System Administrators Face Update-Induced Challenges
System administrators around the world have been grappling with a severe issue that emerged following a recent security update for Windows Server. The update, identified as OS Build 20348.2340 (KB5035857) and released on March 12, induced a critical memory leak that has led to widespread crashes of Windows domain controllers. This development has caused significant disruptions, as domain controllers are crucial for managing user and computer authentication within a Windows domain.
Reports of the problem began to surface shortly after the update was deployed, with numerous system administrators noting an unexpected increase in memory consumption by the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS) process. This anomaly would eventually cause the server to freeze and unexpectedly reboot, compromising the stability and reliability of IT infrastructures. The affected versions include Windows Server 2022, 2019, 2016, and 2012 R2, indicating a broad impact across different enterprise environments.
Microsoft’s Response and User Implications
Microsoft has acknowledged a defect within the KB5035857 update, which has generated significant discussion across multiple online forums, notably on Reddit. The tech giant has confirmed the issue on the update’s webpage and is actively developing a fix. However, no immediate workaround has been provided by Microsoft, leaving administrators with the sole option of uninstalling the update to regain server functionality.
This is not the first instance of LSASS-related issues following updates, with similar problems reported in December 2022 and March 2022, indicating a recurring challenge with update-induced LSASS instability. Despite these setbacks, Microsoft is focused on delivering a prompt resolution and maintaining communication with users regarding progress. The company’s history in this area suggests the importance of efficient issue recognition and remediation. Administrators, for now, must monitor Microsoft’s announcements for the release of a solution to the current LSASS memory leak problem.
