Fix for Windows KB5043145 Update: Solutions for Reboot Loops and Device Issues

In the ever-changing landscape of Windows updates, Microsoft recently addressed a significant problem that has affected users with the KB5043145 preview update. If you’ve experienced annoying reboot loops, system freezes, or disconnections with USB and Bluetooth devices, you're not alone. Microsoft confirmed on October 1, 2024, that this troublesome update indeed caused such widespread issues and has now rolled out a fix to alleviate the pain.

The Problem​

Affected systems loaded the Automatic Repair tool, which is designed to fix Windows installations that are unable to boot correctly. In more severe cases, users found their devices entering BitLocker recovery after multiple unsuccessful attempts to boot. Additionally, the same flawed update left hardware connected via USB and Bluetooth inoperable. This included keyboards, memory sticks, printers, and wireless mice, all of which displayed a frustrating yellow exclamation mark under the Device Manager.
As Microsoft noted in their update on the Windows release health page, “This issue also causes USB and Bluetooth connections to fail in some devices.” Talk about a double whammy!

Resolution: Known Issue Rollback​

To address these concerns, Microsoft has utilized a feature called Known Issue Rollback (KIR). This nifty Windows feature can effectively revert flawed non-security updates that were released via Windows Update. Since the KIR fix is already rolling out, affected users are in for a smoother ride ahead.
For those of you managing Windows enterprise devices, here’s where the real magic happens. Admins must deploy the Windows 11 22H2 KB5043145 240904_041021 Known Issue Rollback Group Policy to resolve these problems. This can be done through the Group Policy Editor, specifically navigating to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates.

How to Deploy KIR Group Policies:​

1. Open Group Policy Editor: Access the Local Computer Policy or Domain Policy on your domain controller.
2. Select the Correct Policy: Choose the Windows version you need to target, ensuring compliance with your update strategy.
3. Restart the Affected System(s): After making your changes, restart your systems to apply the new policy settings.

More detailed instructions and guidance on deploying and configuring KIR Group Policies can be found on Microsoft's support website.

Historical Context and Broader Implications​

Microsoft’s timely response to these issues sheds light on the ongoing quest for a more stable Windows experience. This is not the first time such problems have arisen. Similar issues have been historically reported, such as the significant boot problems from the August and July updates. Learning from these patterns emphasizes the need for proactive user engagement and system health checks post-update installation.
It’s a prance through a minefield for many Windows users. On one hand, we have regular updates that promise enhancements and security fixes. On the other, we frequently encounter frustrating bugs that can hinder productivity and usability. As such, users are encouraged to stay informed and equipped with detailed knowledge for smoother troubleshooting.

Final Thoughts​

As Windows users, the experience of dealing with troublesome updates often feels like a roller coaster—exhilarating one minute and perplexing the next. Thanks to Microsoft's quick patching of the KB5043145 update, affected users should soon enjoy the benefits of restored functionality across their devices.
Have you encountered any issues with the KB5043145 update? Share your experiences and solutions in the comments below! You might just save a fellow Windows user from the headaches you've faced!
Source: BleepingComputer Microsoft fixes Windows KB5043145 reboot loops, USB and Bluetooth issues