Latest news with #WindowsLatest
Forbes
4 days ago
- Forbes
Microsoft Confirms Windows Upgrade Choice—100 Day Deadline Nears
Users must act now as deadline nears. The awkwardness of Microsoft's multiple emergency updates to resolve failed installs continues, with yet another warning of a Windows 11 flaw. But the bigger issue remains the stubborn Windows 10 user base. With little more than 100 days to upgrade or lose support, Microsoft confirms another upgrade choice for those 700 million users. That new update warning, per Windows Latest, is that 'Windows 11 KB5063060 is failing to install due to errors like 0x800f0922, 0x80070002, 0x80070306, and 0x800f0991.' Those issue are hitting PC gamers hardest. You do have the option to uninstall the update, or just await the inevitable fix. Desktop Windows Version Market Share Worldwide (June 2024 to June 2025) After several months of steady upgrades from Windows 10 to Windows 11, last month's data was a setback with those upgrades flatlining, leaving 50% of the user base at risk. The good news for Microsoft and the cybersecurity industry is that June has been much better — thus far. It now looks as though upgrades are accelerating, which is critical. And now, Microsoft is making the transition much easier. Last month, the Windows-maker confirmed 'we're beginning the rollout of a new PC-to-PC migration experience in Windows,' which means 'you will be able to transfer your files and settings from your old PC to the new one during the PC setup process.' Microsoft said this data migration process would rollout 'in phases for a smooth experience,' and now it's turning up on user devices. For the 250-million-plus PC owners who need to upgrade their hardware as a Windows 11 upgrade is not possible given its hardware hurdles, this is a game-changer. 'What if you can't upgrade to Windows 11 because you own an unsupported PC?' Windows Latest says. 'You can use a new Windows Migration feature, which comes with a free 'PC to PC' transfer feature.' This sits within the existing Windows Backup tool, and 'while it's not exactly a new app… it is getting [this] Migration tool.' PC to PC migration tool This forthcoming update was spotted by @phantomofearth on X: 'Unsurprisingly, Windows Migration is coming to Windows 10 to make it easier to move to 11 as we get closer to EoL. The migration flow in the Backup app is hidden in today's RP CU (19045.6029), can be enabled with feature ID 56242779.' Windows Latest says that while 'this is visible in Windows 10 Build 19045.6029, but is hidden,' they 'forced it on, [albeit] it warns that the feature is in internal testing, so it's not supposed to work for regular consumers just yet.' When it is, it will be a good option for hundreds of millions of users with little more than 100 days to upgrade.
Forbes
06-06-2025
- Forbes
Microsoft Issues Critical Windows Update—Do Not Delete This
You have been warned — do not hit delete. NurPhoto via Getty Images You won't like this. If you're at risk from this Windows security vulnerability, the fix is a nightmare unless you're a fairly expert user. That's not ideal, and it's all down to an update quietly installed on your PC without explanation in April. You may recall the awkward saga of the 'inetpub' folder and 'Microsoft's confusing messaging on deleting or not deleting this mysterious folder on your PC that could leave you and your PC at risk.' Plenty of users deleted the folder that suddenly turned up. 'After installing this update or a later Windows update,' Microsoft later explained, the new folder will appear on your device. 'This folder should not be deleted.' This empty folder, Windows Latest explains, 'is typically associated with Internet Information Services (IIS), which is a native Windows service that allows developers to host websites or apps on Windows 11.' The empty folder appeared without explanation. 'Some of us assumed that it's a bug with the cumulative update and deleted the folder.' Now we have news of an actual fix. 'If you deleted the 'inetpub' folder, created after Windows April 2025 updates,' Windows Latest warns, 'you need to immediately bring it back.' You can turn on the IIS service or 'use a new PowerShell script.' Only after all those deletions did the explanation come. The 'inetpub' folder 'is created as part of a security patch for CVE-2025-21204,' Windows Latest says, 'and it doesn't matter whether IIS is turned on or not. It'll show up, and you're not supposed to delete it, and if you deleted it, please bring it back, according to Microsoft.' You can turn on IIS, 'however, that's something most people don't want to do because IIS also creates additional folders, which are not required unless you're a developer. Instead you can run Microsoft's newly released PowerShell script. First ensure you're logged in as an Administrator, then you can follow Windows Latest's instructions: Mostly users are unlikely to go through this, which will leave them at risk. 'As per Microsoft, without the folder and its correct ACLs (Access Control Lists), you remain exposed to potential privilege escalation or unauthorized access.'
