Windows 11 KB5074109 has recently come under scrutiny due to a series of issues affecting users, particularly those with Nvidia GPUs. Reports indicate that the update can lead to a black screen on some PCs and cause Outlook to freeze when using POP accounts, which download emails from a server to a local device. Additionally, the update disrupts the functionality of File Explorer by failing to respect desktop.ini settings, specifically the ‘LocalizedResourceName’ directive.
Black screen issue after January 2026 Update
The black screen problem associated with Windows 11 KB5074109 appears to stem from either the update itself or compatibility issues with GPU drivers. While no specific configurations have been identified, users with both Nvidia and AMD GPUs have reported experiencing random black screens after installing the January 2026 Update. In these instances, the desktop may freeze momentarily before the display returns to normal.
One user found that switching their monitor’s DisplayPort mode offered a temporary solution. Although this issue is not pervasive, those who encounter frequent black screens may consider uninstalling the update or updating their GPU drivers. Notably, this update does not appear to affect gaming performance across various hardware, including handheld devices.
Additionally, some users have reported that their desktop wallpaper resets to black following the update. To restore a custom background, users can navigate to Settings > Personalization and reselect their desired wallpaper.
Outlook Classic won’t open or exit, save sent mails when you use POP, and install Windows 11 KB5074109 (Build 26200.7623)
Microsoft has acknowledged a significant issue with Outlook Classic for users with POP accounts. After installing Windows 11 KB5074109, some users have experienced problems where Outlook appears to be closed but remains active in the background. This bug prevents users from reopening the application without first terminating the process in Task Manager or rebooting their device.
Reports indicate that Outlook Classic freezes within minutes of opening, displaying a ‘Not Responding’ message. Users have attempted various troubleshooting methods, including repairs and creating new profiles, but many found success only after uninstalling the problematic update. Microsoft is currently investigating this issue and may release a fix in a future update.
What to do if Outlook hangs or freezes and won’t open or close after the January 2026 Update?
To address the freezing issue, users should open Task Manager and terminate the Outlook.exe process. If this does not resolve the problem, the recommended course of action is to uninstall Windows 11 KB5074109 or await the next update from Microsoft.
Windows 11 KB5074109 breaks Azure Virtual Desktop
In addition to the aforementioned issues, Microsoft has confirmed that the January 2026 Patch Tuesday updates, including KB5074109, can disrupt Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) functionality. Users may encounter sign-in failures or credential prompts that prevent them from establishing remote desktop connections. This problem particularly affects AVD and Windows 365, leading to immediate connection failures upon clicking ‘Connect.’
Microsoft has acknowledged the issue and suggests using the Windows App web client or Remote Desktop client as temporary workarounds. The company is actively working to resolve the problem and has indicated that the failures are client-side, meaning that user data synced to the cloud remains unaffected.
What to do if Azure Virtual Desktop / Remote Desktop is not working after the January 2026 Update?
For those affected by the AVD failures, Microsoft has released a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) that addresses the problem by disabling the feature responsible for the disruptions. Users can find the KIR in their Microsoft admin portal or download it directly from the company’s website. Alternatively, users may choose to uninstall KB5074109 or wait for an out-of-band patch expected to be released soon.
Microsoft breaks LocalizedResourceName (desktop.ini) in File Explorer
Another notable issue stemming from Windows 11 KB5074109 is the malfunction of File Explorer regarding the LocalizedResourceName directive within desktop.ini files. This bug prevents users from customizing folder names, as the update disregards the LocalizedResourceName value and displays the original folder name instead. Furthermore, attempts to hide certain folders using the hidden attribute are also ignored.
While the exact cause of this issue remains unclear, it is suspected that recent updates to Windows components may have inadvertently affected this functionality. Microsoft has yet to acknowledge these reports, but further updates are anticipated in the next cumulative release.
How to uninstall Windows 11 KB5074109
For users experiencing issues with the January 2026 Update, uninstalling Windows 11 KB5074109 may be the most effective solution. To do so, follow these steps:
- Open Settings > Windows Update > Update history.
- Scroll down to find Uninstall updates and select it.
- Locate KB5074109 in the list of installed updates and choose ‘Uninstall.’
- Confirm your decision in the pop-up window to remove the update, which will require a single reboot.
It is important to note that uninstalling the update may leave users vulnerable to security issues, as the January 2026 Update addressed numerous vulnerabilities, including three zero-day issues. Therefore, users must weigh the risks before proceeding with the uninstallation.
