Microsoft has issued a warning to Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) users about potential black screen issues that can last up to 30 minutes during login sessions. The issue affects users who installed the Windows 10 July 2024 preview update (KB5040525) and primarily targets enterprise environments where AVD is commonly used. According to Microsoft, the problem stems from a deadlock between the Azure Active Directory (AAD) broker, the AppX Deployment Service (AppxSvc), and the Background Tasks Infrastructure Service, causing an extended black screen experience during the login process.
In addition to the black screen problem, users may experience other issues, including single sign-on (SSO) failures in Office applications such as Outlook and Teams. These failures can prevent users from connecting to backend services or syncing data, leading to disrupted workflows. Interestingly, while Office apps may lose network connectivity due to this issue, other applications, including Microsoft Edge, retain access to the internet and local networks. This connectivity anomaly adds a layer of complexity to the troubleshooting process.
Microsoft emphasized that this latest black screen issue is distinct from a similar AppX Deployment Service-related black screen problem that was resolved with a previous Windows update (KB5045594) in October 2024. This time, the issue appears more likely to impact environments using FSLogix user profile containers, which are commonly deployed in virtual desktop settings to improve user profile management in remote desktop sessions. However, Microsoft noted that users of Windows 10 Home, Pro, and Education editions are unlikely to encounter this problem, as AVD is mainly used in enterprise and virtualized settings.
Azure Virtual Desktop, originally launched in 2018 as Windows Virtual Desktop and rebranded in 2021, allows organizations to deliver Windows desktops and applications over the internet to various devices. Since its rebranding, AVD has introduced additional security features and flexible pricing for remote app streaming, enhancing its appeal for enterprises seeking scalable, cloud-based desktop solutions. Microsoft’s ongoing updates aim to refine the service further, but this latest issue underscores the complexities and challenges in maintaining seamless virtual desktop experiences across diverse enterprise environments.
Reference:
