Microsoft has issued an unusual warning to millions of Windows users: don’t install the most recent update. The alert concerns the optional KB5036980 patch, which has caused problems for a significant number of users who applied it manually. This update, released earlier this April, is now being flagged for causing system issues that include crashes and login failures.
Windows update leads to serious login errors
Users who installed KB5036980 have reported being locked out of their accounts. According to Microsoft, the update can trigger a “restart loop” for some users, making it impossible to complete the sign-in process. These problems appear primarily on systems using Microsoft Entra ID, which is often deployed across businesses and education environments.
Microsoft urges caution until the fix is deployed
The company has paused the rollout of the update for affected systems. While the update remains optional, Microsoft now recommends that users avoid installing it until a proper fix is ready. Those who have already encountered problems are being advised to enter safe mode and use recovery options to regain access to their system.
Enterprise users most likely to be impacted
Although home users are less likely to run into issues, organizations relying on Entra ID integration could face more severe consequences. Administrators are being advised to skip the patch altogether if they haven’t already applied it. Microsoft is actively investigating the root of the problem and working on a patch to correct the issue.
How to protect your Windows system in the meantime
To stay safe, users should avoid optional updates unless they address specific needs. Monitoring Microsoft’s health dashboard and waiting for official fixes remains the best course of action. Those who depend on their machines for work or study should exercise extra care and avoid rushing into manual update installations.
Microsoft’s warning highlights patch unpredictability
This recent alert serves as a reminder that even well-tested updates can introduce unexpected problems. While Microsoft typically encourages prompt patching, this case flips the usual message on its head. For now, skipping KB5036980 may be the smartest choice for users looking to keep their systems stable and secure.
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