Microsoft has recently lifted a compatibility hold that had been preventing users of Easy Anti-Cheat from upgrading to Windows 11 version 24H2. This decision follows the resolution of a critical issue that was causing systems to experience unexpected restarts accompanied by blue screen of death (BSOD) errors.
In June 2025, Microsoft acknowledged a significant problem affecting devices running Easy Anti-Cheat—a widely used anti-cheating service integrated into numerous multiplayer games such as Apex Legends, War Thunder, Dead by Daylight, ELDEN RING, Rust, Squad, and NBA 2K25. Users reported sudden system reboots and BSODs linked to crashes in
ntoskrnl.exe or EasyAntiCheat_EOS.exe during gameplay. To address this, Microsoft released an emergency update (KB5063060) on June 11, 2025, targeting Windows 11 24H2 systems to rectify the incompatibility issue. Despite the release of this update, Microsoft maintained a safeguard hold to prevent affected devices from upgrading to Windows 11 version 24H2, ensuring that users would not encounter the BSOD issue during the update process. On July 24, 2025, after confirming the effectiveness of the fix, Microsoft announced the removal of this update block. The company stated, "The safeguard hold has been removed as of July 24, 2025. Eligible devices without other safeguard holds can install Windows 11, version 24H2 via Windows Update."
However, Microsoft also noted that some devices might display a warning indicating the presence of an incompatible version of Easy Anti-Cheat. In such cases, users are advised to update the software by launching and updating frequently played games, as these updates often include the latest compatible versions of Easy Anti-Cheat. Importantly, the known issue will not trigger a BSOD unless older versions of Easy Anti-Cheat are launched as part of a game.
This development is part of Microsoft's ongoing efforts to address compatibility issues that have affected the rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2. In recent months, the company has also lifted update blocks related to other applications, including AutoCAD and Safe Exam Browser, following the resolution of launch and crash issues associated with these programs. (bleepingcomputer.com, bleepingcomputer.com)
For users who have been awaiting the opportunity to upgrade to Windows 11 version 24H2, this announcement brings welcome news. Ensuring that all software, particularly Easy Anti-Cheat, is updated to the latest versions will help provide a smooth and stable experience on the new operating system.
Source: BleepingComputer Microsoft lifts Windows 11 update block for Easy Anti-Cheat users
