Windows 11 is facing more problems with its latest update. Some users are now experiencing a bug that breaks sleep mode.
According to Windows Latest, after installing the January update (KB5074109), sleep mode no longer works for some Windows 11 users. This update was released a little over a week ago.
The issue affects the S3 sleep mode, which is the older type of sleep used by Windows. In this mode, the PC turns off the screen, processor, and fans, while the RAM stays active. Newer PCs do not use this sleep mode, so they are not affected.
One user explained that after installing the update, clicking Sleep makes the screen go black, but the PC does not fully shut down. The computer then freezes, and the only way to fix it is to force a restart by holding the power button. This happens every time sleep mode is used.
Many users have reported the same problem on Reddit and other forums. Some said the issue affects multiple PCs running different versions of Windows 11. When the January update is removed, sleep mode works again, but the problem returns after reinstalling the update. This confirms the bug is caused by KB5074109.
Analysis: insomniac computers
Because S3 sleep mode is only used on older PCs, most new computers—especially laptops—will not have this issue. Modern devices use a newer system called Modern Standby (S0). However, some desktop PCs from recent years may still use S3 sleep mode.
For users with older PCs, the only option may be to avoid sleep mode, which is not ideal. One possible workaround is to unplug any USB webcam connected to the PC. This has helped some users, but there are no other known fixes at the moment.
This sleep mode bug adds to other problems caused by the January update. These include Outlook freezing for some users, PCs failing to shut down, and issues with Remote Desktop Connections. Microsoft has already released emergency fixes for some of these problems, but not yet for the sleep mode bug.
Some users have also reported strange issues with their keyboard and mouse after installing the update. Overall, it has been a rough start to the year for Microsoft and Windows 11 users.
