Microsoft has identified an issue with the 22H2 update. One more. This time, it’s the biometric authentication that may malfunction. But, the solution is coming.
Installing the big Windows 11 update called 22H2 on computer workstations sometimes leads to unwanted side effects. Latest problem reported by Microsoft in October 2022? The deployment of the 22H2 update may interfere with the operation of Windows Hello, the authentication system that uses biometrics.
With Windows Hello, it is not necessary to type a password to access its session on Windows. This mechanism is based on the analysis of a fingerprint or face to validate access. Microsoft introduces Hello as a way safer to take advantage of their Windows devices. Windows Hello can also be configured with a PIN code.
However, Microsoft has found that Windows Hello – offered on Windows 10 and 11 – may become inoperative with this update. The good news is that this bug is not blocking: in the event of biometric authentication failure, it is possible to connect to your session by entering the classic password associated with the account.
To avoid the problem, Microsoft advises not to force the manual update of the 22H2 update and to wait until it is offered through the usual distribution channel, namely Windows Update. To further reduce the risk, Microsoft added that it has “ applied a compatibility restriction to exclude Windows Hello devices from machines authorized to have the patch. This restriction will then be lifted.
In addition to the workaround proposed by Microsoft, consisting of using the classic session password, the American publisher points out that a fix is on the way (KB5017389). This can be recovered separately. Otherwise, it will be offered during the October cumulative update. Once the system is patched, the restriction may cease.
The bugs identified with Windows 11 22H2
Since September, Microsoft has identified some malfunctions resulting from the installation of Windows 11 22H2. Six main concerns have been identified, in addition to that affecting Windows Hello:
- Some installed printers may only allow default settings (disabling certain features such as color, double-sided printing or higher resolutions);
- Windows 11 configuration may be only partial, not complete or reboot;
- Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST) and Windows 11 drivers have compatibility issues and may cause a “blue screen of death”;
- Installation of security update for Secure Boot DBX may fail and error 0x800f0922 may appear;
- Copying files/shortcuts using some preferences on Windows 11 may not work as expected.
According to the incident tracking dashboard, only the issue with Windows 11 is in the process of being resolved. Two other annoyances regarding printers and SST drivers are mitigated, but not yet fully fixed. The other three difficulties are under review. It cannot be ruled out that other bugs will appear as patch 22H2 is deployed.
