Latest Windows 10 and 11 Update Problems and How to Fix Them

Windows 10 and Windows 11 have had their share of problems. According to the Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC), the operating system experienced nearly 1280 security vulnerabilities in the year 2023. Microsoft quickly moves in to fix many of these security holes in the system, so it’s essential to stay up to date. Yet, Windows updates can bring their own problems. This guide shows what to do when an update does more harm than good.

Note: if a problem here is marked as “FIXED,” it means Microsoft has rolled out an update that fixes the problem, and the solution is simply to make sure your system is fully updated. If a problem is not yet “FIXED,” then either read that entry for workarounds to that specific problem or scroll down the page for advice on how to roll back updates.

[Not Fixed] March 12, 2024, Windows 11, KB5035853 Cumulative Update

Problems: issue with video output | Slow PC performance | Blue screen (BSOD) crashes

The KB5035853 update is a part of Microsoft’s Patch Tuesday update announcement for the month of March. Highlighted is support for USB bandwidth up to 80 Gbps, which is almost double the previous versions. The update fixes the unnecessary freezes on the home screen and addresses networking problems that caused Wi-Fi networks to switch automatically.

The update has introduced stuttering, audio glitches and video playback problems, but don’t wait for another update. You can try optimizing your mouse settings, such as adjusting cursor sensitivity and disabling mouse acceleration. Additionally, high CPU usage (reaching 100%) might be contributing to the stuttering.

Blue screen of death seems to have become a regular bane of Windows updates. Users are now reporting DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION affecting Ryzen and other AMD machines. If you’ve run into an annoying BSOD crash during a restart, use one of our methods to resolve the issue.

Some users may also be experiencing a sluggish PC following the update. This is a common problem and can often be attributed to accumulated app cache and potential security concerns. This can be easily tackled through regular disk cleanups and an occasional cloud reset. If you’re facing unexpected shutdowns, try removing any schedules for the shutdowns.

[Fixed] February 29, 2024, Windows 11 23 H2, KB5034848 Optional Update

Problems: failure to install | PC crashes

The KB5034848 update was launched on the last day of February 2024. Microsoft’s Phone Link settings have been renamed “Mobile Devices.” The option is available through Settings -> Bluetooth & Devices.

Also, the Snipping Tool on your PC is now compatible with Android phones, and you’ll get an instant notification for Snipping edits on your Windows PC when you take a photo on your Android.

Generally, this update has been problem-free. Some users have reported PC crashes, though. If you’re fed up with your computer crashing frequently, we have a mix of hardware and software solutions that will get you back up in no time.

If you can’t install KB5034848 on your PC on your normal schedule, it’s always easier to do it from the Microsoft Update Catalog.

There have also been failures to install Windows updates on the device. Opting for a cloud-based device reset (while keeping your files) is the best way to deal with any installation errors, but it consumes a lot of time. If you’re going to install an update, where there could be system freezes and a stuck installation, it’s a good idea to run the Windows 11 Update Troubleshooter first. Find it by navigating to System -> Troubleshoot -> Other troubleshooters.

The troubleshooter will fix any issues that were preventing installation: mostly security settings, missing or corrupt files, or problems with Service Registration. Other issues could be connected to Windows Network Diagnostics, IsPostback_RC_PendingUpdates, WaaSMedicService, and BITS service.

Note: if you’ve missed many updates, we recommend reinstalling Windows 11 from the cloud via Windows installation assistant, ISO, media creation or another tool.

[Fixed] February 13, 2024, Windows 11 23H2, KB5034765 Cumulative Update

Problems: Taskbar issues | Update won’t install | Explorer.exe crashes

Windows 11’s cumulative update for February, KB5034765, has an exciting new feature. Copilot mode is available on a user’s desktop screen and can be opened from the System Tray. GPT-5 access may be available in the future.

Some who installed this update faced the taskbar icons missing problem, which, fortunately, is a very easy fix. If you’re dealing with an unresponsive taskbar, follow this detailed guide. Explorer.exe crashes are another sore point of the update, but can be resolved using Chkdsk and DISM checks.

[Fixed] January 23, 2024, Windows 11 23H2, KB5034204 Cumulative Update

Problems: multi-monitor glitches in Copilot | Bluetooth audio reception problems | failure to download and install the update

The KB5034204 update brings bug fixes on many past issues, such as when the search button was not working with the Start menu. It also addresses the problems with BitLocker data encryption and File Explorer, Bluetooth LE and 7-Zip files.

This update was having issues with the new Bing Copilot feature in a multi-monitor setup, where the icons felt out of alignment. Check out these solutions, if you are dealing with Bluetooth audio delays.

