A recent bug in Windows11 updates KB5066835 and KB5065789 is causing significant issues for users relying on Ethernet connections. The updates, affecting builds 24H2 and 25H2, are reportedly deleting critical network files, leading to internet connectivity loss.
Workarounds and Fixes
Microsoft suggests rolling back the operating system as an official fix. However, several community-sourced solutions have emerged. Users can attempt a full network reset by navigating to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings and selecting Network reset. This process reinstalls drivers from the local driver pool after a restart.
Another option is to flush DNS and reset TCP/IP settings. This involves running specific commands in an elevated Command Prompt: netsh int ip reset, netsh winsock reset, ipconfig /flushdns, ipconfig /release, and ipconfig /renew. A restart is necessary after executing these commands.
Registry and Hardware Alternatives
For those comfortable with registry edits, removing WinHttpAutoProxySvc from the DependOnService list in the registry path HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\WcmSvc might restore connectivity. Users should proceed cautiously with this method.
Alternatively, using an external USB-to-Ethernet or USB-to-WiFi adapter can bypass the affected Ethernet drivers temporarily. These solutions may not work universally, and caution is advised, particularly with registry modifications.
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