Microsoft’s HTTP/2 Meltdown: How to Fix the Localhost Connection Fiasco!

Hot Take:

Well, it seems like Microsoft’s Windows updates are at it again—proving once more that the only thing more complex than quantum physics is trying to connect to localhost after a security patch. Who knew accessing your own computer could be such a Herculean task?

Key Points:

• Microsoft fixed a bug affecting HTTP/2 connections to localhost (127.0.0.1) and IIS websites.
• Problem arose post-installation of Windows 11 KB5066835 and the September KB5065789 updates.
• Users experienced “ERR_CONNECTION_RESET” or “ERR_HTTP2_PROTOCOL_ERROR” messages.
• Issue resolved automatically via Known Issue Rollback (KIR) for most home users and non-managed devices.
• Permanent fix anticipated in a future Windows update.

Bugged Updates: A Tale of Two Errors

Let’s face it, Windows updates have a talent for creating drama worthy of a daytime soap opera. In this latest episode, users who just wanted to connect to localhost (127.0.0.1) found themselves facing cryptic error messages like “ERR_CONNECTION_RESET” and “ERR_HTTP2_PROTOCOL_ERROR.” It’s almost like Windows was trying to say, “You shall not pass!” But fret not, dear users, Microsoft is on the case and has assured us that the villain has been vanquished—at least for now.

The Bug and the Beast

For those who love a bit of technical jargon to spice up their day, the bug was traced back to the HTTP.sys Windows-based web server for ASP.NET Core. This pesky bug was like that one mosquito at a barbecue—annoying and hard to get rid of. It was triggered by a mix of conditions involving device restarts, update installations, and internet connectivity. Basically, it was the perfect storm of digital chaos. But Microsoft has swooped in like a superhero, offering a detailed three-step rescue plan that involves—wait for it—checking for updates, installing said updates, and restarting the device. Who knew it was that simple?

Rollback Blues

For those who prefer automatic solutions (because who doesn’t love automation?), Microsoft rolled out the Known Issue Rollback (KIR) to save the day. This magical feature automatically reverses the troublesome updates for non-managed business devices and most home users. It’s like hitting the undo button on a bad haircut. But for enterprise-managed devices, IT admins have to roll up their sleeves and dive into the group policy configuration pool. It’s a bit like being handed an Ikea flat-pack with no instructions—but hey, challenge accepted, right?

A Fix in the Future

In the grand tradition of software development, Microsoft promises that a permanent fix is on the horizon. No more group policies or temporary workarounds—just smooth sailing on the sea of localhost connections. Until then, organizations can either embrace the workaround or adopt a zen-like patience, trusting in the promise of an update yet to come. After all, good things come to those who wait, or in this case, those who endure the occasional tech hiccup.

The Moral of the Story

So, what have we learned from this adventurous tale of HTTP/2 troubles? For starters, that localhost connections are not to be underestimated. And secondly, that Microsoft updates are like a box of chocolates—you never know what you’re gonna get. But with a bit of troubleshooting and a dash of patience, there’s always a way to keep the digital world spinning. Until next time, happy updating!