Microsoft Resolves Reboot Loop Issue in Windows 11 Update
Microsoft has successfully addressed a known issue that was causing reboot loops and taskbar problems for users after a Windows 11 update. The problem had forced Microsoft to pause the Windows 11 23H2 update rollout on June 27, impacting Windows 11 22H2 as well. However, with an update released on July 9, the bug has been squashed.
The reboot loop problem primarily affected users utilizing virtual machine tools and virtualization features like CloudPC, DevBox, and Azure Virtual Desktop. Some users also reported issues with VMware virtual machines. Interestingly, Windows Home edition users were less likely to encounter the bug due to the lower prevalence of virtualization in those environments.
Many users found it frustrating that they may have unwittingly installed the update causing the boot loop. Microsoft had initiated a forced rollout of the Windows 11 2023 Update in February, leaving users with limited options to avoid it. Turning off the Windows Update service or disconnecting from the internet were not feasible solutions for most.
Despite the bug being relatively contained, Microsoft has now resumed the update rollout, except for users running virtualization software. With the bug fix in place, the forced rollout is expected to continue for all Windows 11 computers.
The July 9 update also addresses a Taskbar issue affecting Windows N Edition users or those who had disabled Media Features. After installing the update, affected users should no longer encounter problems with the Taskbar failing to load upon boot up.
However, a known issue from Microsoft’s June updates still lingers. In this case, the Photos app may fail to start when BlockNonAdminUserInstall is enabled, affecting devices updating the app from the Windows store on or after June 4, 2024. Once again, Windows Home users are unlikely to be impacted by this particular bug.
