Microsoft has released an out-of-band update, KB5061977, for Windows 11, version 24H2, elevating the OS build to 26100.4066. This update addresses critical issues that emerged following the May 2025 Patch Tuesday updates.
Key Fixes and Improvements:
- Blue Screen Error (0x18B SECURE_KERNEL_ERROR): This update resolves a critical issue where devices encountered a blue screen error with the code 0x18B, indicating a SECURE_KERNEL_ERROR. This problem was observed after installing the April 2025 Windows security update and restarting the device. Affected devices experienced unexpected system crashes during normal usage. (support.microsoft.com)
- Windows Hello Authentication Failures: An edge case issue where Windows Hello failed to function on devices with specific security features enabled has been addressed. Users were unable to log in using facial recognition or PIN after performing a system reset. This issue was particularly noted after selecting "Keep my Files" and "Local install" during the reset process. (support.microsoft.com)
- Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) Client Issues: The update fixes an issue affecting internet connectivity on devices after resuming from sleep mode. Users experienced intermittent internet connections due to problems with the DHCP client. (support.microsoft.com)
- File Systems: An issue where the operating system stopped unexpectedly, displaying a blue screen during normal usage with a user profile redirected to a network VHD(X), has been resolved. (support.microsoft.com)
- Imaging: The update addresses an issue where some content pages with JPEG images were not displaying correctly. (support.microsoft.com)
The KB5061977 update is crucial for maintaining system stability and security. The blue screen error (0x18B SECURE_KERNEL_ERROR) could potentially be exploited to cause denial-of-service conditions. The Windows Hello authentication failure posed risks related to credential validation, especially in environments relying on biometric authentication. The DHCP client issue could disrupt network availability, affecting communications of security tools. (redteamnews.com)
Deployment Recommendations:
Given the critical nature of the issues addressed, it is recommended that users and IT administrators prioritize the deployment of this update. Testing should focus on:
- Verifying the resolution of the blue screen error under various driver loads.
- Ensuring Windows Hello functions correctly after multiple authentication cycles.
- Confirming network stability during sleep/wake transitions.
Known Issues:
As of this release, there are no new known issues reported. Users should monitor the Windows release health dashboard for any updates.
In conclusion, the KB5061977 update is a critical release aimed at resolving significant issues affecting system stability and security. Timely installation is essential to ensure optimal performance and protection.
Source: Microsoft Support https://support.microsoft.com/en-us...-of-band-a15fd6bb-313a-4a24-9e35-21dbcad2aa99
