Some Windows 11 Users Can No Longer Install Security Updates (but There Is a Solution)
If you’ve recently built a computer, congratulations! You should be proud. There’s nothing better than turning on your new computer, seeing that it’s working fine, and breathing a sigh of relief knowing you’re all set and won’t have to spend hours troubleshooting why it’s not working. Well, sorry to burst your bubble, but if you installed Windows on your computer in October or November, you may not be done yet.
According to an update on Microsoft’s known issues page , copies of Windows installed via USB or CD with the October 2024 and November 2024 updates are affected by a bug that prevents them from accepting any future security updates. These updates are vital to protecting your computer from viruses and exploits, but luckily there is a solution. It’s just a bit of hassle.
Essentially, you’ll need to reinstall Windows using the new installation media that’s included with the December 2024 Update. Simply go to the Microsoft Windows 11 download page , scroll down to “Create Windows 11 installation media” , open mediacreationtool.exe and follow the instructions in the application. It’s simple, although labor intensive.
Luckily, the company says it’s working on a solution to the problem, so we’re hopeful that a better solution that doesn’t require reinstalling the operating system is on the way. However, when it comes to issues with security updates, it’s best to implement patches as soon as possible.
The upside is that if you downloaded the Windows 11 October or November updates through Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog website , you don’t need to take any further action. This issue only affects people who installed the October or November updates using physical media (which is common among IT professionals and some PC builders).
This issue joins a known list of problems with the Windows 11 24H2 update, including problems with specific audio devices, Outlook, and even some Ubisoft video games .