Microsoft attempts to fix the various issues plaguing Windows 10, but the latest patch release only caused more problems in the system.
It's been tough going for Microsoft when it comes to Windows 10. Specifically, the patch caused issues in the search option of the Start menu and Taskbar.
The New Wave of Microsoft Problems
Microsoft released a patch called KB4515384 on Tuesday, Sept. 10, which was meant to address issues in Cortana and SearchUI functionality causing high CPU spikes and the Desktop Search to cease functioning properly.
Unfortunately, the patch proved to be an unreliable fix, with reports of the Windows 10 Start Menu failing to work properly. ExtremeTech says that two error messages, in particular, keep appearing: "We'll try to fix it next time you log in," or "Critical error — Your Start Menu isn't working."
The Windows Desktop Search has also been found glitching by providing blank results to users' searches. Additionally, auditory issues have been surfacing with audio either completely missing from games or greatly reduced.
Not all users have experienced the same issue, but there are those who found the problems very persistent.
According to Laptop Mag, Reddit users have been reporting audio problems on games such as Overwatch, Apex Legends, and PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds. One specific Reddit user recalled installing the latest update and suddenly finding the volume drop significantly until the sound nearly completely disappeared.
"I've reinstalled and updated all the necessary sound/headset drivers, both manually and also in Device Manager," the user wrote on Reddit. "I've tested and tried uninstalling some audio drivers, and it's still the same. The volume bar hasn't changed, it remains at 40 percent which I've always used, but the volume has gone very low."
How To Fix The New Problems
ExtremeTech noted that users can try fixing audio issues by reducing the Windows Audio format from 24 bit to 16 bit DVD quality. From the Control Panel, click on the Sound button then go to Speaker/Headphone properties. On the Advanced tab, choose the option for 16 bit.
However, as Laptop Mag explains, certain users do not want to sacrifice their sound quality. As a last resort, it's always possible to go back to an older version of Windows 10 and uninstall the patch updates.
"Microsoft has received reports that some users are having issues related to the Start menu and Windows Desktop Search," Microsoft said in a statement. "We are presently investigating and will provide an update when more information is available."
