How to Fix Autopilot Not Working in Windows 11

Windows Autopilot is one of the most useful deployment tools for IT administrators. It helps configure and set up new Windows devices automatically, saving time and effort. However, sometimes Autopilot stops working properly in Windows 11 — showing errors during setup, failing to connect to the deployment service, or not enrolling devices correctly.

If you’re facing the same issue, don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll walk you through several proven methods to fix Autopilot not working in Windows 11 step by step.

What Is Windows Autopilot?

Before we dive into the fixes, let’s quickly recap what Windows Autopilot does.

Windows Autopilot is a cloud-based deployment technology by Microsoft that helps you set up and pre-configure new devices. It automates the out-of-box experience (OOBE), making it easier for IT admins to enroll, configure, and manage systems through Microsoft Intune or Microsoft Endpoint Manager.

Autopilot ensures devices are ready for use with minimal user interaction — but when it doesn’t work, it can delay the entire deployment process.

Common Reasons Why Autopilot Stops Working

There are several causes behind Autopilot not functioning properly in Windows 11. Some of the most common include:

• Misconfigured Intune or Azure AD settings
• Network connectivity issues during setup
• Missing or corrupted Autopilot profiles
• Outdated Windows 11 build or drivers
• Incorrect device registration or hardware hash
• Proxy or firewall blocking Microsoft’s Autopilot endpoints

Once you identify the cause, fixing it becomes easier. Let’s go over the troubleshooting steps.

How to Fix Autopilot Not Working in Windows 11

Follow these step-by-step methods to get Windows Autopilot working again.

1. Check Your Internet Connection

Windows Autopilot requires a stable and unrestricted Internet connection to reach Microsoft’s servers.

• Make sure you’re connected to a reliable network.
• Avoid using a VPN, proxy, or restricted corporate network while testing.
• If you’re using Wi-Fi, switch to Ethernet for better stability.
• Try accessing: https://ztd.dds.microsoft.com If this page doesn’t load, your network may be blocking Autopilot services.

2. Verify Device Registration in Windows Autopilot

Your device must be registered properly before it can use Autopilot. Here’s how you can verify that:

1. Sign in to the Microsoft Intune Admin Center → Devices → Windows Enrollment → Devices.
2. Check if your device’s hardware hash appears in the list.
3. If it’s missing, export the hardware hash manually using PowerShell: Get-WindowsAutopilotInfo -OutputFile AutoPilotHWID.csv
4. Then re-import it in the Intune portal.

💡 Tip: Make sure the device’s serial number and hardware hash match exactly in your tenant.

3. Check the Assigned Autopilot Profile

Autopilot won’t work if the device doesn’t have a deployment profile assigned.

1. In Microsoft Intune Admin Center, go to Devices → Windows Enrollment → Deployment Profiles.
2. Open your Autopilot profile and confirm that it’s assigned to the device group.
3. If it’s unassigned, add the device group manually.
4. After assigning, click Sync to push the profile again.

Wait a few minutes, then restart the device and check if setup begins correctly.

4. Sync Windows Autopilot and Intune

Sometimes, syncing Autopilot and Intune manually can fix delayed profile assignments.

1. Go to Settings → Accounts → Access work or school.
2. Click your connected account → Info → Sync.
3. Alternatively, open Microsoft Intune Admin Center → Devices → Sync for the device.

After the sync completes, restart your PC and see if Autopilot runs as expected.

5. Disable Proxy or Firewall Restrictions

Network firewalls or proxies may block the URLs Autopilot depends on. To ensure proper connectivity, make sure these domains are allowed:

*.microsoft.com
*.windowsupdate.com
*.manage.microsoft.com
ztd.dds.microsoft.com

If you’re on a corporate network, contact your network admin to whitelist these addresses or test on a home Wi-Fi connection.

6. Update Windows 11

Outdated Windows builds can also cause compatibility issues with Autopilot.

To update:

1. Go to Settings → Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. Install all available updates, including optional ones.

After restarting, reattempt Autopilot setup.

7. Reset the Device and Retry Autopilot Enrollment

If none of the above works, resetting the device can help.

1. Go to Settings → System → Recovery.
2. Under Reset this PC, click Reset PC.
3. Choose Remove everything → Cloud download.
4. Once Windows reinstalls, reconnect to the network and start the Autopilot setup again.

8. Check for Service Outages

Sometimes, the issue may not be on your side. Visit Microsoft’s official Service Health Dashboard to check if there’s an ongoing outage affecting Windows Autopilot or Intune.

Final Thoughts

Windows Autopilot is a powerful tool for modern device deployment, but when it fails, it can be frustrating. Most of the time, the issue comes down to connectivity, profile assignment, or outdated configurations.

By following the troubleshooting steps above — from checking network access to re-syncing profiles and updating Windows — you can easily fix Autopilot not working in Windows 11 and get your setup running smoothly again.