Microsoft has issued a rare apology following a critical error with a recent Windows update, admitting that a claimed fix for a persistent bug not only failed but exacerbated the problem for users. This acknowledgment comes amidst a growing list of software inconsistencies plaguing both Windows 11 and, more recently, Windows 10.
The core of the issue centers on a Windows 11 24H2 update that triggered a “critical Firewall error.” Initially described as a “false, harmless error” that caused alarm but no actual harm, Microsoft reportedly claimed this bug was patched in Windows 11 KB5062553. However, instead of resolving the issue, the update inadvertently introduced the error to a wider user base, making matters worse.
Reports indicate that the firewall problem, identified as “Windows Firewall With Advanced Security 2042 None,” continues to appear on devices, despite Microsoft’s assurances. Users are being advised that while the error message is alarming, it is purely a reporting bug and “poses no harm to your PC.” The glitch is attributed to a coding oversight introduced with recent updates for Windows 11 24H2, affecting only the event log entry and not the firewall’s functionality.
Windows 11 Update Woes Continue
This latest incident adds to a significant history of update-related challenges for Windows 11 users. The timing is particularly awkward for Microsoft, as it, alongside its OEM partners and government security agencies, actively encourages Windows 10 users to migrate to the newer operating system. This push persists despite Microsoft’s recent U-turn, which extended Windows 10’s end-of-life support for most users until October 2026.
The extensive issues reported for Windows 11 24H2 include a “fair share of issues,” ranging from minor annoyances to more severe problems like “blue screens of death” for gamers. Microsoft maintains that these issues are being actively addressed, but user frustration continues to mount.
Windows 10 Not Immune: New Warnings Emerge
For those Windows 10 users who might feel a sense of smugness at avoiding Windows 11’s troubles, a new warning suggests that recent Windows 10 updates are also experiencing their own set of glitches.
Recent security updates for Windows 10 have reportedly “wrecked some elements of the emoji picker” for users. Additionally, a fault has been identified within Family Safety’s web filtering, preventing parents from approving any browser other than Edge. This highlights a need for Microsoft to update its block lists with the latest versions of all supported browsers, ensuring proper functionality for parental controls.
While these Windows 10 issues are generally considered less severe compared to the more critical problems seen in Windows 11, they underscore the ongoing challenges in delivering seamless software updates across Microsoft’s ecosystem. The company’s recent apology serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in maintaining vast software platforms and the direct impact on millions of users worldwide.