Microsoft's latest Windows 11 update KB5060829 has triggered widespread reports of firewall errors appearing as Event ID 2042 in system logs, leaving many users scrambling for solutions. The issue manifests as repeated "Config Read Failed" warnings in the Windows Security event log, raising concerns about potential security vulnerabilities and system instability.

Understanding the KB5060829 Firewall Error

The problematic update, released as part of Microsoft's November 2023 Patch Tuesday cycle, primarily addressed security vulnerabilities and performance improvements. However, numerous users began reporting the following error shortly after installation:

Event ID: 2042
Source: Microsoft-Windows-Windows Firewall With Advanced Security
Description: Windows Firewall failed when reading the configuration. Config Read Failed.

Symptoms and Impact

Users experiencing this issue may notice:

  • Frequent Event Viewer warnings (every 5-15 minutes)
  • No apparent loss of firewall functionality
  • Increased system log clutter
  • Potential performance impact on systems with limited resources

While the error appears alarming, Microsoft has confirmed the firewall continues to operate normally despite these log entries. The issue stems from a configuration read timing problem rather than an actual failure of firewall protection.

Verified Workarounds and Solutions

Method 1: Registry Edit (Temporary Fix)

  1. Press Win+R, type regedit, and press Enter
  2. Navigate to:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\SharedAccess\Parameters\FirewallPolicy
  3. Right-click the FirewallPolicy key and select Permissions
  4. Click Advanced, then Change next to the Owner field
  5. Enter Administrators and click Check Names, then OK
  6. Check "Replace owner on subcontainers and objects"
  7. Click Apply, then OK
  8. Grant Full Control to Administrators group
  9. Restart your computer

Method 2: PowerShell Command

Run the following command in an elevated PowerShell window:

Restore-NetFirewallRule -All -PolicyStore ActiveStore

Method 3: Complete Firewall Reset

For a more thorough solution:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
  2. Run: netsh advfirewall reset
  3. Restart your computer

Microsoft's Official Response

Microsoft has acknowledged the issue in a support document, stating:

"We're aware of reports regarding Event ID 2042 appearing after installing KB5060829. While the events indicate configuration read failures, the Windows Firewall continues to provide full protection. A fix is being developed for a future update."

Preventive Measures for Future Updates

To avoid similar issues:

  • Create system restore points before installing updates
  • Review update release notes for known issues
  • Consider delaying non-security updates by a few days
  • Monitor the Windows Release Health dashboard

When to Seek Professional Help

While most users can safely implement the workarounds, consider contacting Microsoft Support if:

  • The errors persist after applying fixes
  • You experience actual firewall functionality loss
  • The system becomes unstable

Long-Term Outlook

Microsoft typically addresses such issues within 1-2 update cycles. Users can expect a permanent fix in either:

  • The December 2023 Patch Tuesday update
  • An out-of-band emergency update if deemed critical

In the meantime, the workarounds provide effective mitigation without compromising system security.