KB5055523 for Windows 11 24H2 is currently being deployed through Windows Update, bringing with it a suite of security enhancements alongside minor improvements. However, users have encountered an intriguing development: the appearance of a new folder named inetpub in the C: drive post-update installation and system restart. This phenomenon has been confirmed by many, including myself, who observed it firsthand after applying the update.
The Purpose of the inetpub Folder
The inetpub folder is typically associated with Windows Internet Information Services (IIS), a web server solution from Microsoft that allows users to host websites, applications, and FTP servers directly on their Windows machines. The data pertinent to these services is stored within the inetpub directory.
It is important to note that IIS is an optional feature and is not generally installed by default on Windows 11 Home or Pro editions. Users must enable it through the Windows Features panel if they wish to utilize it.
Despite the folder’s unexpected emergence, there is no cause for alarm; IIS remains disabled on systems where it was not previously activated. Microsoft has clarified that the creation of the inetpub folder is intentional and not a bug. Although the folder may appear empty and seemingly redundant, it serves a critical role in enhancing the security framework of Windows. Therefore, users are advised to refrain from deleting it.
“After installing this update or a later Windows update, a new %systemdrive%inetpub folder will be created on your device. This folder should not be deleted regardless of whether Internet Information Services (IIS) is enabled on the target device. This behavior is part of changes that increase protection and does not require any action from IT admins and end users. For more information, see CVE-2025-21204.”
While the inetpub folder has drawn attention, the April update KB5055523 is not without its share of issues. Microsoft has acknowledged several known problems on its official support page, including those impacting popular applications like Roblox and Citrix, as well as challenges with Windows Hello functionality.
Specifically, users on Arm devices have reported difficulties downloading and playing Roblox from the Microsoft Store. Additionally, systems with certain Citrix components may face obstacles when attempting to install the January 2025 Windows security update. Furthermore, some users are experiencing issues with Windows Hello facial recognition and PIN sign-ins, necessitating re-registration to regain access.
Updated on April 11, 2025: In the original publishing of this story, we erroneously presumed that the inetpub folder was a bug and could be safely deleted. This turned out to be a mistake. We regret the error and apologize for any confusion.
This article was originally featured in our sister publication PC-WELT and has been translated and localized from German.