To prevent failure, try disabling antivirus other than Windows Defender, and solve critical process errors by running a Deployment Image Servicing scan (DISM).

Tip: if there is a mismatch between the advertised features and what you’re getting on a Windows 11 update, it’s because they’re not Trusted Platform Module-ready. Try installing TPM.

For any Wi-Fi problems you encounter in Windows, follow one of these fixes in our detailed guide.

GOOD NEWS: Microsoft had earlier mandated all Windows 11 users to compulsorily migrate to version 23H2 by Feb. 27, 2024, as the non-security support for version 22H2 was supposed to end by that date. But after several complaints, the date has been moved to June 24, 2025.

Error Code 0x800f0831

Problem: update fails to install

This is one of the more common errors that may occur when you try to update Windows.

Essentially, the above error code means your update has failed, but there are several things you can do to troubleshoot this problem:

• If there’s a conflict with your VPN or proxy server, make sure it’s completely disabled when trying to update Windows. You may even need to uninstall and reinstall the software.
• Scan for corrupt system files.
• For this and other update errors, you can try finding the update in question in the Microsoft Update Catalog and installing it manually.

[Not Fixed] March 17, 2024, Windows 10 Version 22H2, KB5001716 Quality Updates

Problems: update won’t uninstall | can’t open Office 2010 files (.docx, .xlsx, etc.), Restore point and services vanished |

As it happens sometimes, Microsoft unleashed a sneaky update, KB5001718, on Windows 10, possibly because no new exciting features are being added to its most popular operating system. The unpredictable update immediately caused problems with Office 2010 apps, such as Word and Excel. And the System Restore points appear to have been deleted.

This update is not recommended and should not download automatically without your consent. However, if you’ve encountered an issue with it, there’s no need to panic. Reset your Windows 10 PC by going to Start -> Settings -> Update & Security -> Recovery -> Reset this PC.

If you want to keep your personal files, choose the Keep my files option during the reset process. Otherwise, select Remove everything for a clean install. While resetting your PC can be time-consuming, it’s a way to get the latest Windows 10 updates without encountering problems from the previous update.

[Not Fixed] March 12, 2024, Windows 10 Version 22H2, KB5035853 Security Update

Problems: multi-monitor issues | Copilot issues

KB5035853 is just a minor security update in Windows 10. While Copilot has been a welcome addition to the Windows 10 products, it is causing multi-monitor setup issues and doesn’t work when your taskbar is aligned vertically or sideways. Currently, a solution is pending for this on Windows 10; however, a similar problem has already been resolved in Windows 11.

Check out the best ways to optimize your multi-monitor setup for a glitch-free experience.

[Not Fixed] Feb 29, 2024, Windows 10 Version 22H2, KB5034843 Quality Update

Problems: similar to above

The KB6034843 update brought exciting new features to Windows 10 users. Using “Windows share,” a new app, you can share URLs to apps like WhatsApp, Gmail, Facebook, and LinkedIn. It also fixes many issues related to Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows Hello.

The update is having similar issues as KB5035853, with the same solutions.

[Not Fixed] February 13, 2024, Windows 10 Version 22H2, KB5034763 Security Update

Problems: similar to above

KB5034763 is a minor security update for the month of February. To support the large segment of Windows 10 users vs. Windows 11 users, ~64% to ~31%, in the US, Copilot mode was introduced in Windows 10. However, the feature has not proved very popular yet in Windows 10.

[Fixed] January 23, 2024, Windows 10 Version 22H2, KB5034203 Security Update

Problems: Remote Desktop login problems | failure to install

With KB5034203, there is a new update in the Weather app that will display dynamic updates near the lockscreen. It also addresses a security issue for a Windows Local Administrator Password solution.

Some Windows 10 users have reported that the update failed to install on their devices. This is especially true for those who are far behind on updating their devices. Some using the Remote Desktop feature are also experiencing problems logging in to the device. It will help to run the Windows Update Troubleshooter, as it allows all update problems to be diagnosed.

Tip: recover your apps and files using the Find My Device feature. If you can’t boot into your device, perform a clean install and other methods,

How to Fix and Avoid Broken Windows Updates

If the problem you’ve encountered with a new Windows update is that the install stops at a certain percentage, or more generally, that it’s failing to install altogether, try installing the update from PowerShell.

Open PowerShell as administrator by typing it into the Start menu search. In PowerShell, use this command:

Install-Module PSWindowsUpdate

It may ask you to install and import the NuGet provider. Press Y for Yes, and let it install the package.

