In December, Microsoft acknowledged a known issue affecting users attempting to install security updates or Patch Tuesdays on Windows 11 version 24H2. This problem primarily impacted those who had installed the operating system using media such as CDs or USB drives. Specifically, users encountered difficulties when trying to update following the October 2024 Patch Tuesday (KB5044284) and the November 2024 Patch Tuesday (KB5046617). Notably, even those who utilized the official Media Creation Tool were not exempt from this issue.
Microsoft clarified that installations performed through Windows Update or the Update Catalog website remained unaffected by this complication. To mitigate the issue, the company suggested a workaround: simply refrain from installing the October and November patches. At that time, Microsoft indicated that it was actively investigating the matter and would provide further updates in due course.
Resolution and Workaround
Recently, Microsoft has marked this issue as “resolved,” although the underlying cause appears to remain unaddressed. The previously suggested workaround has now been rephrased as the official resolution:
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.
Resolution: To prevent this issue, do not install Windows 11, version 24H2 using media that installs the October 2024 or November 2024 security updates. If a device becomes unable to receive further updates as a result of this issue, it can be remediated by re-installing Windows 11, version 24H2, using media which instead includes the December 2024 monthly security update (released December 10, 2024), or later.
In defense of Microsoft, one might speculate that delving into the root of the problem could be too cumbersome, especially under time constraints. This may explain the company’s decision to redirect its focus toward other pressing issues.
In related developments, Microsoft recently unveiled a new PowerShell script designed for updated Windows 11, 10, and Server boot media, further enhancing its suite of tools for users and administrators alike.
