In a surprise turn of events, Microsoft has imposed a block on the rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2 for devices relying on USB-connected peripherals like printers, scanners, and network modems. This comes after a series of issues were reported by users, particularly related to the eSCL (eScanner Communication Language) scan protocol. If you're among those who rely on USB multifunction devices or standalone scanners at your workplace or home, this news might be a wake-up call about how an update designed to propel us forward can still knock us a few steps back.
Let’s peel back the layers and understand what’s going on—and what you, as a Windows user, need to do about it.
But, and there’s always a “but,” Microsoft has admitted that with this update, devices sometimes fail to switch out of eSCL mode into traditional USB modes. What does that mean for you? In layman's terms, your USB-connected scanners or multifunction printers might not be “discoverable,” leaving them non-functional. So, rather than bridging worlds, the protocol hit a dead end.
With Windows 11, users felt like they were getting a polished experience compared to Windows 10's sometimes-messy updates. But the 24H2 release, launched with promises of Arm-PC enhancements and a streamlined environment for modern peripherals, now has some glaring cracks in its façade.
For now, it’s a tricky balancing act for Microsoft, whose ambitions to unify the Windows ecosystem often come at the cost of user trust.
So, hang tight. While this temporary block might feel like a speed bump for the tech-savvy out there ready to dive into 24H2, it serves a necessary pause to ensure everybody, from the casual home user to enterprise IT managers, has a smoother ride down the update highway.
Your move, Microsoft. Until then, we’ll be here with our coffee mugs and glitchy scanners, waiting.
Source: Neowin Microsoft blocks Windows 11 24H2 update as it breaks USB network modems, printers, scanners
Let’s peel back the layers and understand what’s going on—and what you, as a Windows user, need to do about it.
The Core of the Problem: eSCL Protocol Gone Awry
The main culprit here is the eSCL protocol, a relatively modern solution for driverless scanners. Developed by Mopria (a nonprofit alliance focused on promoting universal standards for printing and scanning), eSCL was supposed to make connecting your scanner over networks or USB a breeze, without fussing over proprietary drivers. This technology essentially lets scanners communicate directly with your machine via standard network and USB protocols.But, and there’s always a “but,” Microsoft has admitted that with this update, devices sometimes fail to switch out of eSCL mode into traditional USB modes. What does that mean for you? In layman's terms, your USB-connected scanners or multifunction printers might not be “discoverable,” leaving them non-functional. So, rather than bridging worlds, the protocol hit a dead end.
A Quick Recap: What Does eSCL Do?
Before diving deeper, it’s crucial to understand the brilliance behind eSCL. Imagine scanning a document without needing to track down drivers off some obscure website or find your printer’s installation CD from a box in your garage. eSCL enables:- Driverless Scanning: No downloads, no hassle. It works out of the box on Windows, macOS, and mobile environments.
- Universal Interoperability: Standardizes scanning interactions regardless of the scanner or network.
- Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and USB Support: Flexibility to use wired and wireless setups seamlessly.
Microsoft’s Response: Compatibility Hold Deployed
Realizing the magnitude of this problem, Microsoft has initiated something called a "compatibility hold". This pause essentially blocks affected systems with connected USB devices using the eSCL protocol from receiving the Windows 11 24H2 update. Here’s the official word from Microsoft:This isn’t just a recommendation. The update is being withheld for impacted systems to prevent users from downloading an update that could disrupt daily workflows. For those of us who recall similar blocks in the past for other buggy updates, this seems like a wise move."To safeguard your update experience, we have applied a compatibility hold on devices connected to a USB device that supports the eSCL scan protocol."
What Devices Are Affected?
This eSCL bug isn’t just ruining the party for niche devices. We’re talking about the workhorses of many offices and home setups:- USB-connected multifunction printers (the kind that can scan, copy, and fax)
- Standalone scanners supporting the eSCL protocol
- Network-connected scanners
A Familiar Pattern: Stability vs. Progress in Updates
This is far from the first time Microsoft has paused an update due to bugs. Remember the infamous file deletion issues during a prior Windows 10 update? Or the sound driver mishaps? Here we are again. It’s another chapter in the age-old tech battle—pushing forward with innovation versus ensuring stability.With Windows 11, users felt like they were getting a polished experience compared to Windows 10's sometimes-messy updates. But the 24H2 release, launched with promises of Arm-PC enhancements and a streamlined environment for modern peripherals, now has some glaring cracks in its façade.
What You Should Do in the Meantime
If you’ve been notified that the update is blocked for your device—or worse, you’ve already upgraded and noticed issues—here’s what you can do:1. Check Your Compatibility via Safeguard ID
Admins using Windows Update for Business can track affected systems using Safeguard ID: 54762729. This unique identifier tags devices caught by the compatibility hold.2. Haven’t Updated? Stay Put
Avoid manual installations of the 24H2 update through other methods. Sit tight until Microsoft addresses and resolves the eSCL issue in an upcoming patch.3. Updated and Experiencing Problems? Troubleshooting Steps
- Reinstall Device Drivers: It may sound old school, but uninstalling and reinstalling the printer/scanner drivers might temporarily resolve detection issues.
- Switch Connection Type: If using USB, see if an Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection resolves the detectability of your device.
- Roll Back the Update: This is your nuclear option. If printing/scanning is a non-negotiable need, uninstall the 24H2 update (Settings > Windows Update > Update History > Uninstall Updates).
4. Wait for Microsoft’s Official Fix
Given the current widespread acknowledgment of the issue, Microsoft is likely hard at work on a hotfix that will enable safe installation of 24H2 without affecting USB devices.Wider Impacts and Industry Insight
The fallout from this incident highlights a broader concern about compatibility in modern operating systems. As manufacturers push for driverless operations and universal standards like Mopria’s eSCL or IPP (Internet Printing Protocol), they’re simultaneously increasing the likelihood of conflicts that manifest during OS updates. Would dedicated drivers have prevented this issue entirely? Perhaps, but standardization also means moving past cumbersome proprietary solutions.For now, it’s a tricky balancing act for Microsoft, whose ambitions to unify the Windows ecosystem often come at the cost of user trust.
Final Thoughts: Navigating the Challenges
For users, the ongoing compatibility issues are a sharp reminder that even small tweaks in operating systems can spiral into significant disruptions. For some, this will feel like déjà vu from past Windows 10 update struggles. Yet, it’s not all bad news—Microsoft’s proactive approach to impose a compatibility hold is a step in the right direction to avoid unnecessary chaos.So, hang tight. While this temporary block might feel like a speed bump for the tech-savvy out there ready to dive into 24H2, it serves a necessary pause to ensure everybody, from the casual home user to enterprise IT managers, has a smoother ride down the update highway.
Your move, Microsoft. Until then, we’ll be here with our coffee mugs and glitchy scanners, waiting.
Source: Neowin Microsoft blocks Windows 11 24H2 update as it breaks USB network modems, printers, scanners