Unexpected UAC Prompts After Recent Update
Microsoft recently acknowledged that security updates released in August 2025 have caused unexpected User Account Control (UAC) prompts for many users. The issue impacts all supported versions of Windows that received the update, including Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server.
The company has explained that the update introduced a security measure requiring UAC prompts for administrator credentials during specific operations using the Windows Installer (MSI). This enhancement aimed to address a vulnerability, but led to unforeseen consequences for users.
Several scenarios can trigger these UAC prompts. They include running MSI repair commands like msiexec /fu, launching certain Autodesk applications, installing applications configured per user, executing Windows Installer during Active Setup, deploying packages via ConfigMgr that rely on user-specific advertising, and enabling Secure Desktop.
Impact and Interim Solutions
Microsoft has highlighted that when a standard user tries to run an application initiating an MSI repair without a user interface, it can encounter errors—such as Error 1730 while installing Office Professional Plus 2010 as a standard user. Currently, there is no comprehensive fix available.
The tech giant is actively working on an update to enable IT administrators to permit specific applications to perform MSI repair operations without encountering UAC prompts. In the meantime, Microsoft advises a few workarounds. Running the application as an administrator can bypass the issue temporarily. Additionally, using a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) Group Policy can help mitigate the problem on the impacted versions of Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server.
This incident underscores the challenges faced by organizations in implementing security improvements without disrupting user experience. As Microsoft endeavors to provide a resolution, users and IT administrators are urged to apply interim solutions to minimize disruption.
