On October 2, Microsoft released the Windows 10 October 2018 Update, which was due to include new features such as cloud clipboard, dark theme, search previews, Edge improvements, and a new screenshot tool.
However, the positives didn’t quite outweigh the negatives when the update started deleting files, leaving Microsoft to pull the update just four days later.
“We have paused the rollout of the Windows 10 October 2018 Update (version 1809)* for all users as we investigate isolated reports of users missing some files after updating,” said Microsoft on its support site.
This isn’t the first time this year that Microsoft has experienced issues with an update. They were forced to delay the April 2018 Windows 10 Update over Blue Screen of Death issues. However, it’s rare that they pulled it completely.
Users are looking to Microsoft for answers on how this went wrong, especially when they were warned about the bugs before shipping the updates. Testers reportedly submitted the bugs, which were ignored as low priority. Additionally, Microsoft rolled the update out in beta through the Windows Insider program where the same issues were flagged.
Now, Microsoft is re-releasing its Windows 10 October 2018 update to Windows Insiders after identifying and fixing all known issues in the update, and conducting internal validation, according to Microsoft Director of Program Management for Windows Servicing and Delivery, John Cable. Once they collect further feedback and make sure there are no more problems with the bug, they will release it to the public.
Since the bug was previously reported and the update went out regardless, Microsoft stated that it will be implementing changes to the feedback tool so that they can specify the priority of found bugs during beta. While we think any user-reported bugs should be taken seriously, hopefully, this will help avoid future issues when it comes to rolling out updates.
Microsoft found that the reason for the deleted files was a bug related to Known Folder Redirection, a feature that users can enable to move their folders. The code, which was introduced in the latest update, was supposed to delete empty and duplicate known folders, but it apparently had issues identifying which ones were the right candidates for deletion.
So, what’s one to do if they want to test the newest browsers and operating systems, like Windows 10 and Edge 18, without corrupting their computer with an update? As Windows tries the new rollout with Insiders, how can users safely access what they need until the conflict is officially resolved?
While many Windows Insiders have been quick to install the October update, CrossBrowserTesting users had the advantage of simply accessing Edge 18 and Windows 10 in the cloud, without compromising important files. This means no updating your operating system or browser, and no losing your files, because sometimes it’s better to be safe than sorry with new software.
For those who simply wanted to experience the new features that were expected to come with the OS update — what do you do if you’ve already updated and are missing files?
Microsoft says if you were one of the rare cases that did suffer from file deletion, you can bring your computer to Microsoft Support, and they should be able to recover lost data. Otherwise, Microsoft suggests you minimize your use of the device. Good luck with that.
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