Microsoft’s recent Windows 11 security update, KB5074109, released on January 13, 2026, has led to significant system stability issues, prompting the company to advise users to uninstall the update. This update, intended to enhance security and performance, has instead introduced a series of problems affecting both individual users and enterprise environments.
Overview of KB5074109
The KB5074109 update was designed for Windows 11 versions 24H2 (build 26200.7623) and 25H2 (build 26100.7623). It included over 100 security fixes, addressing three zero-day vulnerabilities, and introduced non-security improvements such as Neural Processing Unit (NPU) power optimization. Additionally, the update incorporated servicing stack update KB5071142 and AI components for Copilot+ PCs. Microsoft also simplified update titles in this release for better clarity.
Reported Issues Post-Update
Following the installation of KB5074109, users have reported a range of issues:
– System Lockups and Black Screens: Users have experienced complete system freezes without blue screen errors, particularly during graphics-intensive tasks. Applications like BforArtists 5.0, a Blender fork, have been notably affected when switching viewport shading modes. These issues are linked to regressions in DirectX and GPU drivers, possibly due to changes in the kernel or graphics stack introduced by the update. Both Nvidia and AMD GPU users have reported black screens post-installation.
– File Explorer and Desktop Issues: File Explorer has been reported to ignore desktop.ini LocalizedResourceName settings, leading to inconsistencies in desktop folder names and icons.
– Remote Desktop Connection Failures: Users utilizing Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) and Windows 365 through the Windows App have encountered credential prompt failures, resulting in remote desktop connection errors such as 0x80080005. Microsoft addressed this specific issue with an out-of-band fix, KB5077744, released on January 17, 2026.
– Outlook Classic Freezes: Users with POP/SMTP accounts in Outlook Classic have reported frequent Not Responding screens or the application failing to launch due to lingering processes.
– Cloud Storage Integration Problems: Applications have been hanging when saving files to cloud storage services like OneDrive or Dropbox. This includes issues with Outlook PST files, where emails are missing or not syncing correctly. Microsoft has acknowledged ongoing problems with unresponsive apps utilizing cloud-backed storage and recommends developers contact support or relocate PST files from OneDrive.
Microsoft’s Response and Recommendations
In response to these widespread issues, Microsoft has taken several steps:
– Uninstallation Advisory: Users experiencing problems are advised to uninstall KB5074109. This can be done by navigating to Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates, selecting KB5074109, and rebooting the system.
– Driver Updates: GPU manufacturers like Nvidia and AMD recommend updating to the latest WHQL drivers. If issues persist, users may consider rolling back to previous driver versions.
– Pausing Updates: Users are encouraged to pause Windows updates temporarily and monitor Microsoft’s official channels for further information and fixes.
– Alternative Solutions for AVD Users: For those affected by AVD issues, using the Remote Desktop client or the web client is suggested as an interim solution.
Balancing Security and Stability
While KB5074109 addresses critical security vulnerabilities, the associated regressions have disrupted workflows for many users. This situation presents a challenge for administrators who must balance the need for security with system stability. Enterprises are advised to utilize Known Issue Rollback (KIR) or selective deployment strategies to mitigate risks.
Microsoft is actively working on resolving these issues and plans to include fixes in future rollup updates. Users in high-risk environments should prioritize security patches while remaining vigilant for updates from Microsoft and hardware vendors.
Conclusion
The KB5074109 update for Windows 11, intended to bolster security and performance, has inadvertently caused significant system stability issues. Microsoft’s prompt response includes advising users to uninstall the update and providing interim solutions. Users are encouraged to stay informed through official Microsoft channels and apply recommended fixes to maintain system integrity.
