Windows' August update renders reset and recovery functions inoperable
Microsoft's August 2025 security updates have introduced a significant bug that affects the reset and recovery functionality on several Windows versions. The issue impacts Windows 10 (various LTSC versions and 22H2) and Windows 11 versions 22H2 and 23H2, but does not affect Windows 11 24H2 or supported Windows Server versions.
After installing these updates, attempts to use "Reset this PC," "Fix problems using Windows Update," or the RemoteWipe configuration service provider to reset or recover devices may fail, with the process often starting then rolling back silently and leaving the system unrecovered without warning or data loss.
This problem can occur through the "Reset my PC" function, "Fix problems using Windows Update" in the System/Recovery settings, or by running a recovery tool. Microsoft estimated that the issue had been fixed by August 15, and the error should have gone away. However, an out-of-band update was necessary to resolve the issue, which was released on August 19, 2025.
If your system is one of the affected versions and you experience this problem, installing the out-of-band update from Microsoft is essential to restore normal reset and recovery functionality. It's important to note that this issue is separate from the error code problem that Microsoft has been dealing with in recent months.
In addition, Microsoft has been facing criticism for the quality of its updates, with some users likening the process to a game of Russian Roulette. Installing Windows updates has become a risky endeavour, with the potential for unexpected issues to arise. However, it's worth noting that the problematic update has impacted versions including the outgoing Windows 10.
It's also worth mentioning that millions of Windows 10 machines cannot be updated to Windows 11 due to Microsoft's approach to hardware compatibility, but this issue is separate from the error code problem. Microsoft has issued a 60-day warning for the end of servicing for Windows 10 22H2 a few days prior.
In conclusion, Microsoft's August 2025 security updates have caused a significant issue with Windows reset and recovery functionality on several platforms. It's crucial for affected users to install the out-of-band update to restore normal functionality. While the quality of Windows updates has been a topic of concern for many users, it's important to keep in mind that this issue is separate from the error code problem.
