Microsoft has officially confirmed a major bug in its recent Windows 11 24H2 updates that is causing widespread Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) crashes, displaying the stop error code “SECURE_KERNEL_ERROR” (0x18B).
The issue, first reported by Windows Latest in March 2025, has now escalated following the release of the April 2025 Patch Tuesday update, affecting thousands of users globally.
🔧 Key Issues and Fixes
1. Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST) Driver Conflict
- Affected Systems: Devices with Intel 11th Gen Core processors using Intel SST drivers version 10.29.0.5152 or 10.30.0.5152
- Problem: These drivers can cause BSODs during or after the 24H2 update.
- Fix: Update the Intel SST driver to version 10.29.00.5714 or 10.30.00.5714 via Windows Update or your device manufacturer's support page. Avoid manual updates to 24H2 until this is resolved.
2. Western Digital NVMe SSD Compatibility
- Affected Drives: WD Black SN770, SN770M, Blue SN580, SN5000, and certain SanDisk Extreme NVMe drives (mostly 2TB models).
- Problem: Changes in Host Memory Buffer (HMB) allocation in 24H2 can lead to BSODs with errors like “Critical Process Died.
Fix: Update the SSD firmware using the Western Digital Dashboard. Alternatively, disable HMB via the Windows Registry, though this may impact performance.
3. ASUS Laptops and Specific Intel Processors
- Affected Models: ASUS X415KA and X515KA laptops with Intel Celeron N4500 or Pentium Silver N6000 processors.
- Problem: Firmware conflicts leading to BSODs post-update.
- Fix: ASUS is developing a firmware update. In the meantime, users should pause updates or roll back to a previous Windows version.
4. Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) Conflicts
- Affected Systems: Devices with Intel Alder Lake+ processors and vPro technology running outdated EAC drivers.
- Problem: BSODs when launching games that use EAC, such as Fortnite or Call of Duty.
- Fix: Update EAC drivers and associated games. Microsoft has paused the update for systems with older EAC drivers.
⚠️ Microsoft's Response
Microsoft has implemented compatibility holds to prevent the 24H2 update from being offered to affected systems via Windows Update. Users are advised not to manually install the update using the Media Creation Tool or Installation Assistant until these issues are resolved
✅ Recommended Actions
- Check for Updates: Ensure all device drivers and firmware are up to date, especially for audio and storage components.
- Pause Updates: If your system matches any of the affected configurations, pause Windows updates to prevent automatic installation of 24H2.
- Rollback if Necessary: If you've already installed 24H2 and are experiencing issues, consider rolling back to a previous version of Windows.
- Monitor Official Channels: Stay informed through Microsoft's Windows release health dashboard and your device manufacturer's support pages for updates and fixes