Windows 11 24H2 Update: BSOD Woes for Western Digital SSD Users

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Ah, the joys of a new Windows update! If you’re like most tech enthusiasts, the rollout of Windows 11's version 24H2 came with high hopes for enhanced performance and shiny new features. However, for some users—especially those sporting Western Digital NVMe SSDs—this update feels more like a one-way ticket to Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) city. Buckle up as we dive into the details and explore what you can do about it.

The Update and Its Fallout​

Microsoft's much-anticipated Windows 11 24H2 update rolled out earlier this month, bringing along a slew of features centered around artificial intelligence and performance enhancements. Unfortunately, it seems this update also came bundled with a side order of gremlins, particularly for owners of Western Digital's Black SN770 and Blue SN580 SSDs. Reports have flooded in from users experiencing significant compatibility and stability issues, primarily BSODs, making their computing experience feel like navigating a minefield.

Why the BSODs?​

It primarily comes down to the way these SSDs handle memory allocation. Western Digital drives rely on a feature called Host Memory Buffer (HMB) which utilizes system RAM as a kind of cache. Traditionally, these SSDs allocate 64MB of the host’s RAM; however, with the new update, Windows 24H2 has seemingly ramped up that allocation to 200MB. This overzealous allocation has led to erratic behavior during I/O operations, resulting in continuous BSOD loops.

Rolling Back May Bring Relief​

If you’ve found yourself caught in this turbulent storm of crashes, a temporary solution may be to roll back to the previous version, 23H2. Users report that this resolves the instability problems, essentially giving them back a working system—though you might miss out on those shiny new features temporarily.

A Possible Fix—Registry Hack​

For the brave souls unwilling to part with the new features, there’s hope. A registry hack can limit the HMB allocation back to its typical 64MB or even disable it entirely. While this may impact performance during intense file transfers, many users have found it helps restore a semblance of stability to Windows 11 24H2 after a simple reboot.

Note: Proceed with caution! Modifying the Windows Registry can be risky, and it’s always wise to back up your data first.

Microsoft’s Testing Process Under Scrutiny​

This isn't the first time Microsoft has faced scrutiny over software quality. With the advent of their Windows Insider program, many users have voiced frustrations over how they've been turned into unwitting beta testers. While some updates genuinely boost performance—as seen with improvements to file copying speeds—it also leads to more bugs and instability, reminiscent of a high-stakes game of tech roulette.

Why Does This Happen?​

Windows updates should ideally enhance software experience rather than diminish it. However, the complexities of hardware interactions—in this case, the combination of Windows 11's coding and Western Digital's SSD design—often lead to these unforeseen consequences. As our technology becomes more intertwined, the margin for error narrows, and so do our certainties.

Broader Implications​

Issues surrounding the 24H2 update may prompt serious conversations about the state of software testing and quality control practices in today’s fast-paced tech environment. Will this push Microsoft to reconsider its current model or fuel a new wave of competition as users look for reliable alternatives?

Conclusion​

The advent of Windows 11 24H2 has illustrated the delicate dance between innovation and stability. If you're among those affected by these BSOD issues related to your Western Digital SSD, you might feel frustrated—but don’t despair. With a potential rollback or registry tweak, you can reclaim control over your machine. Just remember that with every update, it’s essential to tread carefully, understanding the delicate mechanics that keep our machines humming.

Engage with Your Community​

Have you experienced the fallout from the latest Windows 11 update? What fixes have worked for you? Share your experiences and tips in the comments! Your insights could be the beacon of hope for someone else navigating this rocky terrain.
Source: TechSpot Windows 11 24H2 is causing headaches, BSODs for some Western Digital SSD owners

 

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If you're one of the unfortunate users of Western Digital's SSDs, particularly the Black SN770 or Blue SN580, the latest Windows 11 24H2 update might feel less like a shiny upgrade and more like a high-speed rollercoaster ride to the land of Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). The tech world is buzzing about the chaos that has unfolded since the rollout of this update, raising eyebrows and countless questions about software stability and hardware compatibility.

