Windows 11 24H2 Update: 9 Bugs You Should Know Before Upgrading

With the arrival of Windows 11 24H2 on October 1, 2024, one would anticipate a wave of innovation and performance upgrades. However, many users have been met not with efficiency, but with a veritable smorgasbord of bugs and issues. Microsoft’s latest update, which was initially celebrated for enhancing Copilot AI capabilities and refining File Explorer, has a darker side that potential upgraders should consider. Here are nine compelling reasons to hold off on this update until further notice.

1. System File Checker Bug​

At the forefront of the glitch parade is the System File Checker (SFC) tool. Intended to scan and repair corrupted system files, the SFC has become a source of confusion. Users report an endless loop of false positives, where the SFC claims to fix issues that aren't there. This isn’t just a minor hiccup—it's a significant hindrance for those relying on this utility to maintain system integrity. The bug stems from faulty hash value comparisons linked to WebView2-related files, rendering the SFC practically useless under this update.

Summary​

• Issue: SFC reports false positives continuously.
• Cause: Incorrect hash values for certain files.

2. Cache File Deletion Glitch​

Another delightful surprise for users is the unremovable 8.63GB cache that clings stubbornly to hard drives post-update. Although Microsoft has stated this is merely a reporting issue, users struggle to see any actual free space reflected on their systems, leading to unnecessary anxiety about storage woes.

Summary​

• Issue: Unable to delete large cache files.
• Resolution: Use "Windows Update Cleanup" in Disk Cleanup.

3. Trouble with Easy Anti-Cheat​

Gaming has also taken a blow with compatibility issues involving Easy Anti-Cheat, a standard program for many online games. Specific configurations, especially those using Intel’s Alder Lake+ processors, are prone to the infamous Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). Microsoft acknowledges this and is collaborating with the developer but, until then, gamers may need to tread carefully.

Summary​

• Issue: Compatibility issues with Easy Anti-Cheat lead to BSOD.
• Affected Users: Primarily those on Alder Lake+ processors.

4. General BSOD Incidences​

If you thought it couldn’t get worse, think again. Various system configurations are encountering fresh BSOD errors, particularly with certain Intel Smart Sound Technology drivers and select Western Digital SSDs. Users with specific MSI and Asus Z890 motherboards might see premature crashes as well.

Summary​

• Issue: Frequent BSOD across multiple hardware setups.
• Resolution: Await driver updates from Intel and Microsoft.

5. Vanishing Mouse Pointer​

One bizarre quirk users have reported is the disappearance of the mouse pointer in Chromium-based browsers during text input. Luckily, there’s a workaround, but that’s far from an ideal long-term solution.

Summary​

• Issue: Mouse cursor vanishes in certain apps.
• Workaround: Temporary fixes available, but inconsistent.

6. Internet Connectivity Problems​

Some users are discovering internet connectivity issues. Despite being connected via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, a valid IP address is often unattainable, rendering the connection useless. Traditional troubleshooting methods like driver updates and network resets have failed users, though some found success with static IP addresses.

Summary​

• Issue: Invalid IP addresses leading to connectivity problems.
• Temporary Solution: Switch from dynamic to static IP settings.

7. Fingerprint Sensor Failures​

With biometric security on the rise, it’s alarming that fingerprint sensors on some devices have become unresponsive post-update. Users reported difficulties logging in, forcing reliance on traditional methods instead.

Summary​

• Issue: Fingerprint authentication fails.
• Affected Users: Specific devices using fingerprint technology.

8. Broken Clipboard History​

Ah, the trusty clipboard! Once a seamless tool for data management, it now falters in the newest update, often insisting it’s empty despite the presence of copied items. Unfortunately, this bug persisted despite prior awareness by the Windows Insider team before the release—a disappointment for many.

Summary​

• Issue: Clipboard history reported empty.
• Context: Previously flagged bug that was not resolved.

9. Network Sharing Issues​

Finally, network sharing seems to have taken a hit, as many devices do not appear on local networks anymore. This could hinder file sharing and printer access significantly, likely related to settings in Function Discovery Resource Publication (FDResPub).

Summary​

• Issue: Devices fail to appear on the network.
• Workaround: Set FDResPub to start manually.

Final Thoughts​

The multitude of bugs accompanying the Windows 11 24H2 update raises red flags for any Windows user contemplating an upgrade. Microsoft has historically delivered robust updates, but the rampant issues within this version suggest a departure from that standard. The recommendation for now? It might be best to stick with your current version, absorbing the excitement of the promised new features vicariously while maintaining a smooth, reliable computing environment. Until these bugs are resolved, patience may just be a virtue worth cultivating.
Stay informed, and happy computing!
Source: ZDNET 10 pesky Windows 11 24H2 bugs still haunting PCs despite several patches