Latest Windows Update Problems and How to Fix Them

Windows 10 and Windows 11 have had their share of problems. According to the Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC), the operating system experienced nearly 1280 security vulnerabilities in 2023. Microsoft quickly moves in to fix many of these security holes in the system, so it’s essential to stay up to date. Yet, Windows updates can bring their own problems. This guide shows what to do when an update does more harm than good.

Note: if a problem here is marked as “FIXED,” it means Microsoft has rolled out an update that fixes the problem, and the solution is simply to make sure your system is fully updated. If a problem is not yet “FIXED,” then either read that entry for workarounds to that specific problem or scroll down the page for advice on how to roll back updates.

[Not Fixed] June 25, 2024, Windows 11 Version 23H2, KB5039302 Cumulative Update

Problems: Login error with Error code 0xd0000225 | OS upgrade failure | High system usage due to WFP drivers

The Windows 11 cumulative update, KB5039302, came with a total of 9 fixes compared to the previous updates. These fixes address issues with the Snipping Tool, which caused distortions in video recording. Additionally, there was a USB ejection problem where the Safely Remove hardware option would fail. Notably, the File Explorer now supports compression using 7-Zip and Tape Archive (TAR) directly from the context menu.

While this update should pass incident-free for most users, some have reported login errors with code 0xd0000225. It prevents you from using a PIN to sign into the devices.

The solution is to restart your device using its boot keys, which vary from device to device, and open Command Prompt in Administrator mode, and run the following two commands in succession. After a simple reboot, you can enter the device with a password. After this, you can reset your PIN.

icacls C:\Windows\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Ngc /T /Q /C /RESET

Ren C:\Windows\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Ngc Ngc.old

Other users have experienced issues with OS upgrade failure while migrating from Windows Pro to Windows Enterprise. If it isn’t essential, you should delay this OS upgrade for a month or two, so that Microsoft arranges a proper fix.

Finally, some users have experienced high CPU usage due to Windows Filtering Platform (WFP,) a system in Task Manager. Fortunately, we have some really good solutions for high CPU usage. Also, you should consider optimizing your mouse settings for better click control.

Good news: earlier, Microsoft mandated all Windows 11 users to compulsorily migrate to version 23H2 by Feb. 27, 2024, when non-security support for version 22H2 was scheduled to end. But after several complaints, the date has been moved to June 24, 2025.

[Not Fixed] June 11, 2024, Windows 11 Version 23H2, KB5039212 Cumulative Update

Problems: Update fails to install | System crashes and freezes

KB5039212, the Patch Tuesday update for the month of June, fixes some of the issues of last month. These include the administrator not being able to change the user profile picture, and past issues with Firefox and NVIDIA drivers. It also addresses the problem of taskbar disappearing suddenly. In any case, if you’re dealing with an unresponsive taskbar, follow this detailed guide.

However, there have been reports of installation failures, and system crashes and freezes. To deal with them, try disabling antivirus other than Windows Defender, and solve any critical process errors, as that is often the cause of system slowdowns. We have a list of hardware and software solutions to deal with PC freezes and crashes.

With KB5039212, there have also been failures to install Windows updates on the device. Opting for a cloud-based device reset (while keeping your files) is the best way to deal with any installation errors, but it consumes a lot of time. If you’re going to install an update with possible system freezes and a stuck installation, it’s a good idea to run the Windows 11 Update Troubleshooter first. Find it by navigating to System -> Troubleshoot -> Other troubleshooters.

The troubleshooter will fix any issues that were preventing installation, but mostly security settings, missing or corrupt files, or problems with Service Registration. Other issues could be connected to Windows Network Diagnostics, IsPostback_RC_PendingUpdates, WaaSMedicService, and BITS service.

Note: if you’ve missed many updates, we recommend reinstalling Windows 11 from the cloud via Windows installation assistant, ISO, media creation or another tool. Also, if you can’t install an update on your PC on your normal schedule, it’s always easier to do it from the Microsoft Update Catalog.

[Fixed] May 29, 2024, Windows 11 Version 23H2, KB5037853 Cumulative Update

Problems: Taskbar failure | Explorer.exe issues

The last cumulative update in the month of May was expected to give us a sneak peek into version 24H2, but that didn’t happen. However, the update still added some minor yet interesting features.

The most prominent of these was Linked Devices, accessible via Settings –> Accounts, to locate all your connected Microsoft devices. It’s also linked to Find My Device. Another interesting feature now lets you create QR codes directly from Windows Share Options on Microsoft Edge browser.

The biggest problem with KB5037853 is that the taskbar would suddenly disappear and appear again. Fortunately, this issue has been properly resolved in the June Patch Tuesday update, which you can check above. Other users have encountered the explorer.exe system error. It mostly happens due to a path specified error, which you can solve using one of our methods.

