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Microsoft to force updates to Windows 11 25H2 for PCs with older OS versions — 'intelligent' update system uses machine learning to determine when a device is ready
Winsage
April 4, 2026

Microsoft to force updates to Windows 11 25H2 for PCs with older OS versions — ‘intelligent’ update system uses machine learning to determine when a device is ready

Microsoft is updating devices running Windows 11 version 24H2 to version 25H2, as support for 24H2 will end on October 13, 2026. The automatic update targets Home and Pro editions, while organizational devices are exempt. An "intelligent" system using machine learning will determine device readiness for the update, though details on the criteria remain unclear. Additionally, Microsoft released an emergency update, KB5086672, to address issues from a previous faulty update, KB5079391, which caused installation failures.
Windows 11 Update Adds Support for Display Refresh Rates Above 1,000Hz
Winsage
March 31, 2026

Windows 11 Update Adds Support for Display Refresh Rates Above 1,000Hz

Microsoft's preview update for Windows 11, KB5079391, initially supported display refresh rates exceeding 1,000Hz, potentially reaching up to 5,000Hz. The update was applicable to Windows 11 versions 25H2, 24H2, and 26H1. It introduced enhancements such as improved auto-rotation and HDR reliability, better power efficiency for USB4-connected monitors, detailed image descriptions for Copilot and Copilot+ PCs using Narrator, and redesigned dialog boxes in the Accounts settings menu. However, Microsoft retracted the update on March 27 due to installation issues, with plans to roll out the enhancements in a future release.
Windows 11 KB5079391 update pulled as Microsoft scrambles to address installation issues
Winsage
March 30, 2026

Windows 11 KB5079391 update pulled as Microsoft scrambles to address installation issues

Microsoft has retracted the non-security preview update KB5079391 for Windows 11, which was released on March 26, due to user-reported installation issues, specifically error code 0x80073712. The update has been temporarily removed from Windows Update, but users' systems remain operational. The timeline for a re-release of the update is uncertain, and Microsoft may refine it or wait until the April Patch Tuesday for broader implementation.
Windows 11 KB5068861 won't install, File Explorer SMB search not working on network shares, and other issues
Winsage
November 17, 2025

Windows 11 KB5068861 won’t install, File Explorer SMB search not working on network shares, and other issues

Windows 11 users are facing installation issues with the KB5068861 update from the November 2025 Patch Tuesday release, which addresses 63 critical security vulnerabilities. Errors reported include 0x80070306, 0x800f0983, and 0x800f081f. Affected users can wait for an optional release or use the Media Creation Tool, which downloads the same patch. Some users have reported a malfunctioning SMB search feature after the update. The installation errors have prompted reports of specific error codes, and attempts to resolve them through SFC scans or health checks have been largely ineffective. Downloading the .msu package from the Microsoft Update Catalog is recommended, followed by an installation attempt. If unsuccessful, the Media Creation Tool can be used while retaining user data. The November 2025 Update includes enhancements like a revamped Start menu, improved battery icons, and performance improvements, particularly for gamers. However, some users have encountered Bluetooth connectivity issues, especially on AMD PCs, with a temporary fix involving adjustments in Device Manager. The KB5068861 update has also caused a bug affecting search functionality over shared networks, leading to slower search results or empty listings for businesses. This issue arises from a breakdown in communication between the Windows client and the server’s search index. Users can restore functionality by restarting the Windows Search service or rebuilding the index. Additionally, the remote search functionality over SMB is compromised, preventing the Windows client from utilizing the server’s index. Users may need to uninstall the update to restore functionality, which requires disabling the Sandbox feature first. Specific DISM commands can be used to identify and remove the update, or it can be uninstalled through the Settings menu.
First Windows 10 ESU Patch Tuesday release fails for some
Winsage
November 17, 2025

First Windows 10 ESU Patch Tuesday release fails for some

Microsoft is facing installation issues with the first Extended Security Update (ESU) for commercial Windows 10 customers, specifically update KB5068781, which fails to install on devices activated through the Microsoft 365 admin center, resulting in the 0x800f0922 error. Microsoft has acknowledged the issue and is investigating it, but no fix or workaround is currently available. This incident follows another ESU failure that occurred just days prior, prompting Microsoft to release an out-of-band patch. The latest update was intended to fix a previous glitch that incorrectly indicated a user's version of Windows had reached the end of support.
If your Windows 10 Extended Security Updates weren't working, they should now after Microsoft's latest patch
Winsage
November 14, 2025

If your Windows 10 Extended Security Updates weren’t working, they should now after Microsoft’s latest patch

Windows 10 has transitioned to limited support, with users able to enroll in a year-long program for security updates. Some users faced installation challenges due to errors, which have been addressed by the KB5071959 update, allowing successful registration for the Extended Security Update (ESU) program. It is important for users to apply security updates promptly to enhance system defenses. Keeping router firmware up to date is also recommended for overall security. Users considering an upgrade can explore methods to install Windows 11, even if their hardware does not meet the specifications.
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