Microsoft and Phison Refute SSD Failure Claims After Windows 11 Update

Key Takeaways

1. SSD malfunctions linked to recent Windows 11 update have raised concerns for Microsoft and Phison.
2. Phison conducted over 4,500 hours of testing but could not replicate the SSD failure issue.
3. Microsoft found “no connection” between the SSD failures and the August 2025 Windows 11 security update.
4. Initial complaints primarily came from users in Japan, with some reports from other countries.
5. Phison recommends using a heatsink or thermal pad on SSDs to prevent overheating during demanding tasks.

The latest news regarding SSD malfunctions tied to the most recent Windows 11 update has caught the eye of both Microsoft and Phison. For those who might not know, several users have experienced issues where their drives became unreachable while trying to perform large, continuous file transfers.

Update from Phison

Phison, the manufacturer of SSD controllers, recently provided an update on this situation. The company stated that they couldn’t recreate the problem, after more than 4,500 hours of testing combined. This evaluation included conducting 2,200 test cycles across various drives.

Microsoft’s Findings

Microsoft has shared a similar update regarding the situation. They reported that they found “no connection” between the SSD failures and the Windows 11 security update from August 2025. The conclusions drawn by both companies are not unexpected, considering the issue wasn’t as prevalent as some other Windows-related problems that have occurred in the past.

Regional Reports

It is important to note that the initial complaints originated from users in Japan. As pointed out by @Necoru_cat on X, the Japanese version has been updated since these reports surfaced. This might suggest that the SSD failure issue is primarily affecting the Japanese version of Windows 11, although some users from other countries have also reported similar problems.

Phison, however, has not completely disregarded the issue. The company mentioned that they will “closely monitor the situation.” Furthermore, they advise users to install a heatsink or thermal pad on their SSDs when handling demanding tasks (2 TB Samsung 990 Pro with heatsink curr. $169.99 on Amazon). This measure could help maintain performance and reduce the risks of overheating and related malfunctions.

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