Microsoft warns of new Windows 11 installation media bug that blocks future security updates
Manually created Windows 11 installation media may contain a bug.
Microsoft has issued a warning regarding potential issues when installing Windows 11 version 24H2 using physical media such as CDs or USB flash drives. The problem arises when the installation media includes security updates released between October 8 and November 12, 2024. In such cases, the operating system may not accept further security updates post-installation.
This issue does not affect systems that receive updates directly through Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog. Additionally, installations using the latest December 2024 security update are not impacted. To avoid this problem, Microsoft recommends creating new installation media that incorporates the December 2024 security update, released on December 10. This ensures that the system can receive future security updates without hindrance.
Users who have already installed Windows 11, version 24H2, using media containing the October or November updates should take immediate action to update their systems. Applying the December 2024 security update via Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog will resolve the issue and restore the system's ability to accept future security updates.
This advisory highlights the importance of using up-to-date installation media when deploying operating systems, especially in environments that rely on physical media for installations. Ensuring that installation tools include the latest security updates is crucial to maintaining system integrity and receiving ongoing support.
Microsoft also said that it is actively working on a permanent solution to prevent such issues in the future. In the meantime, users are advised to follow the recommended steps to ensure their systems remain secure and capable of receiving necessary updates.
Ever since the release of Windows 11 version 24H2, several issues have plagued the OS during the course of 2024. There was an issue where the Disk Cleanup tool was incorrectly showing 8.63GB of removable update cache under "Windows Update Cleanup." There was also a speaker volume spike issue where users reported sudden volume increases to maximum levels, particularly when using external DACs like the Creative Sound BlasterX G6.
Keeping Windows 11 updated is essential for maintaining system security, stability, and performance. Microsoft regularly releases updates to address vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cyber threats, ensuring robust protection against malware and hacking attempts. Updates also include bug fixes to resolve known issues, enhancing the system's reliability and preventing potential disruptions during use.
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Kunal Khullar is a contributing writer at Tom’s Hardware. He is a long time technology journalist and reviewer specializing in PC components and peripherals, and welcomes any and every question around building a PC.
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hotaru251 honestly not receiving updates is starting to look more and more enticing...one way to keep their bloatware (recall and the linke) from getting on your machine.Reply -
rluker5 So if I installed 24h2 before dec 10 then I have to try to install security updates and if they don't then I have to reinstall Windows to have security updates?Reply
What a hassle. I recently installed that on 3 PCs.
At least Tom's has an article on it so I know. -
toffty
Rereading the article, it looks like you just have to manually update to a newer security version through windows update. I think I fall into this window and I'll see if it worksrluker5 said:So if I installed 24h2 before dec 10 then I have to try to install security updates and if they don't then I have to reinstall Windows to have security updates?
What a hassle. I recently installed that on 3 PCs.
At least Tom's has an article on it so I know. -
toffty I installed Windows 11 from a newly created USB at the end of November. Just ran update manually and it found a security update and installed successfully.Reply
- Security Intelligence Update for Microsoft Defender Antivirus - KB2267602 (Version 1.421.1046.0
Doesn't give a date though.
Looking at the history, I did automatically receive
- 2024-12 Cumulative Update for Windows 11 Version 24H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5048667)
So if there is a fix in 2024-1 Cumulative Update, I'll be covered. -
Alvar "Miles" Udell According to Scribbr, 89% of this article was written by AI, might want to include that in the byline. The only part not detected as being written by AI is:Reply
Microsoft has issued a warning regarding potential issues when installing Windows 11 version 24H2 using physical media such as CDs or USB flash drives. The problem arises when the installation media includes security updates released between October 8 and November 12, 2024.
The Microsoft article says there is no current resolution, and does not state that manually attempting to install an update to a system that is impacted this bug will fix it. What it does say is they will tell you what to do when they figure it out.
Workaround: To prevent issues, do not install Windows 11, version 24H2 which installs the October 2024 or November 2024 security updates. Instead, ensure that media used to install Windows 11, version 24H2, includes the December 2024 monthly security update (released December 10, 2024), or later.
Next steps: We are working on a resolution and will provide more information when it is available. -
MobileJAD Microsoft needs to get their act together, so much bad publicity lately with their poor policy choices regarding what PCs can upgrade to 11 and etc, and all of these bugs and security issues lately,,,Reply -
usertests This advisory highlights the importance of using up-to-date installation media when deploying operating systems incompetence
I ran Mr. Khullar's bio in that tool. 56% AI, with everything before "Currently" detected as AI, and the rest human written. The writing style... appears different.Alvar Miles Udell said:According to Scribbr, 89% of this article was written by AI, might want to include that in the byline.
These detectors are definitely not perfect, but you've got to wonder.