You may get a warning that you are installing the modules from an untrusted repository. Type A to allow all the changes.

Check for the latest Windows updates by typing the following into PowerShell:

Get-WindowsUpdate

Once you’ve confirmed that there are updates to install, type the following command. You may further be asked if you want to perform this action, to which you must type A to finalize.

Install-WindowsUpdate

Wait for the broken Windows updates to heal themselves. They will automatically execute in the PowerShell window.

Tip: how does PowerShell differ from Command Prompt? Read on to find out.

Install Optional Updates

If you access the Windows update screen by going to Settings -> Windows Update -> Advanced Options -> Additional Options, you will find the Optional Updates menu.

These updates are designed specifically to address feature, quality, and driver issues for recent Windows updates. They become “proper” updates a few weeks later, once they’ve been thoroughly tested.

These updates are still pretty stable, though, and may be worth a shot if a recent update has broken something in Windows.

Uninstall Windows Updates

You can uninstall smaller Windows updates (to roll back builds, see the next section) if needed.

In Windows 10, go to Control Panel -> Programs -> Programs and Features -> Installed updates.

Scroll down in the main pane to the Microsoft Windows heading, and you’ll see all of the KB and security updates for Windows 10, along with the dates they were installed. Right-click the one you want to uninstall, and reboot your PC.

Windows 11 also has the option to uninstall recent updates. Visit Settings -> Windows Update -> Update History –> Uninstall updates and click the Uninstall button next to the update you want to eliminate. In this example, we are uninstalling three different updates for the month of January 2024.

How to Roll Back Windows Builds

After every major update, Windows gives you a 10-day window to roll back to a previous version. It’s a useful feature and should give you enough time to judge whether you have a problematic update on your hands. Of course, this won’t recover your files if Windows deletes them, but at least you’ll be on a more stable version of the OS.

Go to Settings -> Update & security -> Recovery in Windows 10 or Settings -> System -> Recovery in Windows 11.

Below Reset this PC, you should see the option to Go back to the previous version of Windows.

Click Get started, then follow the steps to roll back Windows. Again, this option is only available for 10 days after a Windows build update.

Check Your Windows Build

Before looking into rolling back and fixing broken Windows updates, check the build of Windows you’re currently using to confirm which issues are affecting you.

Go to Settings -> Windows Update -> Update history (in Windows 11) or Settings -> Update & Security -> Windows Update -> View Update history (in Windows 10).

In the new window, click the arrow next to Feature Updates to see the version of Windows you’re currently using, and click Quality Updates to see all of the smaller KB updates you have installed.

You will also find Definition Updates, which are security intelligence updates related to Microsoft Defender.

At the bottom of the list, you may find Other Updates, concerning programs such as the Windows Malicious Software Removal tool, Intelligence updates, and security patches.

Pause Windows Updates

Another thing you can do to avoid getting the above update problems and more is to take over control when Windows updates. This way, you can hold off getting updates the moment Microsoft rolls them out, monitor the news for a bit to see if any significant errors crop up, then manually do the update yourself.

If you’re running Windows 11, go to Settings -> Windows Update -> More options -> Pause updates, and choose the number of weeks you wish to defer updates in the future (from the default of one week to up to five weeks).

In Windows 10 Home, Pro, Enterprise, Education, or S, you can postpone updates by checking the same option under Settings -> Update & Security -> Windows Update. On some Windows 10 versions, it may be referred to as Defer instead of Pause and available under a different heading.

Tip: did you know that Windows comes with a Super Administrator account? Learn how to activate it.

Completely Block Windows Updates

If you want to completely block Windows updates indefinitely, disable the main Windows Update service through the Registry Editor.

Click Start, type regedit, open the Registry Editor, and navigate to the following path:

Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\WaaSMedicSvc

Right-click on Start to modify it, then change its Value data to 4.

Reboot your PC, then go to the Services window by using the Search function in Windows. You can disable the Windows Update service in the same window by setting its startup type as Disabled.

Few things on PC are more frustrating than an update – ostensibly to improve performance – borking your system. Unfortunately, Microsoft still has work to do in this respect. Other issues with Windows include the Microsoft Store not working and a malfunctioning microphone. We can help with these, too!

Image credit: Pixabay. All screenshots by Sayak Boral.

Sayak Boral - Staff Writer

Sayak Boral is a technology writer with over eleven years of experience working in different industries including semiconductors, IoT, enterprise IT, telecommunications OSS/BSS, and network security. He has been writing for MakeTechEasier on a wide range of technical topics including Windows, Android, Internet, Hardware Guides, Browsers, Software Tools, and Product Reviews.