Can’t Log In After a Windows Update? Microsoft Investigates Widespread Issue
Few things are more disruptive than turning on your computer only to find you can’t log in, especially after a routine system update. If you’ve recently been stuck on the sign-in screen, you are not alone. A recent Windows update is causing significant login and authentication problems for a growing number of users, and Microsoft has officially launched an investigation into the matter.
This issue can be incredibly frustrating, effectively locking you out of your own machine. Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s happening, who is affected, and the actionable steps you can take right now to regain access to your computer.
Understanding the Core Problem: The Login Loop
Users impacted by this faulty update describe several disruptive symptoms. The most common complaint is being stuck in a login loop, where entering the correct password or PIN simply returns you to the login screen without an error message. Other reported issues include:
- Receiving messages about incorrect credentials, even when they are correct.
- Problems signing into Microsoft services like Teams, Outlook, and OneDrive.
- User profile errors that prevent the desktop from loading properly.
These problems appear to stem from changes made in a recent security or cumulative update, affecting how Windows authenticates user credentials both locally and with online Microsoft accounts.
Which Windows Versions Are Affected?
While investigations are ongoing, the login issues appear to be most prevalent on systems running the latest versions of Windows 11 and certain builds of Windows 10. If you recently installed a “Patch Tuesday” or cumulative update and immediately began experiencing sign-in trouble, the update is the likely culprit.
Microsoft has acknowledged the reports on its official Windows health dashboard and is actively working to identify the root cause and develop a patch. However, waiting for an official fix may not be an option if you need immediate access to your files and applications.
How to Fix Windows Login Problems and Regain Access
If you are locked out of your PC, you can take immediate steps to resolve the issue by removing the problematic update. This requires booting into the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
Step 1: Access the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)
Since you can’t log in normally, you’ll need to trigger the recovery mode from the sign-in screen.
- On the Windows login screen, click the Power icon in the bottom-right corner.
- Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard.
- While still holding the Shift key, click Restart.
Your computer will reboot and display a blue screen with several options. You are now in the Windows Recovery Environment.
Step 2: Uninstall the Problematic Update
This is the most direct way to fix the login issue.
- From the “Choose an option” screen, select “Troubleshoot”.
- Next, click on “Advanced options”.
- In the Advanced options menu, select “Uninstall Updates”.
- You will be given two choices. The issue is most likely caused by the latest quality update, so click “Uninstall latest quality update”.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm and begin the uninstallation process. Your computer will remove the update and restart.
After the restart, you should be able to log into Windows normally.
Step 3: Use System Restore (Alternative Method)
If uninstalling the update doesn’t work, or if you prefer a different approach, you can use System Restore to revert your computer to a state before the update was installed.
- Follow the steps above to enter the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
- Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options.
- Select “System Restore”.
- Choose a restore point dated before the problematic update was installed and proceed with the restoration.
Protecting Your System Moving Forward
Once you have regained access, it’s wise to take preventive measures until Microsoft releases a stable, patched version of the update.
- Pause Windows Updates: To prevent the same faulty update from reinstalling itself, you should temporarily pause automatic updates. Go to Settings > Windows Update and select “Pause updates for 1 week” or longer. This will give Microsoft time to issue a permanent fix.
- Back Up Your Data: This incident is a critical reminder of the importance of regular backups. Ensure your important files are saved to an external drive or a cloud storage service to protect against data loss from future software issues.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the official Windows health dashboard for news about a permanent solution. Once Microsoft confirms the issue is resolved in a new update, you can safely resume automatic updates.
Source: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/microsoft-recent-windows-updates-cause-login-issues-on-pcs-sharing-security-ids/