Also read: curious about the 24H2 update for Windows 11? It may include support for Wi-Fi 7, the ability to create 7-Zip and TAR archives directly in File Explorer, and enhanced connectivity for Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) audio devices.

[Fixed] May 14, 2024, Windows 11 Version 23H2, KB5037771 Cumulative Update

Problems: NVIDIA drivers not working | Firefox issues | PC freezing with beeping sounds | User account profile picture can’t be changed | Broken start and Windows search | .NET component fails to install

Microsoft’s Patch Tuesday update for May, KB5037771 addresses an issue with VPN connection failing, and where you couldn’t service boot files in AMD-Ryzen. If your update service files are missing, we have you covered.

The update was also having issues with a user’s account profile picture not changing. It has been fixed now. There were also Firefox browser issues. Sometimes, inadequate or underutilized RAM is what causes the browser issues. You might need to test your current RAM performance to fix this.

At the same time, some users reported a problematic start menu and inaccessible search, both of which are solvable through this guide.

[Fixed] April 23, 2024, Windows 11 Version 23H2, KB5036980 Cumulative Update

Problems: Start menu advertisements | User account profile picture is unchangeable

KB5036980 is the final stage of many useful features in the past few months. The Start menu integrates with Microsoft Store apps so that you spend less time downloading them.

With this update, the Start menu started rolling out advertisements. To avoid this, go to Settings -> Personalization -> Start, and turn off the menu for Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more.

Tip: If you’re facing the infinite reboot loop, follow our detailed troubleshooting. Boot into Windows in safe mode, and perform a repair option. Also, follow our detailed guide to identify and resolve the most common Windows errors.

FYI: If you’ve run into an annoying BSOD crash during a restart, use one of our methods to resolve the issue. To prevent an automatic restart, use one of these methods.

Extra Tips: if you’re facing unexpected shutdowns, try removing schedules for the shutdowns. Learn how to reset all audio settings for any audio-related issues.

Error Code 0x800f0831

Problem: Update fails to install

This is one of the more common errors that may occur when you try to update Windows.

Essentially, the above error code means your update has failed, but there are several options to troubleshoot this problem:

• If there’s a conflict with your VPN or proxy server, make sure it’s completely disabled when trying to update Windows. You may even need to uninstall and reinstall the software.
• Scan for corrupt system files.
• For this and other update errors, try finding the update in the Microsoft Update Catalog, then install it manually.

[Not Fixed] June 25, 2024, Windows 10 Version 22H2, KB5039299 Non-Security Update

Problems: MSIX package for update not working

As Windows 10 is being phased out, despite its widespread use, Microsoft has stopped bringing important features to its updates. KB5039299 solves an issue that used to affect the default Japanese Input Method Editor (IME). Plus, there are some quality improvements in Mobile Device Management (MDM) and taskbar.

The biggest problem with KB5039299 is that some of the update packages for MSIX which governs all Windows app installers, has stopped working. If you’re dealing with a stuck or frozen update, we have the solutions.

[Fixed] May 29, 2024, Windows 10 Version 22H2, KB5037849 Non-Security Update

Problems: Copilot issues | Multi-monitor setup issues

KB5037849 is a minor Windows 10 22H2 update which affects a Microsoft Extra ID account, along with some hardware problems. There are problems with Copilot not aligning with the taskbar and other system tray icons. Also, some users have encountered issues with multi-monitor devices. Here are some of the best ways to optimize your multi-monitor setup.

[Fixed] May 14, 2024, Windows 10 Version 22H2, KB5037768 Servicing Stack Update

Problems: Failure to install | Update stuck at a percentage

The only highlight with KB5037768 was that it failed to install correctly on some older devices, or the progress bar was stuck at a certain percentage value, such as 20 percent. If the update fails to install on your device, use one of the troubleshooting methods in the above Windows 11 section.

[Fixed] April 23, 2024, Windows 10 Version 22H2, KB5036979 Non-Security Update

Problems: User profile conflicts

The KB5036979 update brings some useful features to its Microsoft user accounts. You can now manage your subscriptions more easily without getting locked out. There are a few additional updates for Widgets on the lockscreen and Bluetooth firmware.

But there are security conflicts with your user account which affect your ability to change your picture or get admin access to your account. If your information is lying with one user account, transfer your data to another account seamlessly.

Tip: if you want to deal with the black screen issues, change the advanced power settings, and make slight adjustments in the GPU.

How to Fix and Avoid Broken Windows Updates

If the problem you’ve encountered with a new Windows update is that the install stops at a certain percentage, or more generally, that it’s failing to install altogether, try installing the update from PowerShell.

