Overview
KB5036960, released on April 9, 2024, is a Monthly Rollup update for Windows Server 2012 R2 and Windows 8.1. This update is part of Microsoft's Extended Security Update (ESU) program, which provides critical security updates for systems that have reached their end of support. Windows 8.1 reached its end of support on January 10, 2023, and Windows Server 2012 R2 reached its end of support on October 10, 2023. The ESU program for Windows Server 2012 R2 will continue until October 13, 2026, allowing organizations to maintain security compliance while transitioning to newer systems.
This cumulative update includes various improvements, notably addressing daylight saving time changes for regions such as Samoa, Kazakhstan, and Palestine. It also encompasses security enhancements that were part of the previous update, KB5035885, released in March 2024. Users are encouraged to install the latest servicing stack update (SSU) prior to applying this Monthly Rollup to ensure a smooth installation process.
General Purpose
The primary purpose of KB5036960 is to provide essential security updates and improvements for Windows Server 2012 R2 and Windows 8.1. This update includes critical fixes for vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited by attackers. Additionally, it addresses specific improvements related to daylight saving time adjustments, ensuring that systems reflect accurate time changes in affected regions. The update is crucial for organizations still operating on these platforms, as it helps mitigate security risks associated with outdated software. Users are advised to ensure their systems meet the necessary requirements for the ESU program to continue receiving these updates.
General Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding KB5036960 appears to be mixed. While the update is essential for maintaining security on legacy systems, users have reported some significant issues post-installation. Notably, there have been complaints regarding increased NTLM authentication traffic on domain controllers, which could impact performance in environments with limited primary domain controllers. Additionally, some users have experienced VPN connection failures after applying the update. These issues are acknowledged by Microsoft, with resolutions expected in a subsequent update (KB5037823) scheduled for release after May 14, 2024. Despite these concerns, the necessity of the update for security compliance cannot be understated, leading to a cautious but necessary approach to installation.
Known Issues
- Increased NTLM authentication traffic on domain controllers, particularly affecting environments with few primary domain controllers and high NTLM traffic.
- VPN connection failures reported after installation of the update.
- Both issues are expected to be resolved in the upcoming update KB5037823, scheduled for release after May 14, 2024.
Disclaimer: We take measures to ensure that AI-generated content is of the highest possible quality, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend that users do their own independent research. Generated on 2024-12-22 01:28 AM