Microsoft's January 2026 security update may cause Windows 11 PCs with Secure Launch to restart instead of shutting down or entering hibernation. This affects devices using Windows 11, version 23H2, with Secure Launch—a feature enhancing system protection.
Immediate Workarounds
Microsoft advises impacted users to manually shut down their PCs by running the command: shutdown /s /t 0 in Command Prompt. Currently, no method exists to enter hibernation manually.
- Users should save work to prevent data loss if power issues occur.
- An out-of-band update is expected to fix this issue.
Wider Update Impact
The security update addressed critical vulnerabilities, including zero-days, alongside Windows 10 extended support features. However, it has caused additional complications.
Further, users have reported credential prompt failures in Remote Desktop connections on Windows client devices, affecting Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365. Microsoft suggests using the Remote Desktop client or the Windows App Web Client for uninterrupted service.
