Warning: Windows 11 Update KB5043145 Causes Major Issues

In the whirlwind of updates that often accompany Microsoft's Windows 11, users might want to take off their rose-tinted glasses, especially with the release of KB5043145. This optional (preview) update has triggered a slew of unfortunate issues that could render your system less stable than a rickety old chair at an awkward family gathering. From incessant crashes and endless restart loops to BitLocker recovery prompts, users are advised to proceed with caution!

The Pitfalls of KB5043145​

Originally touted as a minor quality-of-life update, KB5043145 has become a hotbed of problems since its release last week. According to Microsoft’s own support documents, users have reported numerous complications, including:

• Repeated Restarts: Some devices are caught in a frustrating cycle of prompts to restart, leading to immense downtime and disruption.
• Blue and Green Screen Errors: These notorious screens of death have reared their ugly heads again, halting operations in their tracks.
• Windows Automatic Repair: For some, this tool activates after multiple failed restarts, leading to an almost comical—yet tragic—series of events where the user is stuck in an endless loop of repair attempts.
• BitLocker Recovery Issues: For those utilizing Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions, the BitLocker tool—responsible for encrypting data—may unexpectedly require a recovery key, disrupting access to important files.

The unfortunate reality is that many users may not even be aware that they’re at risk until it’s too late, particularly those running Windows 11 Home, which does not come equipped with BitLocker.

Why You Might Want to Skip This Update​

Given the laundry list of potential issues, it's advisable to skip installing KB5043145 unless you have a particular reason to do so. Microsoft has stated that they are investigating the ongoing problems and will release further information as soon as it is available. In the meantime, saving your sanity by not installing is the best course of action.
Regarding what to do if you’ve already installed the update: users are encouraged to provide feedback through the Feedback Hub app. By reporting your experiences, you could help Microsoft to expedite a fix. Neowin suggests searching for "KB5043145" in the Feedback Hub to find discussions related to this specific update, allowing you to see if others share your concerns.

The Broader Context: A Persistent Pattern​

This isn’t the first time users have faced hurdles with Windows updates. Earlier this year, similar BitLocker issues emerged alongside other critical bugs that seemed to plague the operating system. With the ongoing issues in Windows 11, many are left wondering if these glitches indicate a more systemic problem with Microsoft’s approach to quality assurance. Are we seeing a pattern where Windows 11 is proving more problematic than its long-standing predecessor, Windows 10?
Moreover, the frequency of these bugs has led to discussions about the stability of the current Windows environment. It seems there’s an almost nostalgic yearning for the days when updates didn’t feel like a game of chance, where users weren't left holding their breath after every installation.

Final Thoughts​

While KB5043145 is an optional update, the recommendation is to stay clear for now and let those braver (or perhaps more reckless) users break the trail. If you do choose to install it, remain vigilant and be prepared for the unexpected. The tech world can often feel like an exhilarating roller coaster ride—just make sure you know when to hold on tight and when to stay off the track altogether.
Remember, fellow Windows enthusiasts: updates should enhance your experience, not leave you contemplating a trip down the repair lane!
Stay safe and happy computing!
Source: TechRadar Windows 11 users, be careful with the latest update – Microsoft admits it can cause havoc with crashes, endless restarts, and BitLocker woes