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Critical Windows 11 Bug: Secure Launch Issue Prevents Shutdown

A new Windows 11 bug is causing devices with System Guard Secure Launch enabled to restart instead of shutting down. Learn more about the issue and temporary workaround.
16 January 2026 by
TechStora Editorial Board

Windows 11 Secure Launch Bug: What You Need to Know

A recently discovered bug in Windows 11 is preventing devices with System Guard Secure Launch enabled from shutting down properly. Instead, affected devices are restarting.

Reason for the Issue: The problem is caused by the KB5073455 cumulative update, which is only offered for Enterprise and IoT editions of Windows 11, version 23H2. System Guard Secure Launch is a Windows security feature designed to protect the boot process from firmware-level attacks and malware.

Solution: Microsoft has provided a temporary workaround for affected users, which involves shutting down the device from the command prompt using the command shutdown /s /t 0. However, there is currently no workaround for systems configured to enter hibernation.

Microsoft is working on a permanent fix for the issue and has advised affected users to save their work and shut down their devices when finished to avoid running out of power instead of hibernating.