Why Does Windows 11 24H2 Break Azure Virtual Desktop App Attach and How Can You Fix This Critical Issue?

Is Your Azure Virtual Desktop App Attach Failing After Windows 11 24H2 Update - What's the Solution?

I need to share something important with you. If you're running Azure Virtual Desktop and recently moved to Windows 11 24H2, you might face a serious problem. Your App Attach feature could stop working completely.

This isn't just a small glitch. It's a real issue that can disrupt your entire virtual desktop setup.

What Exactly Is Happening?

Microsoft confirmed this problem on July 1, 2025. They posted about it in their Release Health dashboard. Here's what I've seen happening:

When you try to start apps through App Attach, you get error messages. The most common one says "Element not found." Your apps simply won't launch.

This problem only hits Windows 11 24H2 systems. Older versions work fine. But if you upgraded, you're likely affected.

Understanding App Attach Technology

Let me explain what App Attach does. It's pretty clever, actually.

App Attach lets you add apps to user sessions without installing them directly on the computer. The apps live in special packages. When someone needs an app, the system attaches it to their session. Simple.

This saves space. It makes management easier. You don't need to install every app on every machine.

But here's the catch. The problem only affects apps packaged in CIMFS format. CIMFS stands for Composite Image File System. It's Microsoft's way of managing app images in Azure Virtual Desktop.

The Root Cause

I've dug into this issue. The problem stems from how Windows 11 24H2 handles CIMFS packages. Something changed in the new version. The system can't properly read these packages anymore.

This creates a compatibility gap. Your CIMFS-packaged apps become unreachable. The system knows they exist but can't access them.

Microsoft's Fix Strategy

Microsoft developed a solution. They're rolling it out in phases. Smart approach, actually.

The fix comes through update KB5060829. Microsoft released this on June 26, 2025. If you install this update or newer ones, the problem should disappear.

Here's what Microsoft recommends:

• Install the latest updates immediately
• Check that KB5060829 or newer is installed
• Test your App Attach applications after updating
• Monitor for any remaining issues

Immediate Workaround Solutions

Can't wait for the update? I have a solution for you.

Switch from CIMFS to VHDX format. VHDX stands for Virtual Hard Disk v2. It's an older format, but it works perfectly with Windows 11 24H2.

Here's how this helps:

1. VHDX packages aren't affected by the bug
2. You can repackage your apps quickly
3. Performance remains good
4. No functionality loss occurs

Step-by-Step Recovery Process

If you're dealing with this problem right now, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check your current Windows version

1. Open Settings
2. Go to System > About
3. Look for version 24H2

Step 2: Verify your update status

1. Check Windows Update
2. Look for KB5060829 or newer
3. Install if available

Step 3: Test your App Attach applications

1. Try launching affected apps
2. Note any error messages
3. Document which apps fail

Step 4: Consider VHDX conversion

1. Identify CIMFS-packaged apps
2. Plan conversion timeline
3. Test thoroughly after conversion

Prevention and Future Planning

This situation teaches us something important. Always test major Windows updates in a lab environment first. Don't rush into production deployments.

I recommend creating a testing schedule. Update a few machines first. Run your critical apps. Watch for problems. Only then roll out widely.

Also, maintain both CIMFS and VHDX packaging capabilities. Having options gives you flexibility when problems arise.

What This Means for Your Organization

This issue can seriously impact productivity. Users can't access their apps. Work stops. Frustration builds.

But the fix is straightforward. Microsoft provided a clear solution path. The temporary workaround works well too.

Plan your response carefully. Communicate with users. Set expectations. Most importantly, test the fix thoroughly before wide deployment.

The good news? This problem has a definite solution. Microsoft acknowledged it quickly. They provided both immediate workarounds and permanent fixes. That's exactly what we need when critical systems break.