Important Update: NHS Smartcard Connectivity Issue

Important Update: NHS Smartcard Connectivity Issue

UPDATED at 13:20 16/10/2025: The NHS has now published a live service status and guidance page, which we recommend bookmarking and checking for ongoing updates:

🔗 View NHS Digital’s guidance and current status

UPDATED at 10:30 16/10/2025:We’re aware that some pharmacies are currently experiencing difficulties accessing RxWeb due to a wider NHS Smartcard issue. Please be assured that this is not an issue with the RxWeb platform itself.

The problem stems from a recent conflict between NHS software and the latest Windows updates. Specifically, error 400_645 has been reported in connection with Credential Management.

The NHS has advised the following as a temporary resolution:

“We are aware of an issue related to Windows patch updates and Credential Management error 400_645. Rolling back or not deploying MS patch KB5066835 and/or KB5066128 resolves the issue for most organisations as a temporary fix.”

If your pharmacy has not yet been affected, please be aware that automatic Windows updates may still trigger Smartcard-related issues. We advise all customers to stay vigilant and monitor Windows updates closely until the NHS provides a permanent fix.

As your PMR partner, while this is outside of our control, we are fully committed to supporting our customers through this. If you’re encountering issues with Smartcard authentication, our support team is on hand to assist where possible in implementing the suggested workaround.

Please contact our support team at support@rxweb.co.uk if you need help or further guidance.

Thank you for your understanding and continued partnership.