In January 2025, Microsoft released its Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 11, designated as KB5050009 and KB5050021. These updates aimed to address critical security vulnerabilities and enhance system stability. However, users have reported several issues following installation, prompting both user caution and Microsoft's acknowledgment of these problems.

Overview of the Updates

KB5050009: This update targets Windows 11 version 24H2, focusing on security improvements and quality enhancements. It includes all improvements from the previous update, KB5048667, released in December 2024. (support.microsoft.com) KB5050021: Applicable to Windows 11 versions 22H2 and 23H2, this update addresses security issues and incorporates quality improvements from KB5048685. It also adds to the Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist to mitigate risks associated with Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD) attacks. (support.microsoft.com)

Reported Issues and User Impact

Following the installation of these updates, users have encountered several issues:

  • Audio Device Failures: Many users have reported that USB audio devices, particularly those using USB 1.0 audio drivers, cease to function post-update. The Device Manager may display the error: 'This device cannot start. (Code 10) Insufficient system resources exist to complete the API.' Microsoft has acknowledged this issue and is working on a resolution. (windowslatest.com)
  • Camera Recognition Problems: Some users have found that their USB cameras are not recognized after the update, affecting functionality. This issue is also under investigation by Microsoft. (support.microsoft.com)
  • OpenSSH Service Failures: The OpenSSH service may fail to start, preventing SSH connections. This problem affects enterprise, IoT, and education customers, with manual intervention required to run the sshd.exe process. Microsoft is investigating this issue and has provided a temporary workaround involving updating permissions on specific directories. (support.microsoft.com)
  • Citrix Compatibility Issues: Devices with Citrix Session Recording Agent (SRA) version 2411 installed may experience installation failures of the January 2025 Windows security update. Affected devices might revert to previous updates after an error message appears during installation. Citrix has documented this issue and provided a workaround. (support.microsoft.com)

Recommendations for Affected Users

Users experiencing these issues are advised to:

  1. Uninstall the Updates: If the problems are significant, consider uninstalling the updates via the Windows Update history page.
  2. Pause Future Updates: Temporarily pause Windows Updates to prevent automatic reinstallation of the problematic updates.
  3. Monitor Official Communications: Keep an eye on Microsoft's official channels for updates and resolutions to these issues.

Conclusion

While the January 2025 updates for Windows 11 were intended to enhance system security and stability, they have introduced several issues affecting audio devices, cameras, and certain services. Microsoft is actively investigating these problems and has provided workarounds where possible. Users are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and exercise caution when applying updates that may impact system functionality.

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