Microsoft Lifts Block on Windows 11 24H2 Update for PCs with USB Scanning Issues
Over the past couple of months, Microsoft has been blocking the delivery of the Windows 11 24H2 update to systems that were incompatible or had been experiencing issues, including crashes caused by faulty device drivers. One of the major problems that led to this block was an issue with USB scanners and multifunction devices like printers and fax machines, which ceased functioning after updating to Windows 11 24H2.
The problem stemmed from the eSCL (extended Simple Copying Language) protocol that certain devices used. After the update, these devices could no longer switch to USB mode and were not recognized by the system. This left users with a host of non-functional scanning and printing features. Microsoft identified these affected devices as USB-connected scanners, multifunction printers, modems, and other eSCL network devices.
With the release of the December 10, 2024, cumulative update (KB5048667), Microsoft has resolved the issue. The safeguard hold, which paused the update for affected systems, has now been lifted. This means that those who were previously unable to update to Windows 11 24H2 will begin seeing the update offered to them in the coming days. If you don’t want to wait, restarting your device may speed up the process.
This resolution is a welcome development as it helps to address a significant issue for users, while also lifting the block that had kept many from receiving the latest update. It’s a positive step for Microsoft as the company tries to close out a challenging year with some good news for Windows 11 users.