Forbes
24-05-2025
- Forbes
Microsoft Tells Nearly All Windows Users—You Must Reboot Your PC
Are you on the list? NurPhoto via Getty Images We knew this was coming — but it's a disappointment anyway. For almost all Windows users, the latest update from Microsoft will be something of a bad news story, as some users suddenly get a faster, slicker way of using their PCs, while they miss out. Per Windows Latest, this month's KB5058497 for Windows 11 24H2 'is the first 'hotpatch' update, which means it doesn't require a reboot to finish installing. But unfortunately, it is only for Windows 11 24H2 Enterprise. There's no word on when the feature will roll out to Pro and Home consumers, but it might happen at some point.' Microsoft warned users this would be the case. 'With hotpatch updates, you can quickly take measures to help protect your organization from cyberattacks, while minimizing user disruptions. Hotpatching represents a significant advancement in our journey to help you, and everyone who uses Windows, stay secure and productive.' The 'numerous enhancements' Microsoft touted, include immediate protection, consistent security and minimized disruptions: 'Users can continue their work without interruptions while hotpatch updates are installed. Hotpatch updates don't require the PC to restart for the remainder of the quarter.' But this probably isn't for you. Microsoft also confirmed you will need: 'Right now,' says Windows Latest, 'when there's a new security update for Windows 11 24H2 or an older version, you need to reboot to apply it. That's the case for pretty much every update unless it's a security patch for Windows Defender. With hotpatching, you don't have to reboot the PC to install updates, but there are certain exceptions.' The hotpatch update cycle Microsoft The primary exception is that every third update does require a reboot, that enables a fuller update that can get to the parts of your PC a hot patch might not reach. KB5058497 'falls between May and June 2025, which is the 'no restart' period,' in other words the hot patch two-months between reboot updates. 'In our tests with Windows 11 24H2 Enterprise edition,' Windows Latest says, 'KB5058497 installed on its own, and it did not ask for a reboot. I didn't even realise the update was installed until I went to Windows Update history. That's the magic of a reboot-free hotpatch.' For Windows 11 Home and Pro users watching on, the monthly, mandatory reboot continues. There is no information on what you might get the hot patch update. The update is still critical, it just comes with pain and downtime others now avoid. May is proving interesting for Microsoft, with an emergency update to fix a nightmarish Bitlocker Recovery issue and even reports of blue screens of death. Clearly, whether hotpatching or not, be sure to update your PC and reboot if needed. This was another fun-packed security update and the Windows landscape is not getting any safer.
Forbes
23-05-2025
- Forbes
Microsoft's Emergency Windows Update—Stop Blue Screen Of Death
How to stop the dreaded BSOD Microsoft has issued an emergency update after users were hit by May's mandatory security update breaking Windows. 'Windows 10 might repeatedly display the BitLocker recovery screen at startup,' Microsoft confirmed, pointing any affected users the newly issued out of bounds update via its Update Catalog. Windows Latest was first to note the escalating issue, noting that 'the KB5058379 install starts, but ends up at 'Enter the recovery key to get going again (Keyboard layout: US)' screen, and there's a text field to add the recovery key.' There were some reports of the dreaded blue screen of death (BSOD) as well, albeit this was primarily a Bitlocker issue and only for Windows 10 users yet to upgrade. But those BSOD reports were timely, given Microsoft's update just a week earlier. Neowin was first to note that 'Microsoft has shared steps on how users will be able to troubleshoot and hopefully fix' BSODs when they hit. The company updated a support document, which before has simply advised users turn to 'Safe Mode troubleshooting and the Get Help app,' but which now offered much more of a guide. 'Blue Screen errors,' the company explains, '(also called bug checks, STOP code errors, kernel errors, or BSOD errors) can occur if a serious problem causes Windows to shut down or restart unexpectedly to protect itself from data loss.' What you'll see is a message warning '"Windows has been shut down to prevent damage to your computer.' It's the dreaded moment, Neowin says, 'most Windows users must have experienced once in their lives.' Microsoft breaks its guidance into two parts. First is 'basic troubleshooting' that should work for everyone, and comprises six fairly easy to follow steps: For more expert users, Microsoft also lists three 'advanced troubleshooting' tips: Meanwhile, if you've been hit with the latest issues, Windows Latest says 'once you've installed the update, you'll no longer run into BitLocker or Blue Screen of Death errors.' But for those 'stuck on the blue screen with automatic recovery failing,' the website has provided its own guidance to 'manually turn off Intel TXT from BIOS,' after which you can install Microsoft's emergency out-of-band update. 'To turn off Intel TXT and the BitLocker recovery screen loop, follow these steps:
Forbes
20-05-2025
- Forbes
Microsoft Confirms Windows Update Locking PCs Or Blue Screen Of Death — How To Fix
