Windows 11 Update Problems You Should Know About (And How to Handle Them)


By Kim Fourteen| Techwise PH

Posted: July 28, 2025

Windows 11 may look sleek and modern, but many users—especially those on the Pro and Home editions—are reporting frustrating update issues. Whether you're managing your own PC or supporting clients as a tech, it's important to stay updated (ironically) on what's going wrong with Microsoft’s update system.

Here are the most common Windows 11 update problems we’re seeing lately—and what you can do about them.


Endless Update Loops

One of the biggest headaches in recent months is the update loop problem. You click “Update and Restart,” and then... nothing. The update installs, then rolls back. Or worse, it installs every time you reboot, over and over again.

Why it happens:

  • Corrupted update files

  • Driver conflicts (especially on older hardware)

  • Conflicting third-party software (like antivirus)

Fix suggestions:

  • Run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

  • Delete files in C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download

  • Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter

  • Reinstall the update manually from Microsoft Catalog


Cumulative Updates That Slow Down Your PC

Cumulative updates are supposed to bring improvements, but sometimes they do the opposite. Recent patches have been linked to:

  • Lag in File Explorer

  • Increased CPU usage

  • Sluggish boot times

Notable examples:

  • KB5039302: Caused noticeable system lag on mid-range Ryzen laptops

  • KB5037894: Some users report broken search and unresponsive taskbar

What to do:

  • Roll back the update if the problem started after installation (Settings > Windows Update > Update History)

  • Delay non-critical updates for 1–2 weeks if you’re not in a rush


Features Quietly Removed (Without Warning)

Microsoft has also been silently phasing out features, which has upset power users and professionals.

Removed or hidden features recently:

  • Timeline View: Gone

  • Tablet Mode settings: Simplified to the point of being useless

  • Nearby Sharing and Quick Settings: Replaced or buried deeper in menus

It’s frustrating when tools you've relied on disappear after an update, especially without any heads-up from Microsoft.

Pro Tip: Some features can still be accessed using Group Policy Editor or registry tweaks—but that’s not ideal for average users.


Final Thoughts

Windows 11 has promise—but it’s clear that Microsoft is using live users as testers, especially those who don’t defer updates. If you're managing multiple machines (like in a home office, tech shop, or client network), take control of update settings before they take control of you.


Have you run into problems after a recent Windows 11 update? Let us know in the comments, or contact Techwise PH for personalized help.


Techwise PH — Practical Tech Solutions. No Fluff, Just Fixes.

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