Open PowerShell as administrator by typing it into the Start menu search. In PowerShell, use this command:

Install-Module PSWindowsUpdate

It may ask you to install and import the NuGet provider. Press Y for Yes, and let it install the package.

You may get a warning that you are installing the modules from an untrusted repository. Type A to allow all the changes.

Check for the latest Windows updates by typing the following into PowerShell:

Get-WindowsUpdate

Once you’ve confirmed that there are updates to install, type the following command. You may further be asked if you want to perform this action, to which you must type A to finalize.

Install-WindowsUpdate

Wait for the broken Windows updates to heal themselves. They will automatically execute in the PowerShell window.

Tip: how does PowerShell differ from Command Prompt? Read on to find out.

Install Optional Updates

If you access the Windows update screen by going to Settings -> Windows Update -> Advanced Options -> Additional Options, you will find the Optional Updates menu.

These updates are designed specifically to address feature, quality, and driver issues for recent Windows updates. They become “proper” updates a few weeks later, once they’ve been thoroughly tested.

These updates are still pretty stable, though, and may be worth a shot if a recent update has broken something in Windows.

Uninstall Windows Updates

You can uninstall smaller Windows updates (to roll back builds, see the next section) if needed.

In Windows 10, go to Control Panel -> Programs -> Programs and Features -> Installed updates.

Scroll down in the main pane to the Microsoft Windows heading, and you’ll see all of the KB and security updates for Windows 10, along with the install dates. Right-click the one you want to uninstall, and reboot your PC.

Windows 11 also has the option to uninstall recent updates. Visit Settings -> Windows Update -> Update History -> Uninstall updates, and click the Uninstall button next to the update you want to eliminate. In this example, we are uninstalling an update for the month of May 2024.

How to Roll Back Windows Builds

After every major update, Windows gives you a 10-day window to roll back to a previous version. It’s a useful feature and should give you enough time to judge whether you have a problematic update on your hands. Of course, this won’t recover your files if Windows deletes them, but at least you’ll be on a more stable version of the OS.

Go to Settings -> Update & security -> Recovery in Windows 10 or Settings -> System -> Recovery in Windows 11.

Below Reset this PC, is the option to Go back to the previous version of Windows.

Click Get started, then follow the steps to roll back Windows. Again, this option is only available for 10 days after a Windows build update.

Check Your Windows Build

Before looking into rolling back and fixing broken Windows updates, check the build of Windows you’re currently using to confirm which issues are affecting you.

Go to Settings -> Windows Update -> Update history (in Windows 11) or Settings -> Update & Security -> Windows Update -> View Update history (in Windows 10).

In the new window, click the arrow next to Feature Updates to see the version of Windows you’re currently using, and click Quality Updates to see all of the smaller KB updates you have installed.

You will also find Definition Updates, which are security intelligence updates related to Microsoft Defender.

At the bottom of the list, you may find Other Updates, concerning programs such as the Windows Malicious Software Removal tool, Intelligence updates, and security patches.

Pause Windows Updates

To avoid getting the above update problems and more, take over control when Windows updates. This way, you can hold off getting updates the moment Microsoft rolls them out, monitor the news for a bit to see if any significant errors crop up, then manually do the update yourself.

If you’re running Windows 11, go to Settings -> Windows Update -> More options -> Pause updates, and choose the number of weeks you wish to defer updates in the future (from the default of one week to up to five weeks).

In Windows 10 Home, Pro, Enterprise, Education, or S, postpone updates by checking the same option under Settings -> Update & Security -> Windows Update. On some Windows 10 versions, it may be referred to as Defer instead of Pause and under a different heading.

Tip: did you know that Windows comes with a Super Administrator account? Learn how to activate it.

Completely Block Windows Updates

If you want to completely block Windows updates indefinitely, disable the main Windows Update service through the Registry Editor.

Click Start, type regedit, open the Registry Editor, and navigate to the following path:

Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\WaaSMedicSvc

Right-click on Start to modify it, then change its Value data to 4.

Reboot your PC, then go to the Services window by using the Search function in Windows. Disable the Windows Update service in the same window by setting its startup type as Disabled.

Few things on PC are more frustrating than an update – ostensibly to improve performance – borking your system. Unfortunately, Microsoft still has work to do in this respect. Other issues with Windows include the Microsoft Store not working and a malfunctioning microphone. We can help with these, too!

Image credit: Pixabay. All screenshots by Sayak Boral.

Sayak Boral - Staff Writer

Sayak Boral is a technology writer with over eleven years of experience working in different industries including semiconductors, IoT, enterprise IT, telecommunications OSS/BSS, and network security. He has been writing for MakeTechEasier on a wide range of technical topics including Windows, Android, Internet, Hardware Guides, Browsers, Software Tools, and Product Reviews.