What is causing the Windows shutdown bug?

The shutdown bug in Windows occurs when System Guard Secure Launch and potentially Virtual Secure Mode (VSM) are active.

Which Windows versions are affected by the shutdown problem?

Windows 11 version 23H2 and Windows 10 versions 22H2, Enterprise LTSC 2019, and Enterprise LTSC 2021 are affected by this shutdown issue.

How can I temporarily fix my Windows PC not shutting down?

A temporary workaround for the Windows shutdown problem involves using the command 'shutdown /s /t 0'.

Home / Technology / Windows PCs Refuse to Shut Down: Microsoft Fix Incoming

Windows PCs Refuse to Shut Down: Microsoft Fix Incoming

2 Feb

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Summary

A widespread bug prevents proper shutdown or hibernation on Windows.
Both Windows 11 and Windows 10 are affected by this issue.
System Guard Secure Launch and VSM are implicated in the shutdown problem.

Windows PCs Refuse to Shut Down: Microsoft Fix Incoming

A significant bug is preventing many Windows users from shutting down or hibernating their computers. This issue, which first appeared after a January update for Windows 11, has now been confirmed to affect a broader range of systems.

Both Windows 11 version 23H2 and various versions of Windows 10, including 22H2, Enterprise LTSC 2019, and Enterprise LTSC 2021, are impacted. Microsoft has identified that the problem occurs when the System Guard Secure Launch feature is active, a security measure typically operating only during system startup.

Furthermore, Virtual Secure Mode (VSM) appears to be contributing to the inability of affected PCs to shut down correctly. Microsoft is currently developing a permanent fix for this widespread problem while offering a temporary command-line workaround, shutdown /s /t 0, for users to employ.