The December 2025 Windows 10 update is breaking the Message Queuing (MSMQ) service for businesses across Seattle and Tacoma. If your MSMQ-dependent apps stopped working after the latest update, Microsoft knows about it and they're working on it.

You might see this error:

Error Code: MSMQ Insufficient resources to perform operation

The problem comes from Windows 10 update KB5071546, an Extended Security Update (ESU). This update breaks MSMQ's security settings and NTS (NT Security) permissions, making the service fail when it tries to get resources.

Current Status: Workaround

Microsoft hasn't released a patch yet. Here's how to get things working again until they fix it properly. We'll update this post when Microsoft releases a permanent solution.

Why This Error Happens

MSMQ lets applications talk to each other across different servers or time periods. Many business systems use it for reliable messaging. The KB5071546 update changed some security pieces that MSMQ needs for checking permissions. When MSMQ tries to run under these new, broken security settings, it fails with a resource error. The problem isn't your memory or disk space, it's just the software not playing nice.

Workaround: Uninstall the Problematic Update

The fastest fix right now is removing KB5071546. This puts things back how they were. Try this if you absolutely need MSMQ working.

Important: Taking out a security update could leave your system open to attacks. Only do this if you really need MSMQ and have good firewall protection. Install the fixed version as soon as Microsoft releases it.

Step-by-Step Uninstall Instructions

  • Open Windows Settings (Windows Key + I).
  • Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Click View update history.
  • Click Uninstall updates. This opens the classic Control Panel applet.
  • In the list of installed updates, locate Security Update for Microsoft Windows (KB5071546).
  • Select it and click Uninstall.
  • Follow the prompts and restart your computer when required.

After restarting, MSMQ should work again.

If you manage lots of computers, you can automate this with group policy or management tools. Check our PowerShell scripts for network-wide fixes.

Monitoring and Next Steps

We're watching this issue closely. Microsoft will probably release a new update to replace KB5071546 soon. Don't try to reinstall KB5071546. Just wait for Windows Update to bring in the fixed version. For more help with system problems, see our Windows fixes.

Testing updates before rolling them out widely helps prevent these kinds of problems. A good managed IT services partner can test updates first to keep your systems running smoothly.

Need more help with MSMQ or other system problems? Our teams provide Seattle IT support and Tacoma IT support to get you back to work. Contact us if you need help now.

We'll update this post when Microsoft releases their fix.