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New Windows 11 Update Causes Major System Failures: What You Need to Know

Copyright & Fact Checker 30 September 2024

Microsoft recently rolled out the KB5043145 update for Windows 11, but it’s causing widespread issues. Users have reported that Wi-Fi, the Linux subsystem, and even keyboard and mouse functionality are being disrupted. In some cases, the dreaded “blue screen of death” (BSOD) appears, or worse, turns green due to this bug. Here’s a breakdown of the problem and how to resolve it.

What’s Gone Wrong?

The KB5043145 update affects Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 22H2, leading to the following issues:

  • Wi-Fi disabled: No network connectivity after the update.
  • Keyboard and mouse failure: Peripherals stop functioning, locking users out of their systems.
  • WSL 2.0 crash: Linux subsystem no longer works for developers who rely on it.
  • Blue screen of death: In some instances, even the BSOD turns into a green screen due to this glitch.

Although the update is not mandatory, many users found that it was installed automatically without consent, further aggravating the situation.

Microsoft’s Response

While Microsoft is aware of the problem, there is no official patch available yet. Unfortunately, recent trends in Microsoft updates have shown a decline in reliability, with regular patches often causing new issues.

How to Fix the Problems

If you’ve already installed KB5043145 and are facing issues, here are some steps you can take:

  1. Uninstall the Update:
    • Reboot your system and repeatedly press F8 or F11 to enter recovery mode.
    • Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Uninstall Updates.
    • Select KB5043145 from the list and remove it.
    • Restart your computer.
  2. Use the Command Line:
    • In recovery mode, access the command prompt.
    • Enter the command: wusa /uninstall /kb:5043145.
    • Restart your system.
  3. Disable Automatic Updates:
    • To avoid future headaches, consider disabling automatic updates temporarily. There are many guides available on how to do this.

Hardware Affected

Some specific devices and processors seem to be more prone to issues with this update:

  • Intel Celeron N5105 and Pentium Silver N6005: Users with these processors, especially those on Intel NUCs, have reported USB port failures.
  • Asus TUF and ROG laptops: Users have also reported peripheral failures after the update.

A Growing Shift to Linux

The instability of Windows updates is causing more users to explore alternatives like Linux. As of August 2024, Linux holds a 4.55% share of the global OS market, a record high. Many users are switching to distributions like Fedora, especially after facing issues like those caused by KB5043145.

Conclusion

For now, avoiding the KB5043145 update or removing it if already installed is the best course of action. Keep an eye out for future patches, but proceed with caution—recent Microsoft updates have shown a pattern of introducing new problems.