Microsoft resolves date and time bug in Windows 11

Microsoft has presented a solution for the stubborn date and time bug in Windows 11 24H2. The update fixes a problem that made users change the time zone without administrator rights.

Time zone change again for everyone

Windows 11 users can breathe a sigh of relief: Microsoft has fixed a long-lasting mistake in the date and time setting. The problem that existed since the introduction of Windows 11 version 24H2 prevented users from changing their time zone in the Windows settings without administrator rights. The error only affected the date and clockwise view in the Windows setting app and had no impact on permissions or other system settings. Administrators were not affected by the problem, so they could continue to make changes.

Optional update brings the solution

According to the Windows-Release-Health dashboard the solution was introduced with the optional update KB5050094 of January 28, 2025. The remedy is only gradually rolled out with the optional update, but will be available for all users as part of the regular Windows updates for Patch-Day February. Microsoft recommends installing the latest update, as it contains important improvements in addition to the error repair. There is also a temporary solution that mitigates the problem around the time zones. For users who have not yet installed the optional Windows update, there is an alternative transition solution. The time zone can still be changed via the classic Windows control control. There are two options:

• Open the start menu, search for “Control Panel” and select the top result. In the control control you can then search for “change time zone”.
• Alternatively, you can open the executing dialog box with the key combination Windows key + R and enter “Timedate.cpl”. In both cases, you will get to the date and time setting, where you can adjust the time zone.

However, it is significant that Microsoft took several months to fix this seemingly simple mistake. The situation is similar with another bug in the update experience, which the group has now simply marked as resolved, even though it was not really fixed.

Outlook for future updates

With the next Patch Rage on February 11, 2025, error correction will be available for all Windows 11 24H2 users.