Microsoft has announced that the October 2025 security updates may trigger BitLocker recovery screens on specific Intel-based Windows systems. This issue affects Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, as well as Windows 10 version 22H2.
Root Cause and Affected Systems
The unexpected BitLocker recovery prompts occur in systems supporting Connected Standby after the installation of updates released on or after 2025-10-14. Technical analysis indicates that interactions between the new patches and this power management feature are responsible.
- Affected OS versions: Windows 11 24H2, 25H2; Windows 10 22H2.
- Key component: Intel-based devices with Connected Standby feature.
- First occurrence reported post-update on 2025-10-14.
- Behavior: Recovery key prompt at boot, resolves after restart.
- Server editions remain unaffected by this issue.
Resolution Plan and User Guidance
In response, Microsoft initiated a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) to address this on client systems. Organizations are encouraged to contact Microsoft Support for Business to apply this fix, whereas personal users should keep an eye on the Windows Release Health dashboard for further updates. Users are advised to ensure their BitLocker recovery keys are readily available.
Microsoft continues to investigate the problem and recommends following their guidance closely as developments unfold.
