Microsoft says not to use Windows 11 USB and CD installers made with October or November updates.
Microsoft has issued an important warning about a peculiar Windows 11 bug that could stop certain users from installing future security updates. This issue stems from manually created installation media for Windows 11, version 24H2, that includes October or November 2024 updates. While this might sound like a niche problem, it could have significant implications for IT professionals, businesses, educational institutions, and even tech enthusiasts who recently built their own PCs.
Let’s dive deeper into the issue, who it affects, and what steps you can take to resolve or avoid it altogether.
The Root of the Problem
Microsoft detailed the issue in its known problems page for Windows 11 (version 24H2). The bug occurs when:
- You use manually created installation media (such as a USB drive or a CD) to install Windows 11.
- The installation media includes the October 2024 or November 2024 security updates.
When these conditions are met, the resulting system installation could remain in a state where it cannot receive additional Windows security updates—leaving your PC vulnerable to potential threats. This is particularly concerning for organizations that depend on secure systems for daily operations.
Who Is Affected?
The issue doesn’t affect everyone. If you received the October or November 2024 security updates through Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog, your system should be fine. However, if you:
- Created installation media with the October or November patches included and used it to install Windows 11 24H2, you’re at risk.
- Work in IT or manage multiple PC deployments for an organization, this bug could disrupt large-scale installations.
- Recently built a custom PC and used older installation media, you may need to double-check your system’s update status.
Microsoft’s Mitigation Plan
To address the problem, Microsoft recommends rebuilding your Windows 11 installation media to include the December 2024 patch (released on December 10, 2024). Using this updated media to reinstall Windows 11 should resolve the issue.
To avoid the problem altogether, Microsoft advises that all installation media used for Windows 11, version 24H2, include the December 2024 security update. As of now, the company is actively working on a permanent fix to ensure this doesn’t recur in future updates.
How to Check If You’re Affected
If you’re concerned about whether your system might be impacted, here are a few steps to verify:
- Check Your Installation Source: Did you install Windows 11 using manually created media with October or November updates?
- Verify Update Status: Navigate to the Windows Update settings and check if your system is receiving updates as expected.
- Run a Security Scan: Use Microsoft Defender or a trusted antivirus program to ensure your system is secure in the meantime.
Broader Issues with Windows 11 24H2
This isn’t the only bug plaguing Windows 11, version 24H2. According to reports by Bleeping Computer, other issues have surfaced, including:
- Problems with specific audio devices not functioning properly.
- Issues launching Microsoft Outlook when using outdated Google Workspace Sync configurations.
- Compatibility problems with certain Ubisoft games, which are slowly receiving fixes.
While Microsoft is addressing these issues one by one, the cumulative impact highlights the need for vigilance when updating or installing new software.
What This Means for You
Whether you’re an IT professional managing enterprise systems or an individual user, this bug underscores the importance of staying updated on known issues. For organizations, the disruption caused by these bugs can lead to significant downtime and increased security risks.
Here’s how you can stay proactive:
- Always Use the Latest Installation Media: Ensure your installation media includes the most recent patches.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check Microsoft’s known issues page for updates on bugs and fixes.
- Backup Your System: Before reinstalling Windows, back up important data to prevent loss.
Final Thoughts
While the Windows 11 24H2 bug is inconvenient, Microsoft’s prompt acknowledgment and guidance should help most users mitigate the issue. By rebuilding your installation media and staying on top of updates, you can ensure your systems remain secure and functional.
As Windows 11 continues to evolve, users and administrators alike must remain vigilant about potential bugs and take steps to address them quickly. After all, staying secure in today’s digital world is not just about installing updates—it’s about being prepared for the unexpected.
