Samsung computers: Problems seemingly after Windows updates
Microsoft reports user complaints about problems with Windows updates on some Samsung devices. The cause lies elsewhere.
(Image: heise online / dmk)
The installation of Microsoft's Windows updates for the February Patchday or newer versions is causing severe side effects on some Samsung devices, users have reported to Microsoft. The computers can then no longer access their C: drive. However, the Windows updates are not to blame this time.
In the Windows Release Health notes, Microsoft's developers elaborate on the problem. Users might encounter the error message "C:\ is not accessible – Access denied", which prevents access to files and affects the startup of some applications such as Outlook, Office apps, web browsers, system tools, or Quick Assist.
Samsung app causes problems
In a joint analysis, Microsoft and Samsung have identified the culprit: the "Samsung Galaxy Connect" app. This app is used for seamless connection of Samsung devices, for example via "Quick Share", "Link to Windows", "Smart View" (Screen Mirroring), and similar features. While the timing seems to coincide with the March or February updates, investigations have shown that neither recent nor current Windows updates are causing this problem.
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The problems were observed on Samsung Galaxy Book 4 and Samsung desktop computers running Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2. The series known to have the problem so far include Samsung models NP750XGJ, NP750XGL, NP754XGJ, NP754XFG, NP754XGK, DM500SGA, DM500TDA, DM500TGA, and DM501SGA. "The problem occurs on the affected devices when users perform common actions such as accessing files, launching applications, or performing administrative tasks," Microsoft explains. No other actions are needed to provoke the malfunction. In some cases, users cannot elevate their privileges, uninstall updates, or collect log files due to incorrect permissions.
Quick countermeasures: App removed from Microsoft Store
Microsoft states that the company has temporarily removed the offending Samsung Galaxy Connect app from the Microsoft Store to prevent further installations. Samsung has also released a stable previous version to prevent its occurrence on further devices. However, recovery options for already affected devices are limited. Samsung is currently evaluating countermeasures together with Microsoft Support. Affected users should contact Samsung for specific assistance.
Microsoft's problem report is unusual. In recent months, there have been many problems after installing the Windows updates for Patchdays, suggesting poor quality assurance. It is therefore an unexpected turn of events that the problem that has now arisen is not caused by the Windows updates at all.
(dmk)