What’s Happening?​

The Windows 11 24H2 update, touted as a leap forward in performance and feature-richness (think artificial intelligence enhancements and snazzy new tools), seems to have stumbled upon a major hiccup. Reports have been coming in thick and fast from users lamenting about their systems crashing and entering an endless loop of restart and failure. The culprits? The Western Digital SSDs utilizing the Host Memory Buffer (HMB) technology.

The Nuts and Bolts of HMB and BSOD​

Typically, these SSDs lean on a relatively understated feature known as HMB, which commandeers a chunk of your system RAM as a caching mechanism. Normally, the allocation hovers around a comfortable 64MB. However, something went awry with the 24H2 update, and users have found themselves trapped in a nightmare where that allocation has surged to a staggering 200MB. This overzealous consumption of RAM creates chaos during input/output operations, leaving users facing not just the dreaded BSOD but potentially deep-seated instability in their systems.

Solutions – Taming the Tech Beast​

For those brave enough to experiment, there are a couple of lifeboats available in the turbulent seas of the 24H2 update:

1. Rollback to the Previous Version​

Many users have reported that rolling back to version 23H2 provides immediate relief from the BSOD blues. While this option means denying yourself the latest features, it does restore stability—at least temporarily.

2. Registry Hack – A Potential Fix​

For the bold-hearted, a registry tweak offers hope. Here’s how to wade through the murky waters of the Windows Registry:

• Open the Registry Editor: Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
• Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\StorPort
• Create or Modify: Look for the HmbAllocationPolicy key. If it doesn't exist, right-click on the StorPort folder, create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it HmbAllocationPolicy.
• Set the Value: Adjust the value to 0 (to disable it) or 2 (to limit it to a safer 64MB).
• Restart Your Computer: A reboot is essential for these changes to take effect.

Caution: Proceed with care in the Windows Registry; it’s a fickle friend, and incorrect changes can lead to unwanted mayhem. Always back up your data first!

Broader Implications – A Call to Action​

The tumult surrounding the 24H2 update and its interaction with Western Digital SSDs raises significant questions about Microsoft’s software quality control and testing processes. As technology becomes more interconnected, issues like these not only affect individual users but can ripple through entire organizations, impacting productivity and causing widespread frustration.
Moreover, this incident has ignited chatter about Microsoft's Insider Program, prompting concerns that enthusiastic users are becoming unwitting beta testers for updates that roll out without adequate scrutiny. Will this spur Microsoft to rethink its update protocols? Or will dedicated users continue to navigate these treacherous waters, hoping each new update isn't a ticking time bomb?

Conclusion – Navigating the Digital Minefield​

As we ride the waves of the latest Windows 11 innovations, it's essential for users—especially those reliant on specific hardware configurations—to remain vigilant. The Windows 11 24H2 update saga serves as a stark reminder to tread carefully and understand the intricate dance of software and hardware.
Have you experienced the chaos of the 24H2 update, or found innovative ways to mitigate the impact? Share your experiences in the comments—after all, the tech community is only as strong as its collective insights! Stay informed, stay engaged, and tread cautiously on your digital journey.
Source: Deccan Chronicle Windows 11 24H2 Update Leading to Blue Screen of Death for Users with WD SSD's

 

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In recent weeks, the rollout of Microsoft’s highly anticipated Windows 11 24H2 update has hit quite a snag for some users, particularly those equipped with specific models of Western Digital SSDs. Reports have been pouring in about an uptick in Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) incidents, leaving those affected frustrated and scratching their heads. But fear not, tech-savvy friends! Let’s dive deep into this quagmire, examining both what’s causing these crashes and what you can do about it.

What’s Going Wrong?​

The Windows 11 24H2 update, which aimed to enhance user experience and incorporate new features, seems to come with an unexpected hitch: crashing. Users, especially those sporting certain Western Digital SSD models, have voiced their woes across various platforms. Although Microsoft has yet to officially confirm these issues, the evidence is mounting.
The error many users are seeing — “critical process has died” — suggests that the issue primarily lies in the NVMe SSD storage drivers. Further analysis has shown two types of errors logged in the Event Viewer post-crash: stornvme and “The driver detected a controller error on \Device\RaidPort 1”. This latter error points to potential RAID configuration troubles, implicating the system’s ability to manage multiple drives effectively.

