Microsoft Faces VPN Connection Issues After Recent Updates

For Microsoft users encountering VPN connection problems recently, the tech giant’s latest updates may be to blame—but they could also hold the key to a fix. While keeping your operating system up to date is generally advisable, unexpected bugs can occasionally arise. Here’s a summary of the situation and how you can resolve related issues.

Understanding the Impact of Security Update KB5036893

On April 9, 2024, the rollout of security update KB5036893 inadvertently compromised VPN functionality for some Windows 11 users. If your device received this update between April 9 and May 13, you may have experienced difficulties. Users of Windows 10 faced similar VPN disruptions after installing KB5036892.

Not only did the updates interfere with VPN connections, but they also prevented users from updating their profile pictures, returning error codes instead. Additionally, enterprise users reported complications during upgrades from Windows Pro to enterprise subscriptions, receiving Access Denied errors and consequently hampering the upgrade process.

Resolving Microsoft’s Security Update Issues

For approximately a month, users were left without a clear solution for these frustrating update errors. Thankfully, on May 14, Microsoft introduced security update KB5037771 for Windows 11, which effectively addressed the VPN issues. Windows 10 users received a similar remedy through update KB5037768.

Moreover, the profile picture error was resolved via update KB5037853, while issues affecting enterprise users remain unresolved as of this writing.

Best Practices When Updates Trigger Issues

If you find yourself facing issues following a recent update, it is generally advisable to download the latest security updates, which often contain essential fixes. However, it can be ironic that these updates can also bring about their own set of problems. Here are some strategies to consider when encountering update-related issues:

Recheck for Updates

Although it might sound counterintuitive, running Windows Update again is a valid step that Microsoft advocates. There could be additional patches available that might address your concerns. To check for updates:

1. Open the Start menu.
2. Select Settings.
3. Navigate to Update & Security.
4. Click on Windows Update.
5. Hit Check for Updates.
6. Download and install any available updates.

Utilize the Windows Troubleshooter

If you receive an error code while trying to install updates, utilizing the troubleshooter may help resolve the issue. Here’s how to do it for different versions:

For Windows 10:

1. Open the Start menu.
2. Go to Settings.
3. Select Update & Security.
4. Click on Troubleshoot.
5. Expand Additional troubleshooters.
6. Choose Windows Update.
7. Run the troubleshooter and restart your PC after completion.

For Windows 11:

1. Open the Start menu.
2. Navigate to Settings.
3. Select System.
4. Click on Troubleshoot.
5. Go to Other troubleshooters.
6. Under “Most Frequent,” select Windows Update.
7. Run the troubleshooter and restart your PC afterwards.

Consider Removing an Installed Update

While Microsoft generally advises against removing installed updates, it may be necessary in some cases where the update is causing ongoing problems. Here’s how to uninstall an update:

1. Open the Start menu.
2. Go to Settings.
3. Select Windows Update.
4. Click on Update History.
5. Choose Uninstall Updates.
6. Identify the problematic update and click on Uninstall.

Explore Additional Troubleshooting Techniques

Here are more avenues to explore:

• Restore your PC or device to a previous backup before the update was applied.
• Check for official communications from Microsoft for guidance or next steps.
• Monitor for any upcoming patches released by Microsoft.

Navigating Post-Update Errors

Errors stemming from software updates are unfortunately commonplace across all platforms. Regardless of the device or operating system, bugs are a reality, and they range from trivial to serious concerns. However, these issues are usually addressed quickly. Although it may be tempting to avoid updates altogether, staying current with security and bug fixes is the best practice to safeguard against potential vulnerabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Has Microsoft resolved the VPN connection issue?

Yes, Microsoft acknowledged the issue with the April 2024 security update and has issued a new update to remediate it.

What are the best steps to fix VPN connection problems?

Start with basic checks, such as verifying your internet connection and firewall settings. If the issue lies with the VPN itself, check the server status. Depending on your findings, you may need to update, restart, or reinstall your VPN application.

What does it mean when a VPN connection fails?

A VPN failure typically indicates a network connection issue, often when the network is overloaded or down. If you encounter error 800, verify your network connection.