Microsoft blocks update due to issues, BSOD and screen freezes

Microsoft has paused the rollout of its latest Windows 11 semi-annual update due to a series of issues. compatibility issues causing crashes, freezes or affecting performance.

The pause was implemented for a range of devices due to compatibility issues while Microsoft engineers work out solutions.

In particular, two affected Asus laptop models suffer from the famous “blue screen of death”: the X415KA and the X515KA. The rollout of these two devices will continue as soon as Asus releases a firmware update.

According to BleepingComputerthe update also affects Easy Anti-Cheat software used in a number of popular games, including Ancient Ring, Fortnite, Elite Sniper 5, Rust, Fall Guys And Vermintid.

This particular update issue affects PCs and laptops using 12^th generation of Intel Alder Lake+ processors, running outdated Easy Anti-Cheat drivers.

The update also affects one game, Asphalt 8 (airborne)a free download via the Windows Store, due to a bug that causes the game to crash. Many users may not even know that this game is installed, making the update unavailable.

Older versions of Safe Exam Browser, widely used by educational institutions and businesses to hold internal exams without users sneakily searching for answers, are also blocked.

Other issues include unresponsive fingerprint sensors, faulty wallpaper customization apps, and BSODs due to compatibility issues between Windows 11 and Intel Smart Sound Technology without the latest drivers.

Critics say the various problems reported by users reflect a lack of thorough testing on Microsoft’s part before releasing updates, in the hopes that users will report problems as they arise.

With general support for Windows 10 ending in a year – October 14, 2025 – Microsoft will need to improve its testing before letting Windows 11 be unleashed on consumers and businesses around the world.