Microsoft has launched an out-of-band patch to tackle major defects emerging from the January 2026 Windows security update, which caused certain Windows 11 systems to fail at shutting down. This quick-release fix addresses the malfunction where impacted Windows 11 machines would reboot rather than turn off or enter hibernation when commanded. It also reinstates remote login capabilities for individuals using Windows 10 and Windows 11 through connection software.
The company noted that the power-down and sleep mode failures struck Windows 11 configurations activated with Secure Launch, a defensive tool that shields hardware from boot-time firmware threats. On the remote access front, Microsoft's Known Issues section points to authentication dialog errors as the cause behind login blocks for distant connections to Windows 10 and 11 setups.
WindowsLatest coverage highlights ongoing complications from the January 2026 security patch, such as empty displays and instability in the traditional Outlook application. In the prior month of October, Microsoft delivered a separate rapid solution for a Windows 11 flaw involving the Windows Recovery Environment. For users delaying the shift to Windows 11, the firm offers a way to prolong Windows 10 support via its Extended Security Updates initiative.