Microsoft’s KB5077181 update for Windows 11 is causing critical issues worldwide, with users reporting infinite boot loops, login failures, and complete loss of internet connectivity. As reported by Neowin, the problems began surfacing just days after the update’s release in January 2025.
Boot loops and login failures plague users
The most severe issue involves devices entering an infinite boot loop, restarting more than 15 times before reaching a broken login screen. Multiple users report their systems showing System Event Notification Service (SENS) errors that prevent successful login, with the error message indicating “a specified procedure couldn’t be found.”
This isn’t the first time Windows 11 updates have caused widespread problems. Previous updates have triggered shutdown bugs and gaming performance issues, forcing users to seek workarounds.
Internet connectivity completely lost
Beyond login problems, KB5077181 is also causing DHCP errors that completely disable internet access. Users report their devices connect to Wi-Fi networks but cannot access the internet, effectively cutting them off from online services and remote work capabilities.
Installation failures are also common, with error codes 0x800f0983 and 0x800f0991 appearing frequently. Some users have found success using the System File Checker tool (sfc /scannow) to resolve installation errors.
How to fix KB5077181 problems
Microsoft’s support team has provided specific instructions for affected users. According to guidance posted on Microsoft Learn Q&A, users should “uninstall KB5077181 from the affected machines using Control Panel > Programs and Features > View installed updates, or from recovery mode with `wusa /uninstall /kb:5077181 /quiet /norestart`. Once removed, the login loop and service error stop.”
Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Open Control Panel and navigate to Programs and Features
- Click “View installed updates” on the left sidebar
- Find KB5077181 in the list and click “Uninstall”
- Restart your computer when prompted
- Pause Windows updates temporarily to prevent reinstallation
Temporary solutions until Microsoft responds
Whilst uninstalling the update resolves immediate issues, Windows 11 may attempt to reinstall KB5077181 automatically. Users can pause updates temporarily through Windows Update settings, but this only provides a short-term solution.
These disruptions follow widespread issues after January’s Patch Tuesday releases, which required multiple follow-up updates to address user complaints. Microsoft has not yet officially acknowledged the KB5077181 problems on its Windows Release Health dashboard.
Until Microsoft releases an official fix, affected users should monitor the Windows Release Health dashboard for updates and keep the problematic update uninstalled to maintain system stability.
