Microsoft has recently acknowledged a new issue affecting users of Windows 11 version 24H2, the latest feature update for its desktop operating system. This problem arises specifically for those who have installed the OS using external media such as CDs or USB drives.
Details of the Installation Issue
Users attempting to install security updates, particularly those released during the October 2024 Patch Tuesday (KB5044284) and the November 2024 Patch Tuesday (KB5046617), may find themselves unable to do so if they utilized media for installation. This situation also extends to individuals who employed the official Media Creation Tool for their installation process.
Microsoft has clarified that this issue does not affect installations conducted via Windows Update or the Update Catalog website. In their communication, the company noted:
When using media to install Windows 11, version 24H2, the device might remain in a state where it cannot accept further Windows security updates. This occurs only when the media is created to include the October 2024, or November 2024, security updates as part of the installation (these updates were released between October 8, 2024, and November 12, 2024).
It is important to emphasize that this complication is exclusive to installations performed with external media like CDs and USB flash drives. Devices that receive the October or November security updates through Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog are not impacted.
Proposed Workaround
To navigate around this issue, Microsoft has proposed a workaround for users who prefer to install the operating system via USB or CD. The recommendation is to avoid the installation of Windows 11, version 24H2, with the October and November security updates. Instead, users should ensure that their installation media incorporates the December 2024 monthly security update, which was released on December 10, 2024, or any subsequent updates.
Workaround: To prevent issues, do not install Windows 11, version 24H2 which installs the October 2024 or November 2024 security updates. Instead, ensure that media used to install Windows 11, version 24H2, includes the December 2024 monthly security update (released December 10, 2024), or later.
Microsoft is actively investigating this matter and has committed to providing further updates as they become available. For ongoing information, users can refer to the official Windows Health dashboard on Microsoft’s website.
