Windows 11 24H2 upgrades now blocked for some AutoCAD users

Microsoft has introduced a new Windows 11 24H2 upgrade block for systems with AutoCAD 2022, addressing compatibility issues that prevent the program from launching.

According to Redmond, this known issue affects all AutoCAD 2022 versions, but other AutoCAD releases are unaffected.

"After installing Windows 11, version 24H2, all versions of Autodesk AutoCAD 2022 might not open on some devices. Users have reported encountering an error when launching the application," Microsoft says in a Windows release health update.

"All other versions of AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT are working as expected, such as AutoCAD 2023, 2024, and 2025, and will not prevent devices from installing Windows 11, version 24H2."

To prevent the issue on impacted Windows 11 24H2 PCs, the company has added a compatibility hold that will block the Windows 11 2024 Update from being offered via the Windows Update.

IT admins can find this known issue under "safeguard ID: 56211213" in Windows Update for Business reports to check if their organizations' endpoints are affected. ​The company also advised affected users not to manually update impacted PCs using the Media Creation Tool or the Windows 11 Installation Assistant until the known issue is resolved.

If you're using Windows Home or Pro editions, you can also check for safeguard holds by going to Start > Settings > Windows Update and selecting "Check for Windows updates."

If your device has a compatibility hold that blocks upgrades, you'll see an "Upgrade to Windows 11 is on its way to your device. There is nothing that requires your attention at the moment." message and a "Learn More" link that will direct you to a web page with more information on PC safeguards. You can also check the KB5006965 support document for more details on safeguard holds.

Last week, Microsoft lifted another compatibility hold blocking Windows 11 24H2 upgrades after releasing a BIOS update that fixed blue screen issues on ASUS devices with very specific hardware components.

Other upgrade blocks prompted by incompatible configurations or software have also been applied to devices with Dirac audio improvement software, Asphalt 8 (Airborne), integrated cameras, or the Easy Anti-Cheat and Safe Exam Browser applications.