Fix BSOD in Windows 11 24H2: WD Firmware Update for SSDs

In a move that brings relief to users grappling with blue screens of death (BSOD) related to Windows 11 version 24H2, Western Digital (WD) has released a critical firmware update targeting some of its solid-state drives (SSDs). This update is particularly important as it addresses compatibility issues that have plagued certain WD and SanDisk SSDs since the launch of the latest operating system update earlier this month.

The Blue Screen Dilemma​

Upon the introduction of Windows 11 24H2, many users encountered frequent crashes, leading to the dreaded BSOD that can turn an exciting tech upgrade into a frustrating trial. Western Digital identified that these issues were primarily linked to problems with the Host Memory Buffer (HMB) technology on specific models of SSDs. Affected drives included popular models such as the WD_BLACK SN770 and WD Blue SN580, among others.

Troublesome Drives Identified​

According to WD's official communications, the following SSDs were determined to be problematic:

• WD_BLACK SN770 NVMe SSD (2TB)
• WD_BLACK SN770M NVMe SSD (2TB)
• WD Blue SN580 NVMe SSD (2TB)
• WD Blue SN5000 NVMe SSD (2TB)
• SanDisk Extreme M.2 NVMe SSD (2TB)

These models exhibited compatibility issues after the update, causing systems to crash, which dampened user experience significantly.

The Recommended Fix​

In response to the turmoil caused by these crashes, Western Digital has strongly advised users of affected SSDs to update their firmware before attempting to install or utilize Windows 11 version 24H2. The company graciously provided a pathway for users to do so seamlessly, as Microsoft will likely block those with these SSDs from accessing the update without the firmware fix.

How to Update Your Firmware​

To ensure you have the most stable experience possible with Windows 11 24H2, users should follow these steps:

1. Download the Western Digital Dashboard: This application is essential for monitoring drive health, temperature, and speeds while also allowing for firmware updates. It is exclusively available for Windows.
2. Install the Application: Open the application post-download. Once launched, it will prompt you if there are any pending firmware updates for your SSD.
3. Execute the Update: Follow the prompts within the Western Digital Dashboard to complete the firmware update process.
4. Proceed with the Update to Windows 11 24H2: If you haven't yet installed the latest version of Windows, you can use the guide linked in the Dashboard to do so now that your SSD firmware is up to date.

Adjusting Expectations​

While this firmware update is a significant step towards smoothing out user experiences with Windows 11 24H2, it's vital for users to remain aware that issues may not be solely confined to SSD compatibility. Other bugs and compatibility issues could persist after the update, so it’s wise to stay informed and prepared for adjustments as needed.

Final Thoughts​

Western Digital's timely response to this crisis not only underscores the company's commitment to its customer base but also emphasizes the importance of firmware updates in the rapidly evolving ecosystem of operating systems and hardware. If you're among those experiencing BSOD due to the Windows 11 24H2 update, this is your cue to check for firmware updates immediately.
Stay proactive and remember: even in technology, proper maintenance is key to enjoying a smooth experience.
For a complete guide on everything you need to know about these updates, feel free to dive into the details available in the link. As always, share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below – your insights could help other users facing similar challenges!
Source: Neowin WD releases new firmware to fix Windows 11 24H2 blue screens of death on some SSD