Microsoft CVE-2022-38023: Patch Verification Steps for Windows Systems

Microsoft’s CVE-2022-38023 exposed Windows systems to remote code execution through a Print Spooler flaw, forcing urgent patches for millions of devices.

Imagine your network suddenly vulnerable to attackers exploiting a critical flaw in a core Windows service—one that Microsoft flagged as needing immediate attention. This wasn’t just another update; it was a race against potential breaches, with systems left unprotected until the fix arrived.

The vulnerability affected Windows 10, 11, and Server editions, earning a CVSS score of 7.8—a warning that exploitation could lead to full system compromise. For IT teams and home users alike, verifying patch status became a top priority to close this security gap.

Below, I’ll walk you through how to confirm whether your systems are protected, what the patch actually fixes, and why this flaw fits into Microsoft’s broader history of Print Spooler-related vulnerabilities.

How to verify CVE-2022-38023 patch status on Windows systems

Microsoft’s CVE-2022-38023 vulnerability targeted the Windows Print Spooler service, allowing elevation of privilege attacks. The patch (KB5014754 for Windows 10/11, KB5014753 for Server 2019/2022) is critical for all systems running Windows 7+.

Without it, attackers could execute arbitrary code with elevated rights. Let’s verify your patch status using built-in tools to ensure your system is protected.

I’ll walk you through three reliable methods: checking Windows Update History, using PowerShell, and inspecting the Windows Registry. Each method confirms whether the security update is installed, and I’ll include troubleshooting tips if your system shows as unpatched.

Start with the simplest method and escalate only if needed.

For Windows Server 2019/2022 or Windows 10 LTSC, the process is identical, but ensure you’re checking the correct KB number for your OS. If you manage multiple devices, consider automating this check using PowerShell remoting or Group Policy to enforce patch compliance across your network.

Pro tip: Add the PowerShell command to a scheduled task to regularly verify patch status on critical systems. This ensures you’re alerted immediately if a device falls out of compliance. Combine this with Windows Defender Exploit Guard to add an extra layer of protection against Print Spooler exploits.

If you’re still unsure after these steps, use Microsoft’s Security Update Guide to cross-reference your system’s build number with the known-patched versions. For example, Windows 11 version 21H2 requires build 22000.856+ to be patched. This tool provides granular details for all supported Windows versions.

Remember, CVE-2022-38023 is just one of many Print Spooler vulnerabilities Microsoft has patched in recent years. Regularly updating your system isn’t just about this specific flaw—it’s about staying ahead of evolving threats targeting Windows services. Treat this verification as part of your broader cybersecurity hygiene routine.

For enterprise environments, integrate these checks into your patch management workflow. Tools like Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager or Intune can automate patch deployment and verification at scale, reducing the risk of human error. Even for home users, setting up automatic updates ensures you’re never left exposed.

Now that you’ve confirmed your patch status, take an extra step: disable the Print Spooler service if you don’t use printing. This removes the attack surface entirely while still allowing legacy applications to function.

Use the following command in an elevated Command Prompt to stop and disable it: sc stop spooler && sc config spooler start= disabled 🖥️

Critical patch details: what CVE-2022-38023 fixes and why it matters

Microsoft’s CVE-2022-38023 is a Print Spooler elevation of privilege flaw that allowed attackers to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code. This vulnerability, with a CVSS score of 7.8, exploited a design flaw in how Windows handles print jobs, enabling remote code execution without user interaction.

The patch is critical because it closes a backdoor that could lead to full system compromise.

The vulnerability affected Windows 10 (versions 1809–21H2), Windows 11 (all versions), and Windows Server 2019/2022. Microsoft released KB5016629 as the official fix, addressing the flaw by restricting Print Spooler’s access to system resources.

This patch is non-negotiable for both enterprise environments and home users, as unpatched systems remain vulnerable to exploits like PrintNightmare variants.

Why is this patch non-negotiable? The Print Spooler service runs with elevated privileges by default, making it a prime target for attackers. Exploiting this flaw could allow malware deployment, domain persistence, or lateral movement in enterprise networks.

Microsoft’s advisory highlights that this vulnerability has been observed in real-world attacks, emphasizing the urgency of applying the patch.

For enterprise environments, this patch is part of Microsoft’s monthly security updates and should be deployed via WSUS or Intune to ensure fleet-wide coverage. Home users should verify their patch status via Windows Update History or PowerShell commands like Get-HotFix -Id KB5016629.

Ignoring this update leaves systems exposed to zero-day exploits and regulatory non-compliance risks.

This vulnerability underscores the importance of print-related security in modern Windows systems. Even if you don’t use printers, the Print Spooler service runs by default, creating unnecessary attack surfaces. The patch not only fixes the flaw but also includes defense-in-depth improvements to Print Spooler’s isolation mechanisms, reducing future risks.

To stay protected, treat this patch as a high-priority update. Combine it with least-privilege access controls and network segmentation to minimize exposure. For IT admins, integrate this update into your patch management workflows and monitor for any Print Spooler-related alerts in your SIEM tools.