Microsoft has rolled out the KB5044273 cumulative update for both Windows 10 22H2 and 21H2, introducing a suite of enhancements and fixes. This update is particularly noteworthy as it encompasses nine changes, including the introduction of a new opt-in notification for Windows Update that users will encounter upon logging into the operating system.
As a mandatory update, KB5044273 incorporates the essential security updates from Microsoft’s October 2024 Patch Tuesday. Users can initiate the installation process by navigating to Settings, selecting Windows Update, and performing a manual ‘Check for Updates’. Given its mandatory nature, the update will automatically begin installing once updates are checked. To facilitate a smoother experience, users have the option to schedule a restart time for their computers to complete the installation.
Source: BleepingComputer
Post-installation, Windows 10 22H2 will be upgraded to build 19045.5011, while Windows 10 21H2 will reflect build 19044.5011. Additionally, users have the choice to manually download and install the KB5044273 update directly from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
What’s new in Windows 10 KB5044273
The KB5044273 update brings a variety of fixes, addressing several issues that have affected user experience. Among the most significant improvements is a resolution for a bug that caused Windows Server to become unresponsive when utilizing File Explorer or the Taskbar. Below is a summary of the nine key fixes included in this update:
- [Start menu] A new feature may reposition your profile picture, along with a fresh background color for the left pane, enhancing the visibility of commands.
- [IE mode] Resolves instances where Microsoft Edge would occasionally stop responding while in IE mode.
- [Media playback] Fixes issues where playback of certain media would halt when using specific surround sound technologies.
- [Microsoft Entra single sign-on (SSO)] Adjustments to the SSO notice, which was prompting too frequently in compliance with the European Digital Markets Act (DMA) during certificate authentication.
- [Country and Operator Settings Asset] Updates COSA profiles for select mobile operators.
- [File Explorer and taskbar] Addresses the unresponsiveness of Windows Server when using applications like File Explorer and the taskbar.
- [Windows Update opt-in notifications] These notifications now appear upon user sign-in.
- [Directory enumeration] Fixes issues where directory enumeration may fail if symbolic links have lengthy target names.
- [Microsoft Defender for Endpoint] Resolves synchronization issues with Work Folders files when Defender for Endpoint is active.
However, it is worth noting that a persistent issue remains, as users may still encounter 0x80070520 errors when attempting to change their profile picture through the following path: Start > Settings > Account > Your info, and then clicking Browse for one under Create your picture.
For a comprehensive list of fixes and additional details, users can refer to the KB5044273 support bulletin as well as last month’s KB5043131 preview update bulletin.
