Redazione RHC : 5 November 2025 17:41
Microsoft has issued an urgent warning to Windows operating system users regarding a potential issue that, starting with security updates distributed on October 14, 2025, could cause some devices to display the BitLocker recovery screen.
The advisory emphasizes that server editions are not affected , limiting the scope to consumer and enterprise client environments . The issue affects three key client platforms: Windows 11 version 25H2 and 24H2, both linked to the source knowledge base article KB5066835, and Windows 10 version 22H2 in KB5066791.
Microsoft is currently investigating specific client versions of Windows, primarily impacting Intel-based systems that feature Connected Standby. This specific power-saving option allows devices to remain connected during periods of reduced power consumption.
Intel processors with Connected Standby support appear to be particularly vulnerable, as the network persistence inherent in this feature may interfere with boot procedures following updates. The updates, intended to address critical vulnerabilities and improve system stability, inadvertently triggered BitLocker behavior on compatible hardware devices.
| Affected platform | Message ID | Source KB |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 11, version 25H2 | WI1183025 | KB5066835 |
| Windows 11, version 24H2 | WI1183026 | KB5066835 |
| Windows 10, version 22H2 | WI1183027 | KB5066791 |
While the issue does not impact data security, it may disrupt user workflows as they may be required to enter their BitLocker recovery key once upon restart. Affected users may be prompted to perform the recovery during startup or upon restarts following updates, according to Microsoft’s Windows Health Status documentation.
Once the key is provided, the device should resume normal operation without further interruption. This recovery mode is due to interactions between updates and BitLocker’s encryption mechanisms, although Microsoft has not yet specified the exact cause.
Users can refer to Microsoft issue trackers, such as WI1183025 for Windows 11 25H2, WI1183026 for 24H2, and WI1183027 for Windows 10 22H2, through the Windows Release Health portal for the latest status.
Microsoft recommends that affected organizations apply a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) to work around the issue. This mitigation tool, described in detail on the company’s IT Pro blog, requires contacting Microsoft Business Support for enterprise-wide implementation.
Individual users should ensure they have their BitLocker recovery keys, typically stored in Microsoft accounts or printed during setup, on hand to avoid extended downtime.
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