Windows 11 23H2 Update: SSH and File Explorer Bugs Unveiled

Windows 11 users, gather round! Microsoft has confirmed a series of hiccups following the latest cumulative updates for version 23H2. If you've recently installed KB5044285 (a mandatory patch) or KB5044380 (an optional update), you might find your system grumbling under the weight of these new bugs. Let's dive into the details, explore the broader implications, and discuss what you can do about it.

Breakdown of the Update Failures​

SSH Connections on the Fritz
One of the most significant issues arising from these updates is the disruption of SSH connections. Microsoft has acknowledged that users are facing difficulties as OpenSSH fails to start following the installation of these patches. This problem is particularly impactful for those in enterprise, education, and IoT environments, although there may also be implications for personal Windows 11 Pro and Home users.

What’s Going Wrong?​

• OpenSSH Failure: When the update takes effect, some users discover that their SSH service won't start, effectively barring access that many rely on for secure remote management.
• No Clear Logs: Unfortunately, the failure occurs without prompting any detailed logs, leaving users in the dark about how to resolve the situation.

Additional Surfacing Bugs​

As if that weren’t enough, users are also reporting problems with File Explorer functionalities.

File Tagging Gone Awry​

Before the recent updates, Windows allowed users to tag files (like JPGs and MP3s) conveniently through the Properties dialog. Upon entering initial characters in the Tags field, users typically received suggestions based on previous entries. However, after KB5044285, this drop-down suggestion feature has mysteriously vanished, frustrating users who depend on those tags for organization.

Disappearing Folder Thumbnail Previews​

Another quirk users have noted: the inability to replace folder front images effectively. Previously, one could swap in a different image, but now, all users are treated to an unsightly half-folder preview instead of the complete thumbnail. Let's face it, no one likes a frustrating “half-measure” look!

Steps to Address OpenSSH Issues​

If you've found yourself among the impacted with SSH connection problems, here's a step-by-step guide to attempt resolving this:

1. Open PowerShell: Right-click the Start button, select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. Update Folder Permissions:
   You will need administrative access to two specific directories:
   • C:\ProgramData\ssh
   • C:\ProgramData\ssh\logs
   You can update permissions using the following PowerShell commands:
   

   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 $sddlString $acl.SetSecurityDescriptorSddlForm($securityDescriptor.GetSddlForm("All")) Set-Acl -Path $directoryPath -AclObject $acl # Repeat for the logs folder $directoryPath = "C:\ProgramData\ssh\logs" $acl = Get-Acl -Path $directoryPath $acl.SetSecurityDescriptorSddlForm($securityDescriptor.GetSddlForm("All")) Set-Acl -Path $directoryPath -AclObject $acl

These commands will effectively reset the permissions and may help get your SSH service back online.

Broader Implications and Next Steps​

These updates were designed to enhance the Windows experience, but as is all too common in the tech world, updates can sometimes do more harm than good. Users relying on SSH connections for work find themselves in a bind, while others experience workflow disruptions due to the File Explorer issues.
It's crucial to keep an eye on Microsoft's communications as they investigate these problems. The company has stated they are actively working toward a resolution and is likely to roll out a fix in a future update.
In the meantime, how are you navigating these issues? Are you experiencing other problems in Windows 11 23H2 following the updates? Share your experiences in the comments below—let's help each other out!

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Source: Windows Latest Microsoft confirms issues in Windows 11 23H2 KB5044285, KB5044380