Windows 11 24H2 February 2025 Update Slowing Down Intel Core Ultra CPUs

Windows 11 February 2025 Update: Performance Issues and Fixes You Need to Know

Windows 11 24H2 is causing headaches for some users, especially those with Intel Core Ultra 200 CPUs. Let me tell you about Rüdiger, who built a new system with top-tier hardware but ran into frustrating performance issues. His story highlights problems others might face and sheds light on potential fixes.

Rüdiger’s Setup and the Problem

Rüdiger’s system included:

• CPU: Intel Core Ultra 9 285K
• Motherboard: ASRock Z890 Pro RS
• RAM: 256GB (4x64GB)

To get Windows 11 running, he had to use the latest beta BIOS (MCU 116). This BIOS update was supposed to address memory configuration issues but introduced a new problem—massive performance throttling.

The Performance Throttling Issue

Here’s what happens:

• When apps like 7zip or Prime95 run in the foreground, they perform as expected.
• The moment these apps lose focus or are minimized, performance tanks. The CPU clock speed drops drastically, cutting processing power in half.

Rüdiger even tested this on multiple systems and confirmed the issue was specific to Intel Core Ultra CPUs running Windows 11 24H2.

Attempts to Fix It

• Distributing workloads across all CPU cores didn’t help.
• Activating the “Maximum Performance” energy-saving plan worked but isn’t ideal for everyday use.

Interestingly, this issue doesn’t affect AMD Ryzen CPUs or older Intel models like the i9-12900K.

USB Sound Card Glitch

Another problem involves USB sound cards going into power-saving mode after upgrading to Windows 11 24H2. When waking up, they take 10–15 seconds to output sound after a pause—something that wasn’t an issue in previous versions.

Side Effects of February 2025 Update

The February security update brought its own set of troubles:

Core Isolation Option Missing

Users noticed that security settings like Core Isolation disappeared from the Control Panel.

Driver Installation Issues

Signed drivers for Lenovo BIOS updates and older USB sound devices failed to install unless the update was removed.

Removing the February update temporarily resolves these driver issues but leaves systems vulnerable to security risks.

What Can You Do?

If you’re experiencing similar problems, here are some steps to consider:

Solution 1: Check for BIOS Updates

Ensure your motherboard has the latest firmware.

Solution 2: Enable Maximum Performance Mode

It’s not perfect but can prevent throttling.

Solution 3: Roll Back Updates

If drivers stop working, uninstall the February update as a last resort.

Solution 4: Report Issues

Share your experience with Microsoft or hardware manufacturers—they need user feedback to fix these bugs.

Windows updates are supposed to improve systems, not break them. But as Rüdiger’s case shows, even high-end setups can run into trouble. If you’re struggling with similar issues, don’t hesitate to explore workarounds or reach out for support.