Microsoft‘s August 2025 security update has inadvertently crippled the “Reset this PC” and other recovery tools across several Windows versions—including Windows 10 (up through 22H2) and Windows 11 (versions 22H2 and 23H2)—causing reset and recovery operations to fail outright. The issue even affects remote management via RemoteWipe CSP. Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and is rolling out out-of-band emergency patches to restore functionality. Meanwhile, Windows 11 version 24H2 and Windows Server remain unaffected, though that’s little comfort to users on older systems.
Sources: The Register, Windows Latest, Bleeping Computer
Key Takeaways
– The security updates (KB 5063875 for Windows 11 22H2/23H2 and KB 5063709 for Windows 10 22H2 and various LTSC editions) have broken key recovery features like “Reset this PC,” cloud recovery, and RemoteWipe CSP.
– Microsoft has confirmed the widespread failure and is issuing emergency (out-of-band) updates to fix it before the next regular Patch Tuesday.
– Not affected: Windows 11 version 24H2 and Windows Server. However, many users on older systems remain stuck without a simple workaround.
In-Depth
In a move that underscores the fragility of tightly scripted patch releases, Microsoft’s August 2025 security update has managed to derail the very tools meant to fix Windows when things go south.
Users on Windows 10 (22H2 and LTSC editions) and Windows 11 (22H2 and 23H2) have reported that hitting “Reset this PC” or opting into cloud-based recovery simply fails—often rolling back before completing any meaningful work. Even enterprise operators relying on RemoteWipe for wiping or repurposing devices are seeing failures, which is a clear signal that this is more than an edge-case bug.
Fortunately, Microsoft hasn’t ignored the problem: emergency, out-of-band patches are already in flight to put the recovery tools back on life support. Meanwhile, Windows 11 version 24H2 and Windows Server platforms are still unscathed, offering a beacon of stability in otherwise rocky waters.
The misstep serves as a reminder that pushing updates without exhaustive testing can backfire, especially when many aging systems are still in service. If you’re affected, hold tight—help is apparently coming sooner than the usual next Patch Tuesday.