forbes.com
Microsoft Windows Update Issues: Ignore Error Messages, Says Microsoft
Microsoft's April 2025 Windows updates created unexpected issues: an empty "inetpub" folder linked to security patch CVE-2025-21204, and error 0x80070643 during WinRE update installation, which usually resolves after a restart. Microsoft advises users to ignore these issues.
- What are the immediate consequences of the recent Microsoft Windows updates, and how significant are they for average users?
- Recent Microsoft Windows updates have caused unexpected issues, including the appearance of an empty "inetpub" folder and error code 0x80070643 during WinRE update installation. Microsoft advises users to ignore these issues; the "inetpub" folder is related to a security patch, and the error typically resolves after a restart.
- What are the underlying causes of the "inetpub" folder appearance and error code 0x80070643, and how do they relate to Microsoft's update strategy?
- These seemingly problematic updates highlight a tension between automatic patching and user experience. While the updates aim to improve security (CVE-2025-21204) and system functionality, the confusing error messages and unexpected folder creations disrupt workflow and create unnecessary user anxiety. The root cause of the WinRE error relates to partition size but impacts users with ample storage, indicating a broader software issue.
- What are the long-term implications of these update issues, considering the upcoming end-of-support date for Windows 10 and user trust in Microsoft's software?
- The persistence of these issues underscores the complexity of software updates and their potential to introduce unforeseen problems. Microsoft's recommendation to ignore the errors is a pragmatic, albeit unsatisfactory, solution in the short term. However, this highlights a need for improved communication and more robust error handling in future updates. The October 14, 2025, end-of-support date for Windows 10 adds urgency to the need for users to upgrade and for Microsoft to address these kinds of issues effectively.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article's framing consistently emphasizes the negative aspects of Microsoft's April updates, highlighting user problems and Microsoft's "do nothing" warnings. The headline itself, while factually correct, could be seen as framing the situation negatively. The use of phrases such as "mysterious folders," "dire warnings," and "erroneous error" contributes to a negative narrative. This emphasis could be seen as creating an overwhelmingly negative impression of the updates, potentially causing unnecessary anxiety among readers.
Language Bias
The article uses language that leans toward negativity, employing words and phrases like "mysterious folders," "dire warnings," "erroneous error," and describing the situation as causing as many problems as they've resolved. These choices create a more negative tone than a neutral report would. More neutral alternatives could include phrases such as "unexpected folders," "warning messages," "update issue", and "the updates have encountered difficulties".
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on user-reported problems with Microsoft's April updates, but it omits any discussion of the potential benefits or successful implementations of those updates. This creates a skewed perspective, potentially leading readers to believe the updates were universally problematic. Furthermore, the article does not mention the overall number of users affected, whether the issues are widespread or isolated incidents, or if Microsoft has addressed the underlying causes of the problems. The lack of this context limits the reader's ability to form a complete and nuanced understanding of the situation.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by framing the situation as only having two possible user responses: "do nothing" or attempt to fix the problem (which is deemed impossible). This oversimplifies the user's options and doesn't consider other approaches like seeking help from Microsoft's support channels or exploring alternative solutions. The user is not given any more complex solutions.