Microsoft has acknowledged issues stemming from the August security update for Windows 11, specifically the KB5121003 release. Users have reported that after installing this update, certain games may experience freezing, unexpected closures without error messages, or even lead to complete system restarts. The affected versions, Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2, have been linked to complications arising from drivers and software associated with specific RGB-enabled peripherals or internal components.
Released on August 11, KB5121003 upgrades Windows 11 24H2 to build 26100.9168 and Windows 11 25H2 to build 26200.9168. This update is not an optional Preview but rather a standard monthly security update that is automatically distributed via Windows Update. Microsoft officially acknowledged the known issue in the release notes on August 20.
inpoutx64.sys as the common denominator
While Microsoft has not pinpointed any specific RGB software as the sole culprit, investigations suggest that affected systems may utilize drivers or components with filenames similar to inpoutx64. These drivers provide applications with direct access to hardware and have historically been employed by various RGB and hardware control programs. Games that have been explicitly mentioned include ARC Raiders, MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and THE FINALS. Users have reported symptoms ranging from game freezes and silent program terminations to EXCEPTIONACCESSVIOLATION errors, with some instances resulting in complete Windows restarts. This indicates that the issue is not a widespread problem with the Windows graphics interface or tied to a specific GPU manufacturer; rather, it appears to stem from the interplay between the new Windows update, certain games, and low-level drivers installed on the system.
Embark Studios, the developer behind THE FINALS, has proactively released a support guide addressing the issue. They confirm a connection between KB5121003 and inpoutx64.sys. As a temporary workaround, users are advised to stop and remove the corresponding service. The file located at C:WindowsSystem32driversinpoutx64.sys can then be deleted. Additionally, Embark suggests the optional removal of the related registry entry, though this should be approached with caution. Since the driver was installed by an application or hardware tool, its removal could disrupt the functionality of RGB, fan, or hardware control features. Therefore, it is recommended to first check if the software manufacturer has released an updated version. Some users have also found success in uninstalling KB5121003, although Microsoft does not endorse this method, as it would eliminate critical security fixes included in the update.
No final fix yet
As of now, Microsoft is continuing its investigation into the interactions causing these issues and has yet to provide a definitive patch. Affected users are encouraged to submit error reports through the Feedback Hub. The timeline for a corrected Windows version or an updated driver remains uncertain. This situation underscores a recurring challenge with hardware tools that require deep system integration. RGB, sensor, and fan-control programs often demand extensive hardware access, and the introduction of new security mechanisms, anti-cheat systems, or modifications to the Windows kernel can lead to unforeseen conflicts with older drivers.
