Windows update introduces VPN issue, forcing admins to pick between security and functionality

In case y'all missed information technology, January 2022's Patch Tuesday came and went, bringing with it fresh updates for Windows eleven and Windows 10. But while the updates helped alleviate Windows of numerous vulnerabilities, they've too had the unforeseen consequence of borking some PC users' VPN connections.

Windows admins over on Reddit are reporting the issue affects SonicWall and WatchGuard connections, among others (via BleepingComputer). The message users go hit with when attempting connections reads "the L2TP connection attempt failed because the security layer encountered a processing error during initial negotiations with the remote calculator."

It's worth noting this unintended side effect of Patch Tuesday isn't affecting all VPN users. Rather, it'southward seeming to hit those using Windows' congenital-in VPN client.

The fix, for the fourth dimension being, is straightforward, though it doesn't come up from Microsoft. Information technology'south the simple strategy of uninstalling KB5009543 and KB5008876 and living without their security updates until patches come along that don't mess with VPN connections. You can uninstall the updates with an elevated command prompt. There'south also a PowerShell method.

Some users are reporting bug with uninstalling the updates, maxim Windows won't allow them or that the updates are automatically reapplied after they're initially uninstalled.

For those who've all the same to download the cumulative updates merely fright for their VPN connections' stability, the question boils down to whether you desire to live without the cumulative updates' numerous vulnerability fixes until Microsoft takes official activeness.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:

1. Accessing a service from another country (subject field to the terms and conditions of that service).
2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.

We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious employ of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Hereafter Publishing.

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