In late December 2024, Microsoft acknowledged a significant issue affecting the installation of updates on certain Windows 11 devices. This problem has since been designated as resolved, yet the company has not provided a definitive solution for the impacted users.
Understanding the Issue
The complications arise specifically for devices that were set up using installation media containing the October or November 2024 security updates. The criteria for affected devices include:
- Windows 11 was installed using media.
- The installation media included the October 2024 or November 2024 security updates.
- Only devices running Windows 11, version 24H2 are impacted.
Installation media is commonly utilized for setting up Windows 11 on new PCs, often burned onto DVDs or copied onto USB drives. The issue is not limited to Microsoft’s official Windows 11 Media Creation Tool; it also extends to third-party solutions like Rufus. Advanced users who have integrated security updates into their installation media may also find themselves affected.
Microsoft’s Workaround
In December, Microsoft proposed a workaround that involves reinstalling Windows 11 on affected devices using updated installation media. According to the company, media that includes the December 2024 security updates or later will not trigger the issue. Microsoft advises, “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 reinstalling Windows 11, version 24H2, using media which instead includes the December 2024 monthly security update (released December 10, 2024), or later.”
This workaround, however, is less than ideal. Affected users must undertake the entire reinstallation process, which raises concerns about potential data loss or disruption of work on the primary system partition. Notably, Microsoft does not reference the reset functionality of Windows 11 as a possible remedy, leaving users with limited options.
Resolved, but Not Fixed
As of February 6, 2025, Microsoft has marked the issue regarding the installation media as resolved. However, the absence of detailed instructions or a clear method to restore update functionality on affected devices suggests that the problem may not be fully addressed. While the release of the December 2024 security updates indicates progress, the lack of transparency from Microsoft regarding the issue has left many users feeling uneasy.
What is your take on this? Should Microsoft provide more information to customers? Feel free to leave a comment down below.
