Windows 10 and Windows 11 downloads in Russia have been abruptly stopped over the weekend. Instead, users faced an error message, preventing them from getting their hands on the latest software.
Thus, most users suspect that Microsoft outright blocked the installation of both Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Windows 10, 11 Downloads in Russia
As per a news story by Gizmodo, Russian folks trying to download Windows 10 and 11 were left unable to.
The news outlet notes that downloads to the latest version of the Windows operating system have been abruptly stopped.
Users of the OS were baffled to learn that they could no longer download either Windows 10 or Windows 11 straight from the website of Microsoft.
Instead, the site reportedly told its users to visit the support page of Microsoft for further assistance. The website also says "We encountered a problem with your request."
Meanwhile, other users based in Russia encountered error messages, such as "Directory not found" or "404-File," preventing them from downloading the software.
How to Download Windows 10, 11 in Russia
But there is still a way to get the most recent version of Windows 10 and 11, albeit an unofficial route.
According to the latest report by The Register, the download page for the latest Windows OS works fine with the help of a virtual private network (VPN).
By then, folks in Russia would have to pretend to be from elsewhere in the world to get their hands on the latest Windows software.
So, it appears that there is no problem with the download page of Windows except for the server in Russia.
The Register notes that the downloads of VPNs have skyrocketed in the Russian nation since tech giants have pulled out their services from the largest country in the world.
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Microsoft and Russia
Gizmodo reports that Microsoft has yet to explain the whole situation. So, as of writing, we are not entirely sure if the renowned tech giant outright blocked Windows downloads in Russia.
It could likely be another issue altogether; like an issue with its servers in Russia or something to that extent.
Nevertheless, it sure is possible, as well, that Microsoft intentionally blocked Windows downloads in Russia.
The idea is not far-fetched. Microsoft has previously suspended the sales of new products in the Russian region.
More recently, the tech giant behind Windows announced that it plans to trim its workforce by roughly 400 employees.
