resolution, promising updates as more information becomes available. Interestingly, the company noted that these issues are “very unlikely to occur on personal devices used by individuals,” though the unpredictability of technology leaves room for exceptions.
According to Microsoft, the complications may arise if Windows updates are installed prior to a first-time user logging onto a persistent OS installation, or before all users have logged into a non-persistent OS installation, such as Virtual Desktop Infrastructure. While there is a workaround for administrators to implement when support calls arise, the fact that fundamental aspects of the user experience have been compromised is certainly not an ideal scenario for Microsoft, especially given that these problems trace back to updates from July 2025.
In light of this situation, one might typically reference the company’s “legendary approach to quality control.” However, as always, the insightful readers of The Register have offered more colorful commentary. Paul Herber’s quip, “Well, it compiles!” encapsulates the sentiment of many affected administrators as they face yet another challenge with Windows updates.
Latest Windows 11 updates may break the OS’s most basic bits
Microsoft Acknowledges Issues with Windows Updates
In a recent admission, Microsoft has recognized potential disruptions to key Windows components, including the Start menu and Explorer, stemming from its latest updates. This situation predominantly impacts a select group of enterprise or managed environments, specifically those operating on Windows 11 versions 24H2 or 25H2, following the monthly cumulative update released in July 2025.
The crux of the issue lies in the failure to register certain XAML packages promptly after the installation of updates. As a result, users may encounter abrupt crashes or loading failures in XAML-dependent modern applications, which encompass the Start menu, Explorer, Windows Search, and the taskbar.
Unfortunately, Microsoft has not provided an immediate solution. The recommended workaround involves navigating the Windows registry for virtualized environments or employing a PowerShell script to delay the launch of Explorer until the necessary packages are fully provisioned.
Affected users might experience a range of frustrating symptoms, including:
Microsoft has assured users that they are actively working on a resolution, promising updates as more information becomes available. Interestingly, the company noted that these issues are “very unlikely to occur on personal devices used by individuals,” though the unpredictability of technology leaves room for exceptions.
According to Microsoft, the complications may arise if Windows updates are installed prior to a first-time user logging onto a persistent OS installation, or before all users have logged into a non-persistent OS installation, such as Virtual Desktop Infrastructure. While there is a workaround for administrators to implement when support calls arise, the fact that fundamental aspects of the user experience have been compromised is certainly not an ideal scenario for Microsoft, especially given that these problems trace back to updates from July 2025.
In light of this situation, one might typically reference the company’s “legendary approach to quality control.” However, as always, the insightful readers of The Register have offered more colorful commentary. Paul Herber’s quip, “Well, it compiles!” encapsulates the sentiment of many affected administrators as they face yet another challenge with Windows updates.