Microsoft approves Windows 11 24H2 downloads after seven-month wait

Microsoft Lifts Windows 11 24H2 Upgrade Blocks

In a significant development last month, Microsoft lifted a six-month-old block preventing users from upgrading to Windows 11 24H2 due to compatibility issues with desktop wallpaper applications. This safeguarding measure was established under safeguard ID 52754008 and was implemented at the time of the public release of Windows 11 24H2 in early October 2024.

Resolution of Browser-Related Safeguard Hold

In another recent update, Microsoft has also removed a compatibility block triggered by a browser-related issue, identified as safeguard hold ID 49562592. According to the company, this problem has been rectified with a new update to the Safe Exam Browser application.

Safe Exam Browser Update

Microsoft confirmed that the necessary fix is included in the application update, version 3.8 or later, which resolves the issues previously faced by users. This comes as Windows 11 24H2 has begun its final rollout phase, a positive progression noted by the tech giant.

Official Guidance from Microsoft

In their official statement, Microsoft emphasizes the importance of updating the Safe Exam Browser for a smooth upgrade experience:

Resolution: This issue is resolved by installing the latest version of the Safe Exam Browser app (version 3.8 or later).Devices which are encountering this issue will need to install the latest version of the Safe Exam Browser prior to updating to Windows 11, version 24H2.

If your device still encounters this safeguard hold 48 hours after updating to the latest version of the application, please contact Safe Exam Browser Support for additional assistance.

Safe Exam Browser Release Notes

Upon reviewing the release notes for the Safe Exam Browser (SEB), it appears that there are no specific fixes addressing the Windows 11 2024 update; however, they do mention an essential update regarding system requirements:

Starting with release version 3.8.0, Safe Exam Browser for Windows requires a minimum operating system version of Windows 10 version 1803.

Further Assistance and Resources

For those seeking more information about the Windows 11 24H2 SEB issue, you can refer to the official entry on Microsoft’s Windows Health dashboard here. If you continue to experience upgrade blocks, be aware that there could be additional safeguard holds in place, including issues related to system drivers.

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