With the recent rollout of the September Patch Tuesday update, Microsoft has introduced several noteworthy enhancements for Windows 11 users, alongside a significant boost in security measures. This update not only revitalizes the user interface but also addresses a staggering 995 security vulnerabilities, marking a new record for the company.
New Features and Customization Options
One of the most anticipated features is the ability to reposition the Windows 11 taskbar. Users can now move it to the top, left, or right sides of the screen, a flexibility reminiscent of Windows 10. To explore this new functionality, users should install the latest update, navigate to Settings, select Windows Update, and check for updates. Once installed, a simple restart will allow users to access the new taskbar settings.
After logging back in, users can right-click on an empty area of the taskbar and select Taskbar settings. Here, a new option for Taskbar position appears, complete with thumbnails for each location. Users can also adjust the alignment of the taskbar, choosing between centered or left-aligned options depending on its position. Additionally, the height of the taskbar and the size of its icons can be modified, offering further customization.
However, it’s worth noting that the auto-hide feature for the taskbar is currently limited to the bottom position, a restriction that may leave some users puzzled, given that Windows 10 allowed this functionality in all positions.
The update also brings enhancements to the Start menu. Users can now select between Small and Large sizes for the menu, or leave it on Automatic to adjust based on screen resolution. The Recommended section has been rebranded as Recent, allowing users to hide recently added apps and files selectively. Furthermore, users can choose to conceal their name and profile picture from the Start menu, adding an extra layer of privacy.
Another improvement is found in the Search window, which has been streamlined to focus solely on suggested or recent searches, eliminating clutter from unnecessary content like top apps and promotions. This change aims to enhance user experience by making searches more efficient and relevant.
A Record-Breaking Security Update
On the security front, the September update has set a new benchmark with 995 patches, a feat that underscores Microsoft’s commitment to safeguarding its users. According to Action1, a patch management provider, this release includes 121 critical vulnerabilities and two zero-day flaws, both of which could allow attackers to gain system-level privileges if exploited.
The vulnerabilities in question are CVE-2026-81963, related to the Windows Update Stack, and CVE-2026-85880, associated with Windows Advanced Local Procedure Call (ALPC). Exploiting these flaws could enable attackers to disable security measures, install malware, or manipulate sensitive data, highlighting the importance of installing this update promptly.
As Microsoft continues to refine Windows 11, the combination of new features and robust security measures makes this update a compelling reason for users to ensure their systems are up to date.