Which SSDs Are Affected?​

The troubling culprits appear to be specific models from Western Digital, notably the WD SN770 and WD SN580, both of which are DRAM-less SSDs designed to utilize a feature called Host Memory Buffer (HMB). This feature allows SSDs to tap into a portion of the system RAM to boost performance, but it’s this dependency that seems to contribute to the crash issues when the 24H2 update grants the full 200MB of memory.

The HMB Connection​

To understand why these crashes are happening, it’s crucial to explore the Host Memory Buffer (HMB) concept. In essence, HMB allows SSDs without their own DRAM cache to temporarily "borrow" a fraction of system memory. This improves the speed of data access and can enhance overall performance — but only if implemented correctly. It appears that granting SSDs a larger memory allocation than they can handle leads to critical failures.

Possible Solutions for Affected Users​

If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, there are a couple of paths you can take:

• Rollback the Update: The most straightforward (albeit least desirable) solution is to revert your system to the previous version of Windows (23H2) until Microsoft rolls out a fix.
• Survey the Registry: Users on Western Digital forums have unearthed a workaround, albeit one that requires some risky registry tweaking. This fix involves disabling HMB altogether, and while it may stave off BSOD occurrences, it will likely result in reduced SSD performance. Proceed with caution if you choose this route!
• Wait for Microsoft to Act: There’s a strong possibility that Microsoft may proactively halt updates for PCs with these specific SSDs until a resolution is found, so keeping an eye on official communications from Microsoft or the latest Windows updates would be prudent.

A Broader Context​

This incident shines a light on the broader issues surrounding new software updates. The tension between introducing cutting-edge features and ensuring stability often leads to such complications. While the ramp-up in AI capabilities within Windows 11 is exciting, it’s crucial that these upgrades do not come at the cost of the user experience — especially when users rely on their machines daily.

Final Thoughts​

As Microsoft continues to juggle all of these issues, it’s a vivid reminder of the unpredictable world of technology — where one patch can save the day or turn it upside down. If you’re one of the unfortunate users experiencing these crashes, don’t despair. Keep your software updated, monitor community forums for fixes, and remember that you’re not alone in this technological rollercoaster.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story evolves, and happy computing to all! If you've had your fill of BSODs, or just want to share your thoughts on Windows 11 24H2, jump into the comments below or join the discussion on the forum.
Source: Digital Trends Windows 11 24H2 may crash your PC if you have a certain SSD

 

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As Microsoft rolls out its Windows 11 24H2 update, many users are experiencing an all-too-familiar nightmare: the ominous Blue Screens of Death (BSOD). This time, the headache seems to be particularly acute for owners of certain Western Digital SSDs, specifically the SN770 and SN580 models. One must wonder—as the updates arrive annually, is there ever a major Windows roll-out that doesn't tumble into chaos?

The Trouble with SSDs​

The wave of BSODs appearing on systems equipped with these SSDs isn't just chance; it's tied to an issue with a component called the Host Memory Buffer (HMB). Generally, all solid-state drives (SSDs) need to maintain a map that helps track where data is situated within their flash memory chips. This map regularly updates as data is created or discarded.
In typical SSD scenarios, data mapping occurs through a dedicated Dynamic Random-Access Memory (DRAM) module. However, many gaming SSDs, including some from Western Digital, opt for a cost-cutting measure to forego DRAM, instead using a slice of the computer's system memory via HMB. This method can significantly hinder performance during extensive operations involving frequent writes and deletions.

What’s Going Wrong?​

The predicament stems from a compatibility issue with the 64 MB HMB size employed in the SN770 and SN580 models. With the 24H2 update, Microsoft upped the ante by increasing the HMB allocation to 200 MB—and that’s where things started to fall apart. The existing firmware of these specific SSDs simply cannot cope with the change, leading to a cascade of errors exhibited by repeated BSODs.
Most current recommendations for coping with this issue consist of delving into Windows’ registry. Users can navigate to the registry key located at Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\StorPort. Here, a variable titled HMBAllocationPolicy can be adjusted: setting this value to 0 reportedly disables HMB and temporarily aims to stabilize those pesky crashes. Alternatively, some have found that setting the value to 2 can yield success.
In the realm of solutions, rolling back Windows to the prior 23H2 edition is another avenue some users have taken—but ideally, the final resolution will require collaborative fixes from Microsoft and Western Digital in the form of firmware updates.

