Overview

In April 2025, Microsoft released security update KB5055528 for Windows 11 versions 22H2 and 23H2. Subsequently, enterprise administrators utilizing Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) encountered significant issues when attempting to deploy the Windows 11 24H2 feature update. The deployment process failed, presenting error code 0x80240069 and causing the Windows Update service (INLINECODE0 ) to crash unexpectedly. (bleepingcomputer.com)

Background on WSUS

WSUS is a critical tool for IT administrators, enabling centralized management of Microsoft product updates across enterprise networks. By controlling the approval and scheduling of updates, WSUS ensures that systems remain secure and up-to-date without relying on individual endpoints to connect directly to Microsoft's servers.

Technical Details of the Issue

After installing the April 2025 security update KB5055528, systems running Windows 11 22H2 or 23H2 experienced failures when attempting to upgrade to version 24H2 via WSUS. The process would not initiate or complete, and administrators observed error code 0x80240069 in the Windows Update logs. Additional logs indicated that the INLINECODE1 service had unexpectedly stopped. (bleepingcomputer.com)

Microsoft's Response and Resolution

Microsoft acknowledged the issue and identified that the problem was introduced by the April 2025 security update. To address this, Microsoft implemented a Known Issue Rollback (KIR), a mechanism that allows the company to revert specific problematic changes introduced by an update without requiring a full new build. Administrators were advised to deploy a special Group Policy to affected systems to apply the rollback. The Group Policy could be found under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates and was available for download from Microsoft's official documentation. (borncity.com)

Implications for Enterprise Environments

This incident underscores the complexities involved in managing updates within enterprise environments. While WSUS provides robust control over update deployment, unforeseen issues like this can disrupt operations and delay critical upgrades. It highlights the importance of thorough testing and monitoring of updates before widespread deployment.

Recommendations for IT Administrators

To mitigate similar issues in the future, IT administrators should consider the following best practices:

  • Staged Deployment: Implement updates in phases, starting with a small group of systems before a full rollout.
  • Monitoring and Logging: Utilize monitoring tools to detect and address issues promptly during the update process.
  • Regular Backups: Maintain up-to-date backups to restore systems if an update causes significant problems.
  • Stay Informed: Regularly review Microsoft's release notes and community forums for information on known issues and resolutions.

Conclusion

The deployment failures of Windows 11 24H2 via WSUS due to error 0x80240069 highlight the challenges of managing updates in enterprise settings. Microsoft's swift response through the Known Issue Rollback demonstrates the company's commitment to resolving such issues promptly. By adhering to best practices and staying informed, IT administrators can better navigate the complexities of update management and maintain system integrity.