A recent Windows 11 update, officially known as KB5026372, has resulted in a troublesome experience for many VPN users. While the update aimed to provide enhancements to the 22H2 version of the operating system, customers have reported significant drops in VPN speeds, particularly when using L2TP/IPsec connections.
Beyond the VPN service issues, additional problems have been reported by users, prompting Microsoft to investigate the matter further. A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed that the company is aware of the issue and actively working on a resolution.
Users who have installed the update have expressed frustration over noticeably slower download and upload speeds. One Reddit user described the L2TP/IPsec connection as crawling “to a snail’s pace” and becoming practically unusable. This type of VPN connection is widely used by businesses, making the speed issues particularly troublesome for customers.
KB5026372 Update breaks MS L2TP VPN Client
by u/lsausreddit in Windows11
It is worth noting that these VPN speed drops appear to be limited to Wi-Fi connections, as reported by BleepingComputer. However, Windows 11 KB5026372 presents additional problems beyond VPN performance, including automatic device shutdown instead of restarting, BitLocker activation leading to potential system resets, and the resurgence of previously fixed security bugs in the Windows Security app.
Currently, the recommended solution for affected users is to uninstall the problematic update. This can be done by accessing the Windows Update settings, navigating to the update history, selecting the KB5026372 update, and uninstalling it. However, it’s important to be aware that removing the update means losing the security improvements it brought.
As Microsoft works on resolving these issues, VPN users are advised to monitor official announcements and updates from the company regarding a potential fix. In the meantime, rolling back the update may offer a temporary solution for those experiencing connectivity problems with their VPN services on Windows 11.