What’s Next for Users?​

With the 24H2 update being released gradually, not everyone has the opportunity to download it just yet. However, if you own a Western Digital SN770 or SN580 SSD, it's wise to hold off on the installation until further updates or fixes are confirmed by Western Digital. As millions update their devices, it's essential to remember this cautionary tale of compatibility and firmware mishaps.

Broader Implications​

As amusing as it may seem to complain about the reliability of Windows updates, there’s a larger discussion to be had regarding how Microsoft communicates its changes to hardware developers. Was it clear to partners like Western Digital about the planned changes to HMB allocations? Many other SSDs use a static 64 MB HMB without incident, suggesting that communication breakdowns could lie at the center of these troubles.
As we navigate this digital realm, it’s crucial for both developers and consumers to share information effectively to minimize downtime and frustration. In the end, we can only hope for an update that encourages stability rather than dread.
So, for our fellow tech enthusiasts and casual users alike—be prepared, stay informed, and always keep an eye on those firmware updates as the saga continues!
Source: PC Gamer As Microsoft rolls out its Windows 11 24H2 update, owners of certain Western Digital SSDs have been greeted with constant Blue Screens of Death

 

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In a technological world where updates are supposed to equate to improvements, the recent experiences of some Windows 11 users tell a different tale. The rollout of the Windows 11 24H2 update has hit a bump on the road for enthusiasts wielding certain Western Digital SSDs, leading to a series of disconcerting Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors. Today, we dissect this issue, its underlying causes, and the temporary workaround that could restore some sanity to those affected.

The Root of the Problem: Unraveling Compatibility Issues​

Microsoft has acknowledged the emergence of a compatibility problem between the latest Windows update and specific models of Western Digital SSDs, which has caused catastrophic BSOD failures. So, what’s happening here? The crux of the issue lies in the interaction between the updated storage drivers in Windows 11 24H2 and the RAID controllers associated with these SSDs.
One key player in this drama is the concept of Host Memory Buffer (HMB). HMB is a nifty little feature that allows SSDs to utilize a segment of your system’s RAM to enhance their performance. Traditionally, older iterations of Windows allocated a modest amount of this memory. For instance, previous updates might only tap into about 64MB, but the 24H2 update ambitiously claims the entire HMB capacity requested by the SSD — a staggering 200MB in cases like the WD SN770.
Then comes the twist: if the SSD's firmware isn't equipped to handle such a hefty allocation, it sets off a chain reaction of write operation failures. The endgame? File system corruption and the dreaded BSOD, leaving many users staring blankly at a stop error code instead of their beloved desktop.

Identifying the Issues: What Should You Look For?​

For tech-savvy users experiencing this problem, the Event Viewer logs may leave breadcrumbs pointing to the culprits of their woes. Common error messages include:

• "stornvme – NVMe Storage Driver"
• "The driver detected a controller error on \Device\RaidPort1 or 2"

If these messages resonate with you, it might be time to take action.

Temporary Workaround: Navigating the Registry Maze​

For those caught in this unpleasant BSOD nightmare, a temporary workaround exists, albeit with some performance trade-offs. The method involves adjusting settings through the Windows Registry Editor. Here’s a simple guide on how to undertake this fix:

• Open Registry Editor:
• Press Windows key + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
• Navigate to the Right Path:
• Go to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\stornvme\Parameters\Device
• Create or Modify HMBAllocationPolicy:
• Right-click on the Device key, select New, and choose DWORD (32-bit) Value.
• Name it HMBAllocationPolicy.
• Disable HMB:
• Double-click on the new HMBAllocationPolicy entry, set the Value data to 0, and click OK.

While this action may help alleviate some BSOD incidents, it’s essential to understand that disabling HMB could impact the SSD’s performance significantly—though the extent varies based on the specific model and its usage patterns.

A Call for Patience: Awaiting Permanent Solutions​

As the tech community frets over these Blue Screens, Microsoft is expected to muster a permanent solution for this hiccup in future updates. If your SSD’s performance is essential for your daily tasks or gaming sessions, you might want to consider holding off on this update until an official fix rolls out.

