Windows 11 Shutdown Bug Spreads to Windows 10 PCs

Microsoft's January 2026 security update presented a shutdown issue on Windows 11 PCs, but new reports indicate that the problem extends well beyond the newest OS. Windows 10 users and Microsoft itself say the shutdown bug affects multiple versions of Windows 11's predecessor, causing endless disruptions for enterprise users, even weeks after Microsoft supplied emergency patches.

When the bug first appeared via the Jan. 13 KB5073455 security update, it was limited to Windows 11 version 23H2 Enterprise and IoT editions. But Microsoft later confirmed it affected Windows 11 version 23H2, Windows 10 version 22H2, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019.

When users try to shut down or hibernate their PCs, the systems restart instead. This shutdown issue stemmed from a disconnect between the January security updates and System Guard Secure Launch. This feature checks the firmware's integrity before the system starts up ...