Microsoft Issues Warning for Windows 11 Users: Security Updates May Be Unavailable

A critical issue has been identified for Windows 11 installations that utilize a USB stick or CD to upgrade. Users who installed Windows 11 using certain security updates from October or November 2024 may find themselves unable to access any future security updates.

To remedy this, Microsoft recommends a fresh installation of Windows 11, opting for a different set of security updates.

As indicated in the recent Windows release health update, this security concern was first documented on December 24, 2024, and labeled resolved on February 6, 2025. The problem primarily affects those who utilized installation media from distribution channels during that period.

If you happen to be among those who installed the update through the Windows tab, you’ll still be able to receive security improvements as expected. The fix effectively is straightforward: do not install the problematic Windows 11 security update.

Continual security updates are essential as they address system vulnerabilities that could be abused by malicious entities, thereby ensuring the stability and safety of your system.

For users looking to maintain their systems, it’s advisable to keep up with regular software updates to mitigate risks and enhance overall computer performance.

Additionally, for those who installed Windows 11 via upgrade methods like Rufus or similar tools on unsupported hardware, a clean reinstall using the latest version available from Microsoft is recommended to resolve any discrepancies.