Recent update issue
A September 26, 2024, Windows 11 update, KB5043145, has caused blue screens, frozen PCs, and reboot loops for some users. It has also led to USB and Bluetooth devices, including keyboards, mice, and headphones, ceasing functionality. Some users reported needing to reinstall Windows due to system file corruption, and others experienced problems with Wi-Fi and software like VirtualBox and Linux features.
The Automatic Repair tool might be activated automatically if a PC enters a reboot loop, and BitLocker recovery can also be triggered in some cases. Similar problems occurred with the June update, KB5039302, which was pulled after causing reboot loops on systems using virtualization.
I suggest disabling BitLocker (Device Encryption) to prevent issues during major Windows updates. Encryption can interfere with the update process during reboots, leading to failures. After the update completes, encryption can be re-enabled.
Drive encryption is enabled by default on some newer computers and may be enforced by organizations to comply with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA
Issues with upgrade to Windows 10 in 2015
One of my customers was tempted to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 for free. After following the link from an official Microsoft email on the Windows 10 release date, the downloading and installation process took a turn, resulting in the loss of access to his computer.
The Windows 10 upgrade wiped out all passwords, including the Windows 7 login password, Live Mail credentials, and Skype login. Only Firefox saved passwords remained intact. Additionally, icons became unrecognizable, and to make matters worse, Windows 10 disabled the existing antivirus software. After recovering the Windows password, I had to reinstall everything from scratch, fortunately recovering all the data.
Windows 10 was also missing the familiar Windows 7 Start Menu, forcing the use of Windows Search to access previously installed programs. But what happens if you can't remember which programs you have? This could lead to Windows becoming cluttered with redundant software. Aside from the loss of passwords, the Start Menu, and the creepy black taskbar, we noticed no improvements in Windows 10, not even the advertised speed, which closely resembled Windows 7.
Other issues reported caused by Windows 10 upgrade
- Automatic Updates can get stuck in endless loop. A registry tweak required to fix that.
- A buggy graphics driver can be forcibly installed causing crashes.
- A WiFi driver can be forcibly installed, and WiFi connection can be lost, that particular one can happen because of third-party network drivers such as work or business VPN drivers been installed on Windows 7.
2015 - 2024