Windows 11 24H2: BSOD Issues Caused by Voicemeeter App

Microsoft has recently admitted to yet another vexing issue plaguing Windows 11 version 24H2, famously known for its transformative updates. This latest bug has users facing the unwelcome sight of the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), particularly when running certain applications, specifically the popular Voicemeeter app.

What You Need to Know About the New Bug​

According to Microsoft’s documentation, the issue leads to a crash accompanied by the MEMORY_MANAGEMENT error code. This situation arises due to compatibility problems between the Voicemeeter driver and the Windows memory manager. The developer of Voicemeeter, VB-Audio Software, has yet to release a fixed driver version, leaving users in a bit of a bind.

Compatibility Measures​

In line with its ongoing strategy to safeguard user experience, Microsoft has placed a compatibility hold on Windows 11 24H2 for systems running Voicemeeter. Consequently, users of this application will not see the update to 24H2 appear in Windows Update. Moreover, Microsoft advises against manually forcing the update using the Installation Assistant or Media Creation Tool as these methods may also lead to instability.
Workaround: The only immediate solution recommended by Microsoft is to uninstall the Voicemeeter app and its components entirely. Alternatively, the users could wait for an update from VB-Audio Software, which should rectify the issue. However, users need to be cautious; the hold may take up to 24 hours to lift after the app is removed from the system.

The Big Picture​

This latest bug is not an isolated case but part of a growing list of known issues with Windows 11 version 24H2, which is itself a significant feature update heralding a full OS swap. This broader update has been met with mixed reviews largely because it has introduced other challenges. Notably, there have been reports of applications freezing when the integrated camera is in use as well as conflicting issues with select Asus devices, which have also been blocked from the upgrade.

Why These Bugs Matter​

Unexpected system crashes can undermine the productivity of any Windows user. For casual users, there's the frustration of losing unsaved work and needing to repeatedly reboot their PCs, while for professionals using their systems for business, these incidents could lead to critical downtimes. The implications of these BSOD occurrences reflect poorly on Microsoft’s update rollout strategy, making it essential that they pay closer attention to system compatibility and user experiences.

Going Forward​

Users planning to upgrade to Windows 11 version 24H2, especially those running unsupported devices, should stay vigilant and regularly check for updates and fixes. This includes being aware of existing workarounds for other problems like freezing apps and compatibility issues with their hardware.

Summary​

Microsoft’s recent admission of another bug causing BSODs in Windows 11 v24H2, particularly affecting Voicemeeter users, highlights ongoing struggles in delivering seamless updates. While the remedy is to uninstall the problematic app, the situation serves as a reminder to users about the importance of cautious updating and the potential need to adapt their usage habits until a more stable version is available.
For anyone experiencing issues with the update, it is prudent to remove problematic applications and stay tuned for announcements from Microsoft regarding fixes. Your Windows experience should ideally be smooth and crisis-free—not marred by frequent crashes and unexpected errors.
Source: Neowin Microsoft confirms another bug causing blue screens of death in Windows 11 24H2