If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11 and find yourself unable to install the latest security updates, you’re not alone in this predicament. A bug within the recent installation media for Windows 11 appears to be the culprit, preventing future security updates from being applied during the installation process. This unfortunate glitch leaves many users stuck with outdated security measures.
Understanding the Issue
Microsoft has acknowledged the problem, attributing it to the use of installation media that includes the October 2024 or November 2024 security patches. Specifically, this issue arises when Windows 11 is installed using media created in the last few months that incorporates these updates. The company has detailed the situation on its known issues website, stating:
“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). Please note, this only occurs when utilizing media – such as CD and USB flash drives – to install Windows 11, version 24H2. This issue does not occur for devices where the October 2024 security update or the November 2024 security updates are installed via Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog website.”
For those looking to perform a clean installation of Windows 11, Microsoft advises steering clear of any installation media that contains the aforementioned security patches. Instead, users should seek out media that includes either the September 2024 or December 2024 security patch.
Potential Solutions
While the company is actively working on a resolution, some users have reported success by utilizing the “Fix Windows Update” button found in the Recovery section of the Windows Settings app. If you’re facing difficulties with recent security updates, this could be a viable option to explore.
Additionally, the official Windows 11 ISO tool is designed to generate an installation image that does not include the problematic security patches. Therefore, it remains a safe choice for those aiming to create a clean install image at this time.
