Windows 11 update finally installs but causes crashes instead

Not again!

Windows 11 update is, once again, broken and will cause you a headache of issues.
Image by Tadas Sar.

Dear readers, we do love a good bit. Committing to a joke is essential in comedy because, without conviction, it feels half-hearted and unwanted. However, sometimes a scene can go on too long. You’ll find yourself growing tired of it and just wanting it to end. That’s how we feel about this Windows 11 update, which is finally working but is now causing other troubles.

Just a handful of days ago, we wrote about a Windows 10 update that just wouldn’t actually update. It was morbidly funny, given it was designed to help make patches update in the first place. This time around, it’s a Windows 11 update that’s similarly not going well. Windows update KB5035853 fully launched on March 13, and it installs just fine. You’ll just wish it hadn’t.

For many users, the update causes crashes, sending you to a blue screen of death (BSOD). It’s a bit like the Shadow Realm but for PCs. The reason is unclear beyond a vague “thread stuck in device driver” error code, which has nothing to do with rogue bits of clothing. As reported by WindowsLatest, the issue seems to be fairly widespread. Lenovo owners with AMD hardware seem to pipe up a lot more frequently, but it’s not exclusive to the brand. Those fortunate enough to sidestep BSODs instead encounter constant glitches, stuttering, and more.

Sadly, there’s no official fix. If you’re suffering, your best bet is to uninstall it the next time you manage to actually boot. It’s worth attempting a safe boot to see if that gets you in. Head on over to your settings, select Windows Update, and then choose to uninstall Windows update KB5035853. It’s not a perfect solution, of course, but it’s better than relegating your PC to an expensive paperweight.

A good rule of thumb is to keep an eye on any news regarding Windows 11 updates before installing them. Microsoft hasn’t shipped them in the best states lately, and your life is far easier without the headache. Hopefully, the brand will get its quality control back on track before the next big patch. We won’t hold our breath, though.