In Conclusion: Software and Hardware—A Double-Edged Sword​

This scenario serves as a stark reminder of how software updates, while essential, can also precipitate unforeseen compatibility challenges. It underscores the importance of being mindful of updates, especially when they interact with specific hardware configurations. As we navigate this digital landscape fraught with potential pitfalls, staying informed and prepared can make all the difference.
If you're one of the unlucky souls grappling with BSOD issues post-Windows 11 24H2 update, consider sharing your experiences on our forum. Your insights could be invaluable to others facing the same tech tribulations!
Source: PC-Tablet India Windows 11 24H2 Update Causing Blue Screen of Death on Some Systems with Western Digital SSDs

 

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If you've recently updated to Windows 11 24H2 and are experiencing a sudden spate of Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) crashes, you're not alone. Following the deployment of this latest update, certain models of Western Digital SSDs have been identified as the culprits behind these critical failures. First reported by Windows Latest, the issue specifically affects users with specific SSDs, leading to a frustrating experience as system failures disrupt normal computing tasks.

What SSDs Are Affected?​

From the voices of users within the Western Digital forums, two main models have emerged as the troublemakers:

• WD SN770
• WD SN580

Users with these SSDs have reported encountering BSODs featuring the ominous error message: "Critical Process Has Died." This issue arises specifically after updating to Windows 11 24H2, indicating a clear association between the update and the malfunctioning drives.

Why Are the Crashes Happening?​

The root cause of these crashes is thought to be linked to faulty memory drivers that struggle to handle the Host Memory Buffer (HMB) requirements inherent in these SSD models. The HMB is designed to enhance performance by allowing the SSD to utilize system memory more efficiently. However, issues with this setup have been noted, particularly in contexts where updates can exacerbate underlying driver deficiencies.
Interestingly, these SSD models previously gave users trouble with a different Windows update (23H2), indicating that their compatibility issues may be a persistent problem for Western Digital products within the Windows ecosystem.

Troubleshooting: Temporary Workaround​

It's worth noting that reinstalling Windows or physically repositioning the drives is unlikely to provide relief from this crashing issue. However, there is a workaround to temporarily alleviate the problem:

Steps to Disable HMB in Windows Registry:​

• Hit the Start menu and type Registry Editor to locate the app.
• In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path:
  

   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\stornvme\Parameters\Device

• Look for HMBAllocationPolicy in the right panel. If it’s not present, right-click in an empty space and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name it HMBAllocationPolicy.
• Double-click on HMBAllocationPolicy and set its value to 0.
• Restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

Caution: Disabling HMB may negatively impact SSD performance, but it serves as a necessary stopgap while a more permanent solution from Microsoft or Western Digital is pending.

The Bigger Picture​

It’s essential for Windows users with impacted hardware to stay vigilant. With Microsoft and Western Digital reportedly aware of the crashes, many are eagerly waiting for an official patch that may resolve these issues more comprehensively.
Additionally, this situation underscores the importance of driver stability, particularly with critical updates. As systems evolve, manufacturers must keep pace with updates to ensure continued compatibility and performance optimization.
In a world where SSDs are becoming the backbone of performance computing, it’s vital to remain informed. This may not be the first hardware-related hiccup with Windows, and it certainly won't be the last. As the ecosystem continues to grow, so too must our understanding and troubleshooting skills in tandem.
As always, keep your systems regularly backed up and be cautious during major updates, especially if the hardware is known to have compatibility issues. If you have additional experiences or tips related to this matter, sharing them can help our community navigate these choppy waters. Happy computing!
Source: PCWorld Manufacturers release patch for SSD-related Windows 11 24H2 crashes

 

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Windows 11 24H2 Update Causes Blue Screen Crashes for Western Digital SSD Users​

The latest installment of Microsoft’s ongoing love-hate relationship with Windows updates has prompted widespread concern among users, particularly those who rely on Western Digital solid-state drives (SSDs). With the recent rollout of the Windows 11 24H2 update, many users have found themselves unexpectedly facing the infamous Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), often rendering their systems unusable and their data potentially vulnerable.

