forbes.com
Microsoft's April Windows Updates Cause Widespread Errors
Microsoft's April 2025 Windows updates caused multiple problems: a mysterious "inetpub" folder, error 0x80070643 blocking WinRE updates, and a blue screen of death (BSOD) error 0x18B on Windows 11 (updates KB5055523, KB5053656, KB5053598); Microsoft advises ignoring error messages and not deleting the folder, while offering Known Issue Rollback (KIR) for BSOD.
- What are the key problems caused by Microsoft's recent Windows updates, and what immediate actions are recommended for affected users?
- Microsoft's April 2025 Windows updates have caused widespread issues, including the appearance of a mysterious "inetpub" folder and error 0x80070643, preventing some users from installing the WinRE update. A blue screen of death (BSOD) with error code 0x18B, indicating a SECURE_KERNEL_ERROR, is also affecting Windows 11 users after installing updates KB5055523, KB5053656, and KB5053598.
- What are the root causes of the errors related to the "inetpub" folder and the WinRE update failure, and how do they connect to broader issues with Microsoft's update process?
- These problems stem from three specific Windows updates released in March and April 2025. Microsoft advises users to ignore error messages 0x80070643 and not delete the "inetpub" folder, as these are linked to security patches. The BSOD issue, affecting several Windows 11 updates, can be mitigated using Known Issue Rollback (KIR), though it may take up to 24 hours to resolve automatically.
- What are the potential long-term implications of these widespread update issues for Microsoft's reputation and user trust, and what steps should Microsoft take to prevent similar problems in the future?
- The cumulative effect of these issues highlights a significant quality control problem in Microsoft's recent update releases. The need for Microsoft to instruct users to ignore error messages underscores the severity of the situation and points to a potential need for more rigorous testing and quality assurance processes before future releases. The long resolution times for automatic fixes also raise usability concerns.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames Microsoft's actions and the situation negatively, emphasizing the problems caused by the updates and highlighting user frustration. Headlines and the opening paragraphs emphasize the negative aspects, creating a narrative focused on failures rather than the overall success or intended functionality of the updates. The choice to start with the "blue screen of death" and then discuss seemingly less serious issues influences the narrative.
Language Bias
The article uses loaded language such as "dire warnings," "mysterious folders," and "error pushes users to redo an update." These phrases evoke negative emotions and contribute to a generally critical tone. More neutral alternatives could include "unexpected warnings," "unfamiliar folders," and "update prompts users to retry." The repeated use of "Microsoft is warning users they must do nothing" also leans towards a negative interpretation.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on user-reported problems with Microsoft's April 2025 updates, detailing specific error messages and the appearance of unexpected folders. However, it omits any discussion of the underlying causes of these issues from Microsoft's perspective or any potential benefits of the updates. While acknowledging space constraints is valid, the lack of context from Microsoft's perspective limits the reader's ability to form a fully informed opinion. The article also omits mentioning any successful deployments of the updates, focusing only on negative experiences.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by repeatedly framing the user's response as either 'do nothing' or face potentially serious issues. It doesn't explore alternative solutions or acknowledge the possibility of individual variations in experience. The focus on 'do nothing' advice oversimplifies the complexity of troubleshooting and the potential for users to take other steps to resolve issues.