Microsoft has recently addressed users of Windows 10 devices that will not be eligible for an upgrade to Windows 11 due to unmet system requirements. The company encourages these users to consider transitioning to a new PC equipped with Windows 11.
Compatibility Challenges with Windows 11
Despite the allure of Windows 11, users may encounter hurdles, particularly with the latest feature update, version 24H2. Last month, Microsoft lifted an upgrade block related to gaming, identified by safeguard hold ID 52796746. However, a new compatibility issue has emerged, prompting the company to impose a block on certain new devices.
This recent challenge stems from the sprotect.sys driver, which has been found to cause system freezes and errors such as blue or black screens on Windows 11 version 24H2. The sprotect.sys driver is integral to encryption protection and is utilized by various specialized security software and enterprise solutions. It can be automatically installed with numerous applications, affecting devices running versions 1.0.2.372 and 1.0.3.48903 of the driver.
To ensure a smoother update experience, Microsoft has implemented a compatibility hold on devices affected by the incompatible sprotect.sys driver. Consequently, these devices will not be prompted to install Windows 11, version 24H2 through the Windows Update release channel.
For users with Home or Pro Windows devices impacted by this hold, a notification will appear on the Windows Update page under Settings, indicating that no immediate action is required. IT administrators utilizing Windows Update for Business can reference safeguard ID 56318982 to monitor this issue.
As always, Microsoft advises against forcing an update to Windows 11 version 24H2 if the system is not compatible. The company is actively collaborating with SenseShield Technology Co. to resolve this issue, and further details can be found on Microsoft’s Windows health dashboard website.