The Perfect Storm of Bugs​

Windows updates have historically inspired dread among users, and it seems this time is no different. As the 24H2 update was rolled out, a specific subset of users—with Western Digital SSDs—has reported a cascade of problems. Upon installation, many have experienced frequent crashes leading to the dreaded BSOD, a haunting blue screen that signifies a critical system error, forcing users to reboot. The timing of these issues suggests a direct correlation between the update and the performance of these SSDs—an unsettling scenario for those who depend on their storage devices for everyday tasks.

What’s the Cause?​

While the precise cause of these crashes is still somewhat nebulous, early analysis points to potential incompatibilities between the Windows 11 update and the drivers or firmware associated with certain Western Digital SSDs. This kind of incompatibility can occur when software dependencies, like device drivers, are not updated in accordance with new operating system changes.
In the case of SSDs, this can lead to significant issues because they play a crucial role in system performance. Faulty firmware can disrupt how the operating system interacts with the storage device, leading to errors that manifest as system crashes. The message here is clear: users must keep their firmware up to date, especially during major OS updates.

What Should Affected Users Do?​

• Seek Safe Mode: If you find yourself victim to a BSOD, the first course of action is to boot your device in Safe Mode. This will allow you to start Windows with a minimal set of drivers and can often aid in troubleshooting to identify the cause of the crash.
• Roll Back the Update: For those whose systems have been destabilized by the update, rolling back to a previous version of Windows may be the safest option until Microsoft can address the issue more comprehensively. Users can reach this through the settings menu under 'Update & Security.'
• Check for Firmware Updates: Western Digital may release updated firmware for its SSDs to resolve compatibility issues with Windows 11. Regularly check their official website or your drive management software for updates.
• Monitor News and Forums: Online communities, such as the WindowsForum, offer real-time feedback and advice from other users who may have experienced similar issues. Keeping an eye on these can provide insight into potential fixes and workarounds.

A Broader Context​

The issues sparked by this update are part of a larger trend in the tech industry regarding software and hardware compatibility. As technology rapidly evolves, maintaining harmony between various components becomes increasingly complex. This incident reminds us of the delicate balance within the technology ecosystem and emphasizes the importance of proactive maintenance and updates.

A Possible Upside?​

While the frustration is palpable, these user reports may lead to quicker fixes and improvements in the long run. Software developers often issue patches in response to significant user feedback, and this could also push Western Digital to prioritize updates for their firmware.

Conclusion​

In summary, while updates are necessary for security and performance improvements, they can sometimes feel like a double-edged sword. For users of Western Digital SSDs, Microsoft’s Windows 11 24H2 rollout has resulted in unprecedented levels of frustration. As users navigate these turbulent waters, diligence in tracking updates, firmware checks, and community engagement will be critical.
As always, vigilance is key in the world of technology—one moment your system is humming along, and the next, it’s showing you the dreaded BSOD. So let’s keep our fingers crossed and hope that Microsoft will remedy this situation quickly. Until then, keep your systems updated, and don’t hesitate to revert back if you find yourself troubled by glitchy updates.

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Source: MSN MSN

 

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In a shocking development for enthusiasts and regular users alike, reports have emerged indicating that the recent Windows 11 24H2 update is causing serious stability issues for Western Digital NVMe SSD users. If you’ve experienced looping Blue Screens of Death (BSOD) since this update, you’re not alone. But worry not; a simple registry tweak may save the day.

The Root of the Problem: Misconfigured Host Memory Buffer​

Since October 8, users in the Western Digital community have raised alarms about a troubling trend: after installing Windows 11 24H2, many have found themselves facing relentless BSODs. The primary culprit? A misconfigured Host Memory Buffer (HMB).
So, what exactly is HMB? In simple terms, Host Memory Buffer allows NVMe drives to utilize a portion of your system's RAM as additional cache, iteratively enhancing performance. Ideally, this allocation is around 64MB, but anecdotal evidence suggests that the 24H2 update may push this to an unnecessarily large 200MB. This misallocation leads to the dreaded instability experienced by users of specific Western Digital models, notably the WD Blue SN580 and WD Black SN770.

