ASUS users facing difficulties installing Windows 11 24H2 due to blue screen of death (BSOD) errors can now proceed with the upgrade after applying a crucial BIOS update. This update resolves the compatibility issues Microsoft acknowledged last October, ensuring a smoother transition to the latest Windows version for affected devices.
Background on the BSOD Issue
In late 2023, Microsoft identified a problem that caused specific ASUS laptops to crash during the Windows 11 24H2 installation process. The affected models—ASUS X415KA and X515KA—would experience a BSOD error, preventing the update from completing successfully. To protect users, Microsoft implemented a compatibility hold, temporarily blocking these ASUS devices from upgrading to Windows 11 24H2.
The issue stemmed from certain hardware components within these laptops, which were incompatible with the update at the time. Microsoft confirmed that the safeguard was necessary to avoid widespread failures and system instability.
ASUS BIOS Update Resolves Compatibility Issue
To address the problem, ASUS has now released a BIOS update that enables users to install Windows 11 24H2 without encountering BSOD errors. In a recent update to its Windows Release Health dashboard, Microsoft confirmed that the BIOS update is now rolling out to affected devices.
Users with ASUS X415KA and X515KA models running a BIOS version lower than 311 must install the latest update before attempting the Windows 11 24H2 upgrade. Microsoft classifies this BIOS update as a Critical Update (CU) and has made it available through Windows Update.
While the safeguard hold remains in place for now, Microsoft stated that it will be gradually lifted as more users update their BIOS.
How to Install the BIOS Update
ASUS users who want to ensure a smooth Windows 11 24H2 upgrade should install the BIOS update first. The update is accessible through:
- Settings > Windows Update
- Check for updates and install the Critical BIOS Update
- Restart the system and proceed with the Windows 11 upgrade
This process ensures that the system meets the necessary requirements and avoids crashes during the installation.
Other Safeguard Holds Recently Lifted
This isn’t the only compatibility hold Microsoft has addressed in recent weeks. In January, Microsoft also lifted a safeguard hold related to gaming issues affecting Windows 11 2024 Update.
Previously, PCs with Auto HDR enabled faced problems such as:
- Game freezes
- Graphics appearing overly saturated and high-contrast
Additionally, Microsoft resolved compatibility issues that prevented Assassin’s Creed players from upgrading due to frequent crashes, freezes, and audio bugs. With these fixes, more users can now install the Windows 11 24H2 update without disruptions.
Remaining Compatibility Holds
Despite these improvements, some Windows 11 users still won’t be able to install version 24H2 due to remaining safeguard holds. These blocks exist for systems with:
- Asphalt 8: Airborne installed
- Dirac audio improvement software
- Integrated cameras with unresolved compatibility issues
- Safe Exam Browser or Easy Anti-Cheat applications running
Until Microsoft provides fixes for these software-related problems, users with these configurations will not be able to upgrade to Windows 11 24H2.
Final Thoughts
For ASUS X415KA and X515KA users eager to upgrade to Windows 11 24H2, the BIOS update is now the key to unlocking the update. With Microsoft gradually lifting restrictions as more users install the fix, affected customers should ensure their BIOS is up to date before attempting the installation.
For those still facing compatibility holds, staying updated on Microsoft’s Windows Release Health dashboard is essential. As more fixes roll out, additional safeguard blocks will be lifted, making the latest version of Windows 11 accessible to even more users.
