In what surely feels like a déjà vu moment for many Windows users, Microsoft has confirmed that a new update for Windows 11, specifically version 23H2, has inadvertently caused considerable problems with OpenSSH. Let’s unpack this situation, the implications for users, and what you can do to get things back on track.
Reports started rolling in from users confirming that the OpenSSH service—the very backbone for secure shell (SSH) connections—was failing to launch post-update. Microsoft’s acknowledgment of this issue has turned heads, especially as it affects a broad user base, including enterprise, IoT, education, and home customers. While Microsoft claims that the number of affected devices is "limited," this won’t offer much comfort for those ensnared in the snafu.
The failure of OpenSSH to start not only disrupts workflow but also poses a security risk, as users may be forced to look for less secure methods of connection in a pinch—in a world where cybersecurity is paramount, this is not a scenario any user wishes to encounter.
So, has the anxiety over automatic updates made you consider disabling them? While it may seem tempting, especially given the myriad of issues that can arise, updates often contain crucial security patches that keep your system safe from vulnerabilities.
Gather your SSH keys and hang tight; the next update might just resolve not only this issue but enhance Windows 11 yet further. In the meantime, feel free to share your experiences on the forum, and let’s navigate this terrain together.
Source: Neowin Microsoft confirms OpenSSH issues in Windows 11 23H2 KB5044380
What Happened?
On October 22, 2024, Microsoft rolled out KB5044380 for Windows 11 version 23H2, which included a host of improvements. From reducing battery drain to introducing remapping options for the new Copilot feature, many users eagerly awaited the advancements. However, as with many technological updates, everything went awry with OpenSSH, the widely used tool that facilitates secure remote connections.Reports started rolling in from users confirming that the OpenSSH service—the very backbone for secure shell (SSH) connections—was failing to launch post-update. Microsoft’s acknowledgment of this issue has turned heads, especially as it affects a broad user base, including enterprise, IoT, education, and home customers. While Microsoft claims that the number of affected devices is "limited," this won’t offer much comfort for those ensnared in the snafu.
Why OpenSSH Matters?
Understanding why OpenSSH issues are significant requires a dive into the heart of remote computing. SSH (Secure Shell) is the protocol that allows users to connect securely to remote computers, manage servers, and conduct various administrative tasks without physical access, greatly enhancing operational flexibility. Given the rise of remote work and cloud computing, OpenSSH is as essential as coffee on a Monday morning.The failure of OpenSSH to start not only disrupts workflow but also poses a security risk, as users may be forced to look for less secure methods of connection in a pinch—in a world where cybersecurity is paramount, this is not a scenario any user wishes to encounter.
The Workaround
As frustrating as this situation is, relief is at hand. Microsoft has provided a workaround for those who are impacted, involving some PowerShell wizardry to update directory permissions for OpenSSH. Here’s how to implement the fix:- Open PowerShell with administrative privileges.
- Execute the following commands:
Code:powershell $directoryPath = "C:\ProgramData\ssh" $acl = Get-Acl -Path $directoryPath $sddlString = "O:BAD:PAI(A;OICI;FA;;;SY)(A;OICI;FA;;;BA)(A;OICI;0x1200a9;;;AU)" $securityDescriptor = New-Object System.Security.AccessControl.RawSecurityDescriptor $acl.SetSecurityDescriptorSddlForm($securityDescriptor.GetSddlForm("All")) Set-Acl -Path $directoryPath -AclObject $acl - Repeat the above for the logs directory:
Code:powershell $directoryPath = "C:\ProgramData\ssh\logs"
A Broader Perspective on Windows 11 Updates
This isn’t the first time Windows 11 has stumbled following an update. It's an ongoing narrative for Microsoft as frequent patches often introduce unexpected behavior, like the recently identified issues with Task Manager not displaying the correct number of running applications in version KB5044384. With technology advancing at breakneck speed, manufacturers must ensure robust testing before pushing updates—something that has increasingly come under scrutiny.So, has the anxiety over automatic updates made you consider disabling them? While it may seem tempting, especially given the myriad of issues that can arise, updates often contain crucial security patches that keep your system safe from vulnerabilities.
Closing Thoughts
As Microsoft works diligently behind the scenes to rectify the OpenSSH issues in Windows 11 23H2 KB5044380, it’s crucial for users to stay informed and proactive. While technical hiccups are part and parcel of software updates, they should remind us of the resilience of technology and the importance of maintaining secure and efficient systems.Gather your SSH keys and hang tight; the next update might just resolve not only this issue but enhance Windows 11 yet further. In the meantime, feel free to share your experiences on the forum, and let’s navigate this terrain together.
Source: Neowin Microsoft confirms OpenSSH issues in Windows 11 23H2 KB5044380