How to Fix the Crashing Issue​

Fortunately, effective mitigations have surfaced following these complaints. Western Digital NVMe SSD users can resolve the BSOD conundrum through a straightforward registry edit. Below are the steps:

• Enter the Registry Editor:
• Open the Start Menu, type Regedit, and hit enter.
  [*Locate the HMB Key:
• Navigate to:

   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\StorPort

  [*Modify HMB Settings:
• Create a subkey named HmbAllocationPolicy if it’s not already there.
• Set the DWORD value to either:
• 0 to disable HMB entirely (less performance).
• 2 to revert to the original 64MB allocation.
• Consider Reverting the Update:
• Some users reported success by rolling back the Windows 11 24H2 update altogether, especially if the performance after the registry change was unsatisfactory.

Broader Implications​

Though this issue is currently observed in Western Digital drives, it’s important to note that HMB is not exclusive to them. This suggests that similar problems could arise for other NVMe SSD manufacturers as well if Windows 11's management of HMB is left unchecked.
So, whether you’re a DIY PC builder or a casual user, keeping an eye on the Windows community discussions and promptly addressing concerns could save you some headaches.

Wrapping Up​

If you’re a Western Digital NVMe SSD user grappling with BSODs after the recent update, tweaking the registry settings could restore stability to your system. While these dynamic SSDs promise speed and efficiency, it’s crucial to stay proactive in managing the system’s interactions with them—especially after major updates.
And remember—if you encounter BSOD issues after installing Windows 11 24H2 with a non-Western Digital NVMe drive, don't hesitate to apply similar fixes. Staying informed and engaged will ensure smoother computing experiences as we navigate these enhancements in operating systems.

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For detailed instructions and further updates on this topic, make sure to stay connected with community forums and tech news outlets. Your enthusiasm for cutting-edge technology shouldn’t be hampered by these bumps in the road!
Source: Tom's Hardware Western Digital NVMe SSD users beware: Windows 11 24H2 is causing BSODs unless you tweak your registry

 

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Windows 11 24H2 Update Causing Blue Screen of Death Issues for Western Digital SSD Users​

As Microsoft pushes forward with its Windows 11 24H2 update, a fresh wave of complaints has surfaced, echoing the perennial woes of users grappling with system instability. This time, the spotlight falls on owners of specific Western Digital SSDs. Many have reported an alarming incidence of Blue Screens of Death (BSOD) following the installation of the latest update—a reminder that progress in technology can sometimes come with unanticipated pitfalls.

The Crux of the Problem​

The 24H2 update, while aimed at improving user experience with various enhancements—including security patches, performance upgrades, and new features—has inadvertently introduced a significant headache for some. Users of Western Digital SSD products have found themselves facing repeated crashes, characterized by the dreaded BSOD. This issue not only disrupts productivity but also raises serious concerns about system reliability, especially for users relying on their computers for critical tasks.

What Causes the BSOD with Western Digital SSDs?​

The root cause of this phenomenon is still under investigation, but common suspicions lie in the compatibility between the new Windows update and specific firmware versions of the SSDs. The BSOD itself is often triggered by hardware faults, driver incompatibilities, or unpatched software bugs. In this scenario, users may encounter error messages suggesting hardware failures or driver conflicts related to their SSD.

Possible Indicators:​

• Incompatible Drivers: Outdated or incompatible SSD drivers might lead to resource access issues, resulting in system crashes.
• Firmware Conflicts: When Windows 11 updates its infrastructure, it can sometimes clash with the existing firmware on SSDs that haven’t been updated to align with new OS features.
• Corrupted System Files: The update process can occasionally interrupt critical file structures, leading to overall system instability.

Mitigating the Damage​

For users who find themselves in this unfortunate scenario, a series of steps can be taken to either rectify the issue or minimize disruption:

Step-by-Step Guide to Address BSOD on Windows 11 with Western Digital SSDs​

• Boot into Safe Mode:
• Restart your computer and enter Safe Mode by holding down the Shift key while selecting Restart Option. This allows you to access the system with minimal drivers.
• Update SSD Drivers:
• Navigate to Device Manager (Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager).
• Locate Disk Drives, right-click your Western Digital SSD, and select Update Driver.
• Check for Firmware Updates:
• Visit the Western Digital support page to download the latest firmware updates for your SSD model.
• Rollback Update:
• If stability continues to elude you, consider rolling back the latest Windows update. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history > Uninstall updates.
• Contact Support:
• If problems persist, reaching out to Western Digital’s customer support or Microsoft’s support channels may yield specific instructions or patches to resolve the issue.

