Windows 10 update has a major problem but there is a fix

Windows 10

It appears the Windows 10 October 2018 update is at fault for an unexpected problem (Image: Microsoft • Getty)

Windows 10 October 2018 Update brings a host of new functionality for fans of Microsoft’s software to get excited about.

After announcing the upgrade was available for all fans at its recent hardware event in New York City, the American tech company explained the rollout would be “phased and controlled”.

Microsoft said: “As with prior Windows 10 feature rollouts, our goal is to deliver the October 2018 Update in a phased and controlled rollout to provide a great update experience for all.

“We are beginning the global rollout out via Windows Update in the coming weeks. As with previous rollouts, we will use real-time feedback and telemetry to update your device when data shows your device is ready and will have a great experience.

“You don’t have to do anything to get the update; it will roll out automatically to you through Windows Update.”

However, Windows 10 fans that are eager to upgrade their devices can download the Windows 10 October 2018 Update manually through their system settings.

Explaining the process, Microsoft stated: “While we encourage you to wait until the update is offered to your device, if you’re an advanced user on an actively serviced version of Windows 10 and would like to install the Windows 10 October 2018 Update now, you can do so by manually checking for updates.

“In the Search box in the taskbar, type ‘Check for updates’. Once there, simply click ‘Check for updates’ to begin the download and installation process.”

The Windows 10 October 2018 Update delivers a host of new features.

One of the most notable is the “new clipboard experience” that will take advantage of cloud computing to make the actions of copy and paste more seamless than ever.

And the File Explorer application has also received a new Dark Mode – such an addition was labelled by Microsoft as being a “top request” from its huge user base.

But it appears the Windows 10 October 2018 update is at fault for an unexpected problem.

A thread on Microsoft’s Windows 10 forum describes an issue from a user who claimed they were unable to connect to the internet using Microsoft Edge after installing the upgrade.

They added applications downloaded from the Microsoft Store were also unable to take advantage of online functionality.

The user noted: “After installing the Windows 10 October 2018 update (version 1809), Microsoft Store apps are no longer able to connect to the Internet.

“For example, Microsoft Edge is unable to connect to any websites, displaying the message, ‘Hmmm…can’t reach this page’.

“Apps like Mail, Calendar, and News are not working properly. And the Microsoft Store says to check my connection.

“Non-Store apps, such as Internet Explorer, are still able to connect to the internet.”

A Microsoft employee responded and provided a claimed solution for the issue.

They explained users would have to enable Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) on their device.

IPv6 is essentially a communications tool for identifying and locating computers on a network.

The staff member explained: “Microsoft is aware of an issue after installing the Windows 10 October 2018 update (version 1809) that prevents Microsoft Store apps from connecting to the Internet on devices that have disabled IPv6.

“Microsoft is working on a solution that is planned to be released in a future Windows update. In the meantime, you can resolve this problem by enabling IPv6.”

The employee then described how to perform the function to correct the issue.

Windows 10 October 2018 Update

Windows 10 October 2018 Update brings a host of new functionality for fans (Image: Microsoft)

They went on: “Open the Settings app and select Networking & Internet > Network and Sharing Centre.

“Select the network adapter you’re using (by clicking the appropriate link next to ‘Connections’) and select Properties.

“On the Networking tab, select the checkbox next to Internet Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).

“Select OK to save your changes.”

Windows 10 October 2018 Update

Microsoft recently showed off a range of new Surface hardware (Image: Microsoft)

Although Microsoft claimed it was working on an update for the problem, no release date for it was given.

In addition to launching the Windows 10 October 2018 Update, the American tech firm also showed off a score of new Surface hardware at its recent event in New York City.

Surface Laptop 2, Surface Pro 6, Surface Studio 2 and Surface Headphones were all revealed.