Microsoft Fixes Windows Autopatch Bug That Installed Restricted Drivers
Microsoft has fixed a Windows Autopatch bug that caused driver updates restricted by administrative policies to be deployed on some EU devices running Windows 11, leading to unexpected reboots and system failures.
Microsoft has fixed a Windows Autopatch bug that caused driver updates restricted by administrative policies to be deployed on some Autopatch-managed Windows devices in the European Union. The issue, first spotted by Microsoft MVP Susan Bradley, affected a limited number of devices running Windows 11 25H2, 24H2, and 23H2.
The bug caused recommended driver updates to install without user approval, even when IT admins had configured policies requiring manual approval. Affected systems experienced unexpected behavior, including reboots and, in some cases, system failures, depending on the installed drivers.
Microsoft addressed the issue with a service-side fix, meaning customers do not need to take any action. The company stated: "A limited subset of devices managed by Windows Autopatch in the European Union (EU) region might have received unexpected driver updates from Windows Update, despite administrative policies configured to restrict driver deployment. This issue has been fixed through a service-side fix. No client-side updates or further action are required from customers."
This incident follows a similar issue last month where Windows Server 2019 and 2022 systems were unexpectedly upgraded to Windows Server 2025. Microsoft first acknowledged that problem in September 2024 after widespread reports from admins.
Windows Autopatch is a cloud-based service that automates patch management for Windows and Microsoft 365 updates. While designed to streamline updates, this bug highlights the risks of automated patching when policies are not properly enforced.
Microsoft has not disclosed the root cause of the bug or whether it was related to a specific configuration change. The company recommends that IT administrators review their driver deployment policies to ensure they are correctly applied.
This fix comes as Microsoft continues to improve its patch management services. On Tuesday, the company also confirmed issues with Office installations on Windows 365 devices due to a recent service update.
Organizations using Windows Autopatch in the EU should verify that their devices are no longer receiving unauthorized driver updates. Microsoft assures that the fix is comprehensive and requires no further action.