The Bigger Picture​

This scenario encapsulates a growing concern in the tech industry: the delicate balance between software innovation and hardware compatibility. It serves as a cautionary tale for all tech enthusiasts and professionals who must remain vigilant about the implications of updates. While Microsoft continually seeks to enhance user experience with its regular updates, the compatibility of those updates with diverse systems remains a critical issue.
The incident with Western Digital SSDs is emblematic of broader struggles as users and manufacturers navigate a rapidly evolving tech landscape, where the promise of a better system is sometimes undermined by unforeseen complications.
In the world of IT and computing, where every byte matters, it’s crucial for users to stay informed, prepared, and proactive in safeguarding their systems against instability—especially after significant updates like Windows 11 24H2.

Conclusion​

As Microsoft rolls on with its ambitious updates, users must remain proactive, particularly those with hardware from manufacturers like Western Digital. While software updates are essential for security and functionality, ensuring compatibility through rigorous testing and timely driver updates is equally crucial. In this ever-evolving landscape, it’s the users who ultimately drive the conversation about technology, pushing for enhancements while also demanding stability and reliability in their systems.

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Source: MSN MSN

 

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Riding the waves of Windows updates, the recent 24H2 iteration for Windows 11 has emerged alongside an unwelcome guest—a series of distressing Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) incidents for owners of specific Western Digital NVMe SSDs. This unsettling scenario has transformed a routine update into a perplexing puzzle for users relying on some models of Western Digital’s storage solutions, notably the WD Black SN770 and the WD Blue SN580.

The Trouble with 24H2​

From its arrival, Windows 11 24H2 was poised to deliver smoother performance and new features. However, a dark cloud has settled over users of certain NVMe drives. Reports flooding in from the WD community indicate a nightmare situation where users are grappling with random BSoD crashes and, worst of all, boot loops—a tech user's equivalent of a bad horror movie ending.

What's Causing the Carnage?​

The root of the problem is tangled in the Host Memory Buffer (HMB) feature—a memory management system that leverages the main system RAM as a cache for SSDs lacking dedicated DRAM. This approach is beneficial when working effectively, but the latest update seems to have misconfigured how much memory is allocated, setting it at a hefty 200MB instead of a more manageable size.
As the news swept through technology forums, a workaround emerged, masking itself as a potential lifesaver. A simple journey into your Registry settings could yield a solution. Users reported success by either disabling the HMB feature entirely or adjusting the allocation policy. Specifically, switching the HMBAllocationPolicy to 0 disables the feature, while setting it to 2 limits the buffer to 64MB—an elegant fix that retains some performance boosts while keeping your machine operational.

Registry or Rollback: The User's Crossroad​

For those less inclined to play registry tinkerer, there's an alternative: rolling back to the previous Windows version, 23H2. This is a straightforward remedy that many users have found effective, allowing them to escape the chaotic aftermath of 24H2 while waiting for either a Microsoft patch or a firmware fix from Western Digital. Unfortunately, even updating the SSD firmware has not been a reliable fix so far, complicating matters further.

The Bigger Picture​

With the phased rollout of Windows 11 24H2, it's critical for Microsoft to address this growing concern before it snowballs. Users of Western Digital NVMe SSDs are numerous, and the probability of this bug affecting a larger audience as the update gains traction is significant. Experts anticipate Microsoft implementing a compatibility hold for affected machines to preemptively shield those systems from this BSoD barrage.

Conclusion: Stay Tuned​

As it stands, Western Digital SSD users—especially those wielding the SN770 and SN580—should remain vigilant. While tinkering with the Registry might be the quick fix you're looking for, pressing pause on the update may be the safest route until more information is available.
For those eager to discuss and share their experiences, our forum is open for debate, innovation, and troubleshooting assistance regarding these SSD issues and the wider implications of Windows updates. Stay safe, and happy computing!
Source: TweakTown Own a Western Digital SSD? Windows 11 24H2 could be a BSoD nightmare - but there's a fudged fix