Microsoft Lifts Windows 11 Update Block As Oracle Releases VirtualBox Fix

Microsoft has removed an important upgrade block that should finally allow more users to upgrade to Windows 11. Last week, Microsoft updated the Windows health dashboard (via Bleeping Computer) to mention that the latest version of VirtualBox has finally removed the last Windows 11 safeguard hold, and users should update the app to version 6.1.28 or later.

“Oracle has resolved this issue in VirtualBox 6.1.28 and later. To remove the safeguard hold on your device, you will need to update to VirtualBox 6.1.28 or later. Please note, if there are no other safeguards that affect your device, it can take up to 48 hours before the update to Windows 11, version 21H2 is offered,” the company explained.

Back in October 2021, Microsoft had applied an upgrade block on all Windows 10 devices with
VirtualBox where the Hyper-V or Windows Hypervisor had been installed. This was caused by a compatibility issue between the app and the OS, as the bug could cause errors triggering startup problems on virtual machines. This issue has now been resolved and VirtualBox users should no longer experience any problems while upgrading to Windows 11.

Microsoft warns that some users may still be unable to upgrade to Windows 11

Even though the safeguard hold has been removed, keep in mind that it can take up to 48 hours before you can install Windows 11 on your PCs. It is also important to note that there are still some VirtualBox compatibility issues that may prevent users from upgrading their devices.

“If you do not have VirtualBox installed but are receiving this safeguard hold, you might have an application that is based on VirtualBox or which has bundled VirtualBox within their installation,” Microsoft noted.

Microsoft has provided a temporary workaround that should help to mitigate this problem. The company recommends users to update or uninstall all the applications (such as VirtualBox, Hyper-V, Windows Hypervisor) from their Windows PCs.