Microsoft is currently piloting a new dedicated page within Windows Settings aimed at enhancing machine recovery processes. This feature, located under System > Recovery, promises to offer users a streamlined approach to managing recovery options, allowing for greater control over how their devices respond to issues.
Enhanced Recovery Management
According to Amanda Langowski and Brandon LeBlanc from Microsoft, this update is designed to simplify the management of recovery options directly from the Settings menu. Users will now have the ability to:
- Toggle the recovery feature on or off
- Configure automatic searches for available solutions
- Set the frequency of these checks
- Determine when the device should restart to implement necessary fixes
This functionality is currently being rolled out to the Beta Channel for Windows Insiders using Windows 11 24H2, specifically those who have installed the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.4230 (KB5058506). Additionally, Microsoft has announced that quick machine recovery will soon be accessible to Insiders in the Dev Channel, allowing them to test the feature without risking system failures through the use of test remediation payloads in “test mode.”
Microsoft is actively seeking feedback from Insiders via the Feedback Hub, specifically under the Recovery and Uninstall > Quick Machine Recovery section.
Quick machine recovery (QMR) was first introduced in November as part of Microsoft’s Windows Resiliency Initiative during Ignite 2024. This initiative was a direct response to a significant outage in July 2024, which was triggered by a problematic CrowdStrike Falcon update that left numerous Windows devices unable to boot.
The testing phase for QMR began in late March, targeting Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel. This feature allows IT administrators to address Windows boot issues through Windows Update “targeted fixes,” eliminating the need for physical access to affected systems.
When activated, QMR will boot the device into the Windows Recovery Environment and initiate the Quick Machine Recovery Tool if Windows 11 fails to start due to a new driver or configuration change. The tool connects to the Internet to send crash data back to Microsoft, enabling remote fixes by removing troublesome drivers or updates and adjusting system settings.
Looking ahead, Microsoft plans to enable QMR by default in Windows 11 Home editions, while enterprise customers will have the flexibility to customize its functionality in Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise through the Intune Settings Catalog UI.
