Microsoft says it has a workaround in place for users experiencing a freezing Windows 10 Anniversary Update. Some users are reporting that the update freezes in the installation process. The company says there is a workaround available while it looks for a more permanent fix. Luckily the problem does not seem to be widespread.
While some users are getting frustrated by the issue, it is not causing long term damage. The update freezes and a device locks up, but ultimately the device comes back to life on a restart.
Acknowledging the problem, Microsoft says it happens under specific Anniversary Update conditions. Via its official support forum, the company says there are certain conditions under which the issue appears to occur:
“Microsoft has received a small number of reports of Windows 10 freezing after installing the Anniversary Update on systems with the operating system stored on a solid-state drive (SSD) and apps and data stored on a separate drive. This issue does not occur when starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode.”
At the moment there is not permanent software solution in place. Microsoft is working on one and an update should come eventually to fix it. In the meantime, the company has provided a workaround to stop the Anniversary Update from freezing. In fact, there are two workarounds in place:
Method 1: Using the Recovery Console
- Restart your PC. When you get to the sign-in screen, hold the Shift key down while you select Power > Restart.
- After your PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Go back to the previous build. If you don’t see this option, try Method 2.
Method 2: Using the Settings app from Safe Mode
- Restart your PC. When you get to the sign-in screen, hold the Shift key down while you select Power > Restart.
- After your PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
- After your PC restarts, you’ll see a list of options. Select 4 or F4 to start your PC in Safe Mode.
- Open the Settings app.
- Select Update & security and then the Recovery tab.
- Under “Go back to an earlier build”, click the Get started button and follow the instructions.
The company says it is still carrying out an investigation, so more information may follow. There will be updates to the official support page post if Microsoft finds anything new about the issue. While investigating, the company will also be working on a more permanent fix that should roll out soon.
