Microsoft has initiated the rollout of the March 2026 Patch Tuesday update for both Windows 11 and Windows 10. This update, designated as Windows 11 KB5079473 (Build 26200.8037), introduces a variety of enhancements aimed at refining the operating system, aligning with the company’s commitment to improving user experience in 2026. While Patch Tuesday updates traditionally focus on security and stability, this month’s release also showcases several functional upgrades.
Windows 11 Build 26200.8037 for Version 25H2
The March 2026 update applies to Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2, encompassing new features, security enhancements, system fixes, and reliability improvements. Microsoft continues to implement its two-phase rollout strategy, gradually introducing new features while ensuring that security updates are delivered promptly.
New features rolling out with the March 2026 Windows 11 update
New features included in this Patch Tuesday update are being deployed through Microsoft’s Controlled Feature Rollout (CFR) system, which means that not all devices will receive every feature immediately. Users may need to be patient as the rollout progresses.
Emoji 16.0 support lands in Windows 11 25H2 or 24H2
After extensive testing, Microsoft has finally integrated support for Emoji 16.0 into Windows 11. While partial support was introduced in September 2025, users can now insert new emojis directly through the Emoji panel, including symbols like Fingerprint, Leafless Tree, Root, and Shovel. However, flag support remains absent from the built-in Emoji tool.
Windows Backup restore expands to organizations
Windows Backup restore, previously tailored for individual users, is now being adapted for organizational use. This update allows enterprises to restore specific user settings and installed applications during the first sign-in process, enhancing the feature’s utility in multi-user environments and Cloud PCs.
Quick Machine Recovery turned on automatically on more hardware
Quick Machine Recovery (QMR), designed to restore systems to a functional state after problematic updates, will now be enabled by default on a broader range of Windows 11 Pro PCs. This enhancement aims to mitigate disruptions caused by third-party updates, although it remains disabled on enterprise-managed devices.
Bing-powered Internet speed test tool rolls out to the taskbar
The March update introduces a Bing-powered Internet speed test tool, accessible via a new toggle on the taskbar. While this feature directs users to Bing for functionality, it provides a quick method for checking internet speed, albeit with some user experience concerns regarding the reliance on an external site.
Sysmon is now an inbox feature in Windows 11
For advanced users, Sysmon, a tool for deep-level system activity monitoring, is now included as a native component in the March 2026 update. Previously available only through manual download, users can now enable Sysmon directly from the Settings app, enhancing security auditing capabilities.
You can now use WebP as a desktop background
The update also allows users to set WebP images as desktop wallpapers, providing a more efficient option for background images due to their smaller file sizes.
RSAT is now supported on Windows 11 Arm64
In a move to bolster enterprise capabilities, Microsoft has extended support for Remote Server Administration Tools (RSAT) to Windows 11 Arm64 devices. This enables administrators to manage Windows Server environments remotely, enhancing the functionality of Arm-powered PCs.
Small additions in Accounts and Camera settings
The March update introduces minor enhancements, including a new “View my benefits” option in the Start menu, which directs users to their Microsoft account benefits page. Additionally, pan and tilt controls for supported cameras have been integrated into the Settings app, streamlining webcam management.
March 2026 update brings multiple improvements across Windows 11
Alongside new features, the March Patch Tuesday update includes a comprehensive set of reliability and stability improvements:
- Enhanced responsiveness of the Windows Update settings page.
- Improved reliability of the sign-in screen during login processes.
- Greater stability for Nearby Sharing, especially with larger file transfers.
- Improved reliability when switching display modes with multiple monitors.
- Performance enhancements for the Windows printing service.
- Reliability fixes for File Explorer, including new options for opening instances and extracting files.
- Improved device detection in the Network tab of File Explorer.
- Enhanced reliability when waking from sleep mode.
- Refinements to the Storage Settings page.
- Interface consistency improvements across various elements of Windows 11.
Quality improvements included in the normal rollout of the March 2026 update
Preparation for Secure Boot certificate
This update also lays the groundwork for upcoming Secure Boot certificate updates, which are crucial as many certificates will begin expiring in June 2026. Microsoft has implemented infrastructure changes to facilitate this transition, ensuring that systems remain secure during the update process.
Improvement to BitLocker reliability
Additionally, the update addresses a reliability issue with BitLocker encryption, enhancing the overall stability of the disk encryption process.
AI components updated in the background
The March update refreshes several internal AI components, including Image Search and Semantic Analysis, which underpin various intelligent features within Windows 11.
Servicing stack improvements and known issues in the March update
Microsoft has also released a servicing stack update (SSU) identified as KB5077371, which enhances the reliability of the Windows Update infrastructure. Currently, there are no known issues reported with the March 2026 update, indicating a smoother rollout compared to previous updates.
Microsoft continues rollout of new Start menu and battery icons
In addition to the March update features, Microsoft is expanding the updated battery icon design and the redesigned Start menu to more devices, gradually enhancing the user interface for a better experience.
Microsoft warns about the upcoming Secure Boot certificate expiration
As part of this update, Microsoft emphasizes the importance of updating Secure Boot certificates before their expiration in June 2026 to prevent potential boot issues. Users are encouraged to review official guidance and ensure their systems are prepared for this transition.
