Company Claims No Connection Between August Update and Hard Drive Issues

Microsoft has issued a statement denying any connection between its recent Windows update and widespread reports of solid-state drive (SSD) failures. The company had initially acknowledged the issue, citing user reports of failure and data corruption affecting SSDs and hard disk drives (HDDs). However, after conducting a thorough investigation, Microsoft claims to have found no link between the August 2025 KB5063878 security update and the reported issues.

According to Microsoft, the company was unable to reproduce the issue on up-to-date systems and has begun collecting user reports with additional details from those affected. Microsoft has also worked with storage device partners to reproduce the issue, but has found no increase in disk failures or file corruption after installing the Windows 11 24H2 security update.

The issue was first reported by Japanese users who experienced SSD issues during heavy write operations, such as writing large files or many files at once, on devices with the Windows 11 24H2 security update installed. Others have also encountered the issue on systems with various hard drive models, including Corsair Force MP600, Maxio SSD, SanDisk Extreme Pro, Kioxia Exceria Plus G4, and Kioxia M.2.

While some affected users reported that their drives were revived after restarting their computer, others remained inaccessible even after a system reboot. The issue has sparked concerns among users, with many advising against downloading, copying, or writing large files on drives that are over 60% full.

Microsoft has assured users that it will continue to monitor feedback after the release of every Windows update and will investigate any future reports. The company’s statement has been met with skepticism by some users, who are urging Microsoft to take further action to address the issue.

In related news, a report by Picus Blue has revealed a significant increase in password cracking, with nearly 46% of environments experiencing password breaches, nearly doubling from 25% last year. The report highlights the importance of robust security measures and password protection.

Microsoft’s Response to the Controversy

Microsoft has stated that it takes all user reports of issues seriously and is committed to providing safe and reliable software. The company has also emphasized that it has not found any evidence of a link between the August update and the reported SSD failures.

“We understand the disruption this may have caused and promptly engaged industry stakeholders,” said a spokesperson for NAND controller maker Phison. “At this time, the controllers that may have been affected are under review and we are working with partners.”

Recommendations for Users

In light of the controversy, Microsoft has advised users to exercise caution when using their SSDs. The company recommends avoiding downloading, copying, or writing large files on drives that are over 60% full. Users are also advised to regularly back up their data and to use a reliable antivirus program to protect against malware.

Related Issues and Updates

The controversy surrounding the Windows update has also highlighted several related issues and updates. For example, Microsoft has released a new update (KB5063879) that addresses a known issue with the Windows 11 24H2 security update. Additionally, the company has announced plans to release a new version of the Windows Update service that will provide more detailed information about the updates being installed.

What’s Next?

The controversy surrounding the Windows update is ongoing, and Microsoft has promised to continue monitoring feedback and investigating any future reports. Users are advised to stay informed about the latest developments and to exercise caution when using their SSDs.

Timeline of Events

August 2025: Microsoft releases the Windows 11 24H2 security update, which is later linked to reports of SSD failures.

August 2025: Japanese users report SSD issues during heavy write operations.

August 2025: Microsoft acknowledges the issue and begins collecting user reports.

August 2025: Microsoft conducts a thorough investigation and finds no link between the August update and the reported SSD failures.

August 2025: Microsoft releases a new update (KB5063879) that addresses a known issue with the Windows 11 24H2 security update.

August 2025: Microsoft announces plans to release a new version of the Windows Update service that will provide more detailed information about the updates being installed.