Major Windows 11 Update Introduces Serious SSD Risks

Microsoft's recent Windows 11 version 24H2 update, KB5063878, released on August 12, 2025, aimed to iron out earlier login delays. However, it seems to have brought along a significant problem that could spell disaster for your storage devices.

Installation Errors Are Just the Beginning

While some users initially reported an installation hiccup—error code Ox80240069—most of those issues have since been resolved. But the real nightmare lies in the aftermath of this update.

SSD and HDD Disappearances: A User's Alarming Find

According to a disturbing report from Twitter user @Necoru_cat (Nekorusukii), many individuals are discovering that their SSDs and HDDs are vanishing from Windows 11 entirely. In some extreme cases, data becomes completely unrecoverable after running this update.

The Hidden Dangers in Large File Transfers

Nekorusukii's investigations revealed that the problematic update is particularly susceptible when managing large files, especially those exceeding 50GB and when drives are over 60% occupied. The error causes the operating system to lose connection with the drives—rendering files inaccessible and SMART data unreadable.

A Temporary Fix? But at What Cost?

If you encounter this issue, a simple reboot might temporarily restore the drive’s functionality. However, pushing the drive again under similar circumstances could lead to a repeat of the problem.

Which Devices Are Affected? Take Caution!

In testing 21 different SSDs from major brands including Samsung, WD, and Seagate, Nekorusukii identified that the Phison NAND controller is likely at fault. The results varied widely: some drives vanished temporarily, while the WD Blue SA510 2TB SATA SSD was confirmed unrecoverable.

User Reports Spark Concerns Across the Community

Tom's Hardware also noted that while the issue seems limited, several other users have reported similar problems, broadening the potentially affected SSD list to include Corsair, KIOXIA, and even InnoGrit SSDs.

Your Best Bet? Stay Cautious!

While Microsoft is aware of these storage issues and is currently investigating, experts recommend exercising extreme caution. Until concrete fixes or statements are released, avoid large file transfers on systems running the latest update if you're using any of the possibly affected drives.

Backup or Bust: The Importance of Data Safety

This situation serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for data backups. Whether it's a computer failure or an unexpected bug, losing important files is a real threat. Adhere to the 3-2-1 backup rule, ensuring that three copies of your data exist, two on different media, and one stored off-site for safety.

The Bottom Line

Stay vigilant and backup frequently. The latest updates might not be as reliable as they seem, and your data's safety depends on it!