Windows Server 2025 Update Causes Remote Desktop Freezing Issues
A recent Windows Server 2025 security update, released on February 11, 2025 (KB5051987), has caused a significant issue for users relying on Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP).
The update, part of Microsoft’s February Patch Tuesday, is leading to RDP sessions freezing shortly after connection, making mouse and keyboard inputs unresponsive.
Affected Systems and Symptoms
Microsoft has confirmed the issue, which impacts both:
- Windows Server 2025
- Windows 11 version 24H2
Users report that after installing KB5051987, their RDP sessions freeze within moments of connecting, forcing them to repeatedly disconnect and reconnect.
Common issues include:
- Sessions freezing at the login screen or during active use
- Users needing multiple reconnections to establish a stable session
- Increased frustration in environments that rely heavily on RDP
This issue is particularly disruptive for IT administrators and organizations that depend on remote access for daily operations.
Microsoft has acknowledged the issue and provided a partial fix for Windows 11 version 24H2 through an optional preview update (KB5052093), released on February 25, 2025.
However, a fix for Windows Server 2025 is still pending, with no official timeline announced.
Temporary Workarounds
Until Microsoft releases a permanent solution, affected users are advised to:
- Disconnect and reconnect when an RDP session freezes.
- Modify Group Policy settings related to RDP network detection, specifically:
- Enable “Select network detection on the server” under Remote Desktop Session Host settings.
Broader RDP Issues
This issue is not isolated, as recent updates have caused similar RDP-related problems, including:
- Disconnections lasting up to 65 seconds when using UDP-based connections from Windows 11 version 24H2 to older servers.
- USB printer and network share issues introduced by previous updates.
Microsoft has addressed some of these problems using Known Issue Rollback (KIR) but continues working on permanent fixes.
The freezing issue has sparked frustration among IT professionals and end-users, with online forums flooded with complaints. Some users have resorted to uninstalling the update or rolling back their systems to restore functionality.
Until a permanent fix is released, organizations should:
- Monitor Microsoft’s update releases for new patches.
- Delay non-essential updates in environments where RDP is mission-critical.
Microsoft has assured users that a resolution is on the way, but for now, caution is advised before applying updates that may disrupt remote work environments.
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