Microsoft has recently acknowledged that the October 2024 Windows security updates have led to SSH connection failures on some Windows 11 devices, specifically those running versions 22H2 and 23H2. This issue predominantly impacts enterprise, IoT, and education customers, with reports indicating that the OpenSSH service fails to start post-update.
Microsoft notes that only a “limited number” of systems are affected, though it is currently investigating whether similar problems could extend to users on Windows 11 Home and Pro editions. The failure of the OpenSSH service, compounded by a lack of detailed error logs, leaves affected users without a clear indication of the cause or a straightforward way to resolve it.
To address this issue temporarily, Microsoft has recommended a manual workaround involving adjustments to directory permissions. Specifically, administrators can update Access Control List (ACL) permissions on “C:\ProgramData\ssh” and “C:\ProgramData\ssh\logs” folders. Using PowerShell as an administrator, users can modify permissions to grant SYSTEM and Administrators full control over these folders, while authenticated users receive read-only access.
Microsoft has shared a PowerShell script to streamline this process, enabling users to apply these ACL changes and restore SSH functionality until an official fix is released.
Microsoft Issues Workaround for Windows 11 SSH Failures Following October Security Update, Promises Future Fixes
The company is actively developing a permanent resolution for this SSH issue, which will be rolled out through a future Windows update. Users affected by the problem are advised to rely on the ACL workaround for now. Microsoft has committed to providing further updates as it works toward a solution, ensuring that enterprise and other impacted customers will regain stable SSH connectivity as soon as possible.
In addition to the SSH connection issue, Microsoft also recently announced that it resolved fingerprint sensor freezing problems on Windows 11 24H2 devices. These issues had led to devices freezing upon the lock, impacting users’ ability to regain access smoothly.
With the October Patch Tuesday update, Microsoft has removed a safeguard hold that had been in place to block upgrades to Windows 11 24H2 for affected systems, allowing these devices to proceed with the latest update. A quick device restart should expedite the update if users have not already received it.
Microsoft’s recent patch efforts have addressed other lingering issues from earlier updates. For example, a bug in the September preview cumulative update prevented some apps from launching on Windows 10 22H2 devices under non-admin accounts.
Additionally, Microsoft resolved a Remote Desktop disruption on Windows servers caused by the July security updates, which had impacted Remote Desktop sessions in enterprise environments. These cumulative patches demonstrate Microsoft’s continued commitment to resolving user-reported issues and maintaining stability across its operating systems.
