Error at the end of windows update, should I be worried?

Experiencing a system service exception error during a Windows update can be concerning, but it doesn't always indicate a serious problem. Since the update appears to have installed successfully after the restart, you may not need to worry immediately. However, the fact that the Microsoft Defender Antivirus Service terminated unexpectedly could point to a potential issue that might need attention.

Here are a few steps you can take to ensure everything is functioning properly:

1. Check for Additional Updates: Sometimes, subsequent updates are released to address issues found in previous updates. Make sure your system is fully updated.
2. Review Event Viewer Logs: Continue to monitor the Event Viewer for any recurring errors related to the Microsoft Defender service or other system components. This can help you identify if the problem persists.
3. Run Windows Troubleshooter: Use the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter to check for any issues with the update process.
4. Check Microsoft Defender: Ensure that Microsoft Defender is functioning correctly. You can run a quick scan to verify that it is operational.
5. Contact Support if Necessary: If you continue to encounter issues or if the service termination happens frequently, consider reaching out to Microsoft support for further assistance.

Overall, while the error is not ideal, it may not be a cause for immediate alarm if your system is functioning normally after the update.

References:

• Troubleshoot Windows Update error 0x8024001E

Hi Rachel, it sounds like the update completed but your system hit a hiccup during the final stage. A System Service Exception usually points to a driver or system service crashing, and in your case, the event log shows Microsoft Defender’s service stopped unexpectedly and then restarted. That’s often a temporary issue during updates when services are being reloaded, so if everything is running fine now and Defender is active, it’s likely not serious. To be safe, I’d suggest checking Windows Update history to confirm KB5072033 shows as successfully installed, then run a quick scan in Defender to make sure it’s working. If you notice any recurring crashes or blue screens, let me know.