Comprehensive Review of Windows 11 24H2 Update
In October, after months of beta testing, Microsoft officially released its major 2024 update for Windows 11. Known as Windows 11 24H2, this new version brings a host of enhancements, including an improved Copilot AI, a better File Explorer, faster performance, and greater stability. The update also introduces several other improvements designed to enhance the overall user experience.
Update Availability and Installation
The update, which is rolling out to eligible Windows 11 23H2 and 22H2 users, may appear on your PC's Windows Update screen. If so, you can certainly install it from there. Otherwise, the new version is accessible on Microsoft’s Download Windows 11 page, where you can download it through the Installation Assistant, installation media, or as an ISO file.
Challenges and Bug Fixes
Before you dive into the 2024 update, it's important to be aware that you may encounter some problems and conflicts. The new version has been plagued by bugs that could impact the reliability and effectiveness of Windows. Microsoft has documented many of the glitches, and users have reported numerous additional problems. In response, Microsoft has put the update on hold for problematic PCs that could encounter blue screens and other issues.
To address the barrage of bugs, the company has rolled out several sets of patches:
| Date | Patch Description |
|---|---|
| Late October | Initial bug fixes and improvements. |
| Mid-November | Addressed additional bugs and glitches. |
| December 10 | Resolved issues with certain USB-connected scanners and other devices. |
| Early January | Fixed conflicts with Ubisoft games like "Star Wars Outlaws" and "Assassin's Creed" series. |
| January 14 | Introduced new bugs, including conflicts with audio devices, Bluetooth connections, and webcams. |
| January 28 | Optional preview update that addressed several outstanding bugs. |
| February Patch Tuesday | Further addressed persistent glitches. |
Ongoing Issues
AutoCAD 2022 Compatibility
On some PCs running Windows 11 24H2, Autodesk AutoCAD 2022 might not open, with users reporting error messages. Microsoft has blocked the update for affected PCs and is working on a fix.
Citrix Components Conflict
PCs with certain Citrix components may not be able to complete the installation of the January patches. This issue affects devices with Citrix Session Recording Agent (SRA) version 2411, and Microsoft is collaborating with Citrix to resolve the problem.
Easy Anti-Cheat Online Gaming App Conflict
The Easy Anti-Cheat app, used by some online games, may cause the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on devices with Intel’s Alder Lake+ processors and the vPro platform. Microsoft is working with the app developer to resolve this glitch.
Other Blue Screen Issues
Apart from the Easy Anti-Cheat conflict, other situations can lead to BSOD, particularly with certain drivers for Intel Smart Sound Technology on Intel 11th Gen Core processors. This issue also affects PCs with specific Western Digital SSDs and Z890 motherboards sold by MSI, Asus, and other vendors.
Internet Connection Issues
Some users report internet connection problems, where their PCs fail to receive valid IP addresses, rendering them unable to connect to the internet. Updating drivers or resetting network connectivity has not resolved the issue for affected users.
Broken Clipboard History
The clipboard history feature, which stores and syncs copied items across devices, is broken for some users. Despite being flagged during beta testing, the issue persists in the final update.
Network Sharing Failures
Network sharing issues have been reported, where PCs or other devices don’t appear in the network list, preventing file and printer sharing. Setting FDResPub to start manually instead of automatically has helped some users.
Printer Issues with ARM-based Copilot+ PCs
Users with ARM-based Copilot+ PCs have encountered problems setting up or using printers from manufacturers like HP, Canon, and Brother. Microsoft has highlighted the problem in a support article and is working on solutions.
Audio Output Glitch
PCs with Dirac Audio and the cridspapo.dll file have experienced audio issues, where integrated and Bluetooth speakers and headsets stop working. Microsoft has paused the update for affected PCs pending a manufacturer fix.
Outlook and Google Workspace Sync Conflict
Microsoft Outlook may fail to launch if Google Workspace Sync is installed. The issue affects the synchronization of emails, contacts, and other items, and Microsoft advises updating to the latest version of Google Workspace Sync or contacting Google Workspace Support for help.
Conclusion
These are just some of the issues plaguing Microsoft and its users with the Windows 11 2024 update. The number of bugs seems greater than in past annual updates, and the ongoing spread of issues highlights the need for more reliable and stable updates from Microsoft. With Windows 10 support set to expire in October, it is crucial for Microsoft to enhance the dependability of Windows 11 to ensure a smooth transition for all users.
