The Great Windows Update Cleanup: Bugs, Fixes, and Apologies
Microsoft has recently been navigating a period filled with numerous Windows update problems, ranging from decades-old annoyances to critical, new functionality breaks.
Consequently, the company has been forced to issue fixes and even public apologies to users across Windows 10 and Windows 11.
The Update Mistake is Fixed
For years, one of the most complained-about bugs has been fixed. This was the infamous problem where choosing “update and shut down” led to a reboot instead of a full power-off.
However, this issue, which was introduced with Windows 10, is now resolved starting with Windows 11 25H2 Build 26200.7019. The root cause was speculated to be a timing conflict in the Windows Servicing Stack.
Windows Update Breaks Localhost for Developers
A much more recent and critical error was introduced by the mandatory October update, KB5066835. Consequently, this update broke the vital localhost functionality, severely impacting web developers. This problem was traced to a kernel-level Windows component, HTTP.sys. Microsoft quickly acknowledged the bug and stated that a permanent fix was being prepared to restore functionality for the millions of affected developers.
Update and Shut Down: Windows update mistake resolved
This major quality-of-life fix is eliminating the frustration for users, especially those with laptops who previously found their devices powered on and battery life drained the next morning. Now, the system will finally shut down as requested, thanks to the fix included in the optional update KB5067036.
New update names confirmed
To simplify the overall update experience, Microsoft is implementing a new titling system for all future Windows updates. This change removes confusing codes and technical jargon, making the updated titles more intuitive. Nevertheless, key identifiers like the KB number will still be included for technical reference.
The Remaining Driver Error
Unfortunately, not every issue has been resolved. Microsoft admits a long-standing Windows 11 driver error, 0x80070103, cannot be fully fixed. This error is triggered when a user attempts to install a driver already present on the PC. Therefore, users are advised to simply ignore the error when it appears.
Microsoft Issues Rare Apology for Firewall Blunder
In a rare move, Microsoft issued an apology for a Windows 11 update, KB5062553, that worsened a Firewall error. The company mistakenly claimed the critical bug had been fixed when, in reality, the update introduced the “false, harmless error” to more users. Microsoft reassured users that the glitch only affects the event log entry and does not harm the actual firewall functionality.
The Media Creation Tool Works Again
After being accidentally broken for nearly three weeks, the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool (MCT) is working again on Windows 10. This tool is vital for users who prefer to perform a clean install or an in-place upgrade. Furthermore, the updated MCT now downloads the latest October 2025 Update and supports Arm64 PCs.
Troubleshooting Windows Upgrade and Installation Errors
Because update problems are common, Microsoft provides extensive troubleshooting steps. These include running the automated Windows Update Troubleshooter and performing checks like clearing the Windows Update Cache and freeing up disk space.
Many errors, like the 0xC1900101 series, are typically caused by driver problems and can be fixed by removing nonessential hardware and non-Microsoft security software. For persistent issues, advanced steps like repairing system files via the DISM command are recommended.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Microsoft’s recent challenges highlight the complexity of maintaining a global operating system. Nevertheless, the company is gradually ironing out these bugs, balancing the urgency of security updates with the need for stability. As a result, many frustrating issues are being resolved, making the overall Windows experience better for the future.
ALSO READ: Photoroom: Best AI App for Photo Editing
