Windows 11 Update Blocks PC Shutdown in 2026
▼ Summary
– Microsoft released an out-of-band update on January 17, 2026, to fix problems caused by the January 2026 Windows security update.
– One identified issue involves connection and authentication failures in remote connection applications.
– This remote connection issue affects multiple Windows platforms, including Windows 11 version 25H2 and Windows 10 version 22H2 ESU.
– A separate issue causes devices with Secure Launch to fail to shut down or hibernate properly.
– This shutdown/hibernation problem specifically affects only Windows 11, version 23H2.
Microsoft has released an urgent software patch to resolve critical problems introduced by its most recent security update for Windows. The company identified significant issues that emerged after users installed the January 2026 security patches, prompting the immediate distribution of an out-of-band update on January 17, 2026. This rapid response aims to mitigate disruptions for users across several Windows versions.
The primary complications involve two distinct areas of system functionality. First, users have reported widespread connection and authentication failures within various remote connection applications. This problem impacts a broad range of platforms, creating hurdles for remote work and IT management. The affected systems include Windows 11, version 25H2; Windows 10, version 22H2 ESU; and Windows Server 2025, among others listed in the official advisory.
A second, more disruptive issue specifically targets devices equipped with a specific security feature. On computers running Windows 11, version 23H2 that have Secure Launch enabled, the system may become completely unable to shut down or enter hibernation mode. This failure prevents users from properly powering off their machines, which can lead to data loss, hardware strain, and significant user frustration. The out-of-band update directly addresses this shutdown bug to restore normal power management operations.
Microsoft advises all users on the impacted platforms to install this latest update as soon as possible to regain full system stability and security. The company typically issues such emergency fixes when a widespread problem is severe enough to require action outside the standard monthly update cycle. Keeping systems updated remains the most effective way to ensure both security and reliable performance.
(Source: The Verge)
