Windows 11 Fix: Date & Time Bug Resolved with KB5050094 Update

In a significant relief for Windows 11 users, Microsoft has finally squashed the notorious Date & Time bug that has been plaguing the Windows 11 24H2 release. This fix, rolled out via the January 28 optional update (KB5050094), now allows non-admin users to change their time zone settings without the need for administrative privileges.

What Was the Issue?​

For many Windows 11 users, especially those operating on non-admin accounts, adjusting the system's date and time has been more than just a minor inconvenience. The bug specifically prevented these users from accessing the Date & Time page within the Settings app. While administrator accounts weren't affected and could tweak their settings as usual, regular users found themselves locked out of a feature that's both essential and straightforward. This issue was first confirmed by Microsoft back in November 2024, and although it might have slipped under the radar for many, it was a constant source of frustration for those affected.

The Fix: KB5050094 Update​

With the release of the optional January 28 update, Microsoft has addressed this long-standing bug. The update ensures that all Windows 11 24H2 users, regardless of their account type, now have access to the Date & Time settings directly through the Settings app. Users will officially receive the fix on February 11 with the February 2025 Patch Tuesday updates, so patience is definitely warranted if you haven't applied the optional update yet.

Quick Recap:​

• Affected Version: Windows 11 24H2
• Issue: Non-admin users couldn’t access the Date & Time page in Settings
• Fix: Optional update KB5050094 now allows everyone access
• General Rollout: Patch Tuesday, February 2025

Workaround for the Time Being​

Not keen on installing the optional update just yet? Microsoft has been kind enough to provide a temporary workaround. Non-admin users can still change their date and time by using the classic Control Panel. Here’s how you can do it:

• Open the Start Menu: Just click on the Start button as usual.
• Search for the Control Panel: Type “Control Panel” in the search bar and hit enter.
• Access Date & Time Settings: In Control Panel, use the search functionality to find “change the time zone” and select the corresponding result.
• Alternatively: Press Windows + R, type timedate.cpl, and press Enter to open the Date and Time window directly.

These simple steps ensure you remain productive and in control of your system settings, even if you prefer not to install the latest update immediately.

Broader Implications for Windows 11 Users​

While this fix might seem minor in the grand scheme of Windows updates (especially when weighed against patches for critical security vulnerabilities or performance issues), it underscores several important facts about the modern Windows ecosystem:

• User Experience: Even small usability bugs can have a big impact on everyday productivity. It’s essential that all users, regardless of permissions, receive functionalities that meet their needs.
• Timely Updates: Microsoft’s commitment to addressing issues promptly—especially those affecting the non-admin demographic—reinforces the importance of keeping your system updated.
• Built-In Flexibility: The workaround via Control Panel highlights the system's resilience and flexibility, ensuring that there's often more than one way to perform essential tasks.

A Nod to Patch Tuesday​

Once again, Microsoft demonstrates the importance of Patch Tuesday in maintaining system stability. As we officially enter February, Windows users around the globe will be receiving their monthly dose of security patches and improvements. This update further emphasizes that even optional updates can resolve significant annoyances, which in turn can enhance overall system usability and security.

Final Thoughts​

For Windows enthusiasts and IT professionals alike, the resolution of this Date & Time bug serves as a reminder that even the smallest inconveniences deserve attention. Whether you’re a non-admin user who has been eagerly awaiting the fix, or an admin looking to stay informed on the latest system tweaks, this update illustrates Microsoft's ongoing effort to refine the Windows experience.
We invite you to share your thoughts on this fix on the forum. Have you installed KB5050094 yet? Did you resort to the Control Panel workaround? Let's continue the discussion on how these updates are making everyday computing smoother for Windows 11 users.
Stay tuned here at WindowsForum.com for more in-depth analyses on the latest Windows 11 updates and other related Microsoft security patches and advisories. Happy updating!

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Source: BleepingComputer https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/microsoft-has-finally-fixed-date-and-time-bug-in-windows-11/