Four Known Bugs in Windows 11 25H2
Microsoft has begun the fall rollout of Windows 11 25H2, the autumn feature update for the OS. However, Windows Latest reports four known bugs that could affect users who install the update or rely on specific workflows after upgrading. The issues touch media playback with DRM, file sharing via SMBv1, the Media Creation Tool on ARM devices, and installation with the Windows Update Standalone Installer (WUSA). If your daily work depends on any of these features, you may want to pause the upgrade until Microsoft provides fixes or guidance.
DRM protected content playback issues
One of the most notable problems reported involves playback of content protected by digital rights management (DRM). After upgrading to 25H2, certain apps and media players may struggle to play DRM-protected files or streams. This can affect films, TV shows, or other media that rely on DRM schemes designed to prevent copying. The issue appears to be a compatibility gap introduced by the update, and while some apps may receive patches from their vendors, there is no universal fix yet from Microsoft. If you rely on DRM content for work or entertainment, consider delaying the upgrade until updates or workarounds are released.
SMBv1 file sharing problems
Another issue concerns network file sharing using the old SMBv1 protocol. Devices and networks that still depend on SMBv1 for sharing files may experience difficulties connecting to shared folders after installing 25H2. While SMBv1 is deprecated due to security risks, many older systems and some industrial or legacy environments still rely on it. Until a patch or guidance is issued, users should assess their network setup and plan for updates that remove reliance on SMBv1 or provide compatible alternatives. This bug can disrupt workflows that depend on quick, reliable cross‑device file access.
Media Creation Tool not working on ARM devices
Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool, used to create USB install media for clean installs or upgrades, has reported compatibility problems on ARM-based PCs with 25H2. Users attempting to run the tool on ARM hardware may encounter errors or the tool failing to start. If you were planning to create install media for an ARM device, you might need to use an alternative method, such as downloading the ISO directly from Microsoft and applying the upgrade offline, or waiting for an updated tool version from Microsoft or hardware partners.
Windows Update Standalone Installer (WUSA) issues
Finally, some users have run into trouble when installing updates via Windows Update Standalone Installer (WUSA). The installer may fail with error messages or stall during the update process. While Windows Update remains the recommended path for most users, WUSA failures can hinder offline or scripted update workflows. Microsoft is expected to provide status updates and patches to address these WUSA-related problems, so plan to monitor official advisories if you rely on standalone installations.
Should you install 25H2 now?
Whether you should install Windows 11 25H2 today depends on your needs and risk tolerance. If your work depends on DRM-protected media, legacy SMBv1 networks, ARM install media creation, or offline update workflows, you may want to wait for fixes or official guidance from Microsoft. For many users, holding off a few weeks while signals of stability emerge can be a prudent approach. Regardless of your decision, back up important data, ensure you have a solid recovery point, and stay informed via official Microsoft updates and reputable technology news outlets.
What to watch for next
Microsoft typically addresses such bugs through cumulative updates, hotfixes, or guidance for affected devices. Keep an eye on the Windows health dashboard, the Windows Insider program announcements, and Windows Latest reports for timely information on when these issues are resolved. If you do upgrade and encounter a problem, reporting it through the official support channels can help accelerate a solution that benefits all users.
