Major Issues in Windows 10 KB5049981 January 2025 Update: DAC, Services, and USB Ports

Issues Related to the Windows 10 KB5049981 Update

The recent Windows 10 **KB5049981 update** has sparked a wave of frustration among users, primarily due to significant technical issues. Notably, many individuals are experiencing problems with **USB Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs)**, which refuse to load properly. Users may encounter the ominous message: “This device cannot start.(Code 10).Insufficient system resources exist to complete the API.” Unfortunately, this issue does not affect everyone uniformly, leading to countless queries and complaints across user forums.

The Portfolio of Problems Introduced by KB5049981

It’s no secret that Windows updates have often acquired a reputation for fixing existing bugs while inadvertently introducing new ones. This trend continues with the KB5049981 update, which many claim has led to increased complications, similarly observed in past updates for both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Recent observations highlighted by Windows Latest indicate that community forums are saturated with user reports regarding malfunctioning DAC devices. After implementing the update, they frequently receive an error code (10) within the Device Manager, rendering their DAC devices useless on their systems.

What is Causing USB DAC Issues?

These DAC devices, which play a vital role in translating digital audio signals to analog sound, become non-functional after the update.**Multiple brands of DACs** reportedly indicate this error, yet work flawlessly on machines devoid of the KB5049981 patch. This has left many users bewildered and searching for prompt fixes.

If you’re experiencing similar issues with your USB DAC, a temporary solution is to roll back the KB5049981 update through your **Settings app**:

Open **Settings** and navigate to **Update & Security**.
Select **View Update History** and then choose **Uninstall Updates** to revert changes.
Restart your PC and check if your DAC functions properly.

System Guard Runtime Monitoring Broker Service Issues

Another headache linked to the KB5049981 update is the failure of the **System Guard Runtime Monitoring Broker Service** to initiate. Despite not affecting overall system functionality, users have reported that this service generates an “Access is denied”error (0x80070005), again diminishing trust in recent updates.

Microsoft has confirmed through its documentation that this service is intentionally hampered in recent releases, being marked for removal in forthcoming updates. Though it may raise concerns, Microsoft has reassured users that this service can safely remain disabled. It’s advisable not to attempt enabling this service until further updates are presented by Microsoft.

Troubleshooting Snipping Tool and Connectivity Crises

Beyond DAC issues, users are reporting trouble originating from the **Snipping Tool**, which fails to function correctly post-update. Further complications extend to USB ports and Wi-Fi connectivity. Some users have experienced complete failure of USB ports, while others report only partial functionality—where power is supplied but data transfer is interrupted.

Lastly, users are encountering the all-too-familiar **blue screens of death** and crashes typically associated with Windows system failures. Curiously, some systems continue to show the same update availability in the **Settings app** despite having installed KB5049981. This inconsistency in updates has many asking how such recurring issues have continued to plague user experiences.

Community Feedback and Ongoing Issues

As more users report their grievances regarding the KB5049981 update, the consensus remains clear: breaking core functionalities such as **audio devices and connectivity** will likely incite significant backlash from the Windows community. Your insight is key—have you faced any unusual challenges since deploying the KB5049981 update?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What issues are being reported after installing the KB5049981 update?

Many users have reported that their USB DAC devices are failing to start, displaying error code (10).Additionally, there are complaints regarding the Snipping Tool’s functionality, problems with USB ports, and connectivity issues with Wi-Fi.

2. How can I resolve the USB DAC problems after the KB5049981 update?

If you’re experiencing USB DAC issues, consider rolling back the KB5049981 update via the Settings app. Go to **Update & Security**, check your **Update History**, and uninstall the problematic update.

3. Is the System Guard Runtime Monitoring Broker Service important?

This service is not crucial for system functionality and can remain disabled without causing issues. Microsoft has also indicated that it will be removed in future updates, so there’s no need for concern if it fails to start.

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