Updated May 20 with details of how Microsoft has now fixed the bug and what you should do. Windows 10 users have recently come across a problem caused by the latest Windows 10 KB5058379 update. The problem is, it's a mandatory update. Now, Microsoft has issued a critical update to put things right. Full details of what you should do at the end of this post. Windows 10 NurPhoto via Getty Images First, some history. The issue was reported on May 15 by Windows Latest. 'Windows 10 KB5058379 is causing PCs to boot into Windows Recovery and require BitLocker key. Windows Latest received reports that KB5058379 install starts, but ends up at 'Enter the recovery key to get going again (Keyboard layout: US)' screen, and there's a text field to add the recovery key. In some cases, there's a BSOD as well," Windows Latest said. It's unusual for BitLocker recovery to trigger automatically unless we make a change to the hardware or BIOS settings. Several users told Windows Latest that a BitLocker Recovery (Windows Boot Recovery) is prompted automatically after installing KB5058379, which is rolling out via Windows Update. In some cases, there's a BSOD as well… Windows 10 KB5058379 is a mandatory security update rolling out for everyone, including businesses or enterprises, and you don't have a choice but to install the update,' it went on. If you aren't familiar with BitLocker, then, as you'll see below, there's a chance that the problem won't apply to you. Anyway, here's how Bleeping Computer described the issue and how it manfests. 'The BitLocker Windows security feature encrypts storage drives to prevent data theft, and Windows computers typically enter BitLocker recovery mode after events like TPM (Trusted Platform Module) updates or hardware changes to regain access to protected drives. Today, Microsoft confirmed the issue and said it's investigating reports that 'a small number' of Windows 10 PCs display BitLocker recovery screens after installing the KB5058379 update,' it said. On Saturday, May 17, Microsoft updated a support document to acknowledge the issue. 'We are aware of a known issue on devices with Intel Trusted Execution Technology (TXT) enabled on 10th generation or later Intel vPro processors,' it said. It also shared some good news. 'Consumer devices typically do not use Intel vPro processors and are less likely to be impacted by this issue. This issue ONLY applies to the affected platforms listed below. Windows 10, versions 22H2; Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, Server: None,' Microsoft said in its support document. Again, this is why you'll probably know about BitLocker if there's a chance you could be affected. So, if you have a PC with Intel vPro chip, you could be tempted not to install it yet, though since it's mandatory, it's not advisable to skip it. Take heart, though: Microsoft is working on it. 'We are urgently working on a resolution for this issue, with plans to release an Out-of-band update to the Microsoft Update Catalog in the coming days,' it says, and the fact that the latest support document was filed on a Saturday indicates the urgency. The first stage, obviously, is to find your 48-digit Bitlocker recovery key. Here are Windows Latest's helpful instructions for what you need to do. You need to reboot into BIOS/UEFI, which can be done by pressing a key after power-on, but the keys are different across all OEMs. On most Dell/HP/Lenovo: press F2, F10/F12, or Esc immediately after power-on to enter BIOS/UEFI. Next, in BIOS, look for Security, open Virtualization or Advanced CPU Settings and turn off Intel TXT. This could also be referred to as Trusted Execution, or OS Kernel DMA Support. Note that you can leave VT for Direct I/O (or VT-d) enabled. Finally, save changes and exit BIOS. 'The idea is to disable Intel TXT / Trusted Execution and allow KB5058379 to finish installation. If you followed the steps correctly, you won't run into BitLocker Recovery or BSOD. Remember that the BSOD or BitLocker is triggered when installing KB5058379, but you won't have the issue after the update is installed successfully. The catch is that it's a challenge to install the security patch without turning off Intel TXT / Trusted Execution in BIOS,' Windows Latest explains. Windows 11 is not affected by this issue, it seems. So, how about that update to fix things? Microsoft said it was working urgently and would release an update in days. It did, just 48 hours after it acknowledged the flaw. On Monday, May 19, Microsoft said it had resolved the problem. 'We are aware of a known issue on devices with Intel Trusted Execution Technology (TXT) enabled on 10th generation or later Intel vPro processors. On these systems, installing the May 13, 2025, Windows security update (KB5058379) might cause to terminate unexpectedly, triggering an Automatic Repair. On devices with BitLocker enabled, BitLocker requires the input of your BitLocker recovery key to initiate the Automatic Repair,' it said. Then it described the resolution, with an update that is only available to download through the Microsoft Update Catalog, so that's the place you need to visit to sort this. 'This issue was resolved in the out-of-band (OOB) update KB5061768, which is only available via the Microsoft Update Catalog. If your organization uses the affected platforms and hasn't yet deployed the May 13, 2025, Windows security update, or if KB5058379 failed to install, we recommend you apply this OOB update instead,' it said. If you have already installed the updated and are unable to start your PC, you need to disable Intel VT for Direct I/O (also known as VTD or VTX) and Intel Trusted Execution Technology (TXT) in your BIOS / UEFI settings. This disabling should only be temporary. You'll need to enter your BitLocker recovery key. If you don't have that, see the instructions to retrieve the key. Once you've done that, go to the Microsoft Update Catalog and install the new update, KB5061768. Then restart Windows and return to your BIOS / UEFI settings. This is when you re-enable Intel VT for Direct I/O (also known as VTD or VTX) and TXT. (Note that you'll again need your BitLocker recovery key for this step.
