Fix Windows 11 24H2 Deployment Crashes: Solve Error 0x80240069 with Registry Workaround

Microsoft has officially acknowledged a critical issue affecting the deployment of Windows 11 version 24H2 through Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) and System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM). Administrators attempting to upgrade systems using these platforms have encountered crashes in the Windows Update service host process (svchost.exe_wuauserv), accompanied by the error code 0x80240069.
Understanding the Issue
The problem manifests when deploying Windows 11 24H2 via WSUS or SCCM. During the upgrade process, the Windows Update service crashes, leading to an access violation fault. Event Viewer logs typically display an error titled "Unexpected HRESULT while download in progress: 0x80240069 WUAHandler," pinpointing svchost.exe_wuauserv as the faulty process, with ntdll.dll identified as the failing module.
This issue is not limited to the 24H2 upgrade; reports suggest that it also affects other monthly Windows Updates and even the transition from Windows 11 22H2 to 23H2. Administrators have observed that attempts to install Windows 11 23H2 enablement packages on 22H2 systems result in similar crashes, indicating a broader impact.
Microsoft's Response
In an update to its support documentation, Microsoft confirmed the issue, stating that devices with the April 2025 Update may not be offered Windows 11 24H2 via WSUS. The company acknowledged that the download of Windows 11 24H2 might not initiate or complete, with logs showing error code 0x80240069 and messages indicating that the wuauserv service has unexpectedly stopped.
Root Cause Analysis
The root cause appears to be a bug introduced in specific Windows 11 23H2 updates, namely KB5055629, KB5058919, and KB5055528. These updates have been identified as disrupting WSUS functionality, leading to the aforementioned crashes during the upgrade process.
Proposed Workaround
To mitigate this issue, a Microsoft support representative provided a registry script designed to override the problematic feature introduced by the recent cumulative updates. The script involves creating a registry key with specific DWORD values to bypass the flawed variant logic.
Registry Script:

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\FeatureManagement\Overrides\8\3000950414]
"EnabledState"=dword:00000001
"EnabledStateOptions"=dword:00000000
"Variant"=dword:00000000
"VariantPayload"=dword:00000000

By setting these values, Windows is directed to skip the defective code path, allowing the upgrade process to proceed without triggering the crash.
Recommendations for Administrators

• Implement the Workaround: Apply the provided registry script to affected systems to prevent the 0x80240069 error during the upgrade process.
• Monitor Official Channels: Stay updated with Microsoft's official communications for any patches or updates addressing this issue.
• Test Before Deployment: Before rolling out the upgrade across the organization, conduct thorough testing in a controlled environment to ensure the workaround's effectiveness and to identify any potential side effects.
• Prepare for Official Fixes: Microsoft has indicated that an official fix is expected in May 2025. Plan for its deployment once available to ensure systems are updated with the most stable and secure configurations.

Conclusion
The 0x80240069 error presents a significant challenge for organizations relying on WSUS and SCCM for deploying Windows updates. While the provided registry workaround offers a temporary solution, it is crucial for administrators to remain vigilant, apply interim fixes cautiously, and prepare for the forthcoming official update from Microsoft to ensure seamless and secure system upgrades.

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Source: Windows Latest Microsoft confirms Windows 11 24H2 0x80240069 svchost.exe_wuauserv crashes