This new Windows 11 update is breaking business Wi-Fi networks - here's how to fix

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Windows 11 December 2023 update just broke some Wi-Fi networks for businesses

Laptop running Windows 11
(Image credit: sdx15 / Shutterstock)

The latest security update for Windows 11 appears to have been breaking business Wi-Fi networks, causing major headaches for IT admins globally.

Windows Latest claims that several readers, working across universities and SMBs, have been experiencing slow Wi-Fi speeds or even total disconnection since updating to Windows 11 KB5033375.

It gets worse, because many have suggested that the problem occurred in the earlier (and optional) KB5032288 update, and has therefore carried over into the next build.

Windows 11 Wi-Fi issues

The publication has indicated that the problem may be limited to Qualcomm’s old wireless adapters, which are often used in public universities and other similar establishments. One Windows Latest reader specifically called out the Qualcomm QCA61x4a.

One IT worker at a Belgian university posted to the Microsoft forum that four students were experiencing the exact same issue following the optional KB5032288 update. A thread moderator commented that the KB5033375 had since been released, but this is also known to cause errors.

Another commented that they could reproduce the Wi-Fi problem on a WPA2 Enterprise SSID. In both cases, 802.11r was also being used – a standard designed to improve roaming experiences when connecting to different access points.

As such, disabling 802.11r has been seen to fix the issue, but with the clear consequence of poor roaming. Other IT workers have suggested removing the KB5033375 build, otherwise known as the Windows 11 December 2023 Update, however this comes with the sacrifice of several new features, including Copilot, Redmond’s generative AI tool.

[Update:] Microsoft confirmed that the issue was resolved one day later, on December 19. The company directed us to the Microsoft known issues and notifications page.

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Craig Hale
Craig Hale

With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!