Windows 11 KB5077181 emerges as a noteworthy update, bringing a wave of enhancements after a prolonged period of anticipation. In extensive testing across numerous devices, Windows Latest has reported no significant issues, suggesting that this update may even enhance performance for some users, particularly those who experienced delays with explorer.exe. Additionally, it addresses the frustrating black screen problem affecting Nvidia GPUs.
This update is mandatory, meaning it will be installed automatically, and it comes highly recommended for several compelling reasons.
- It resolves up to 58 critical vulnerabilities in Windows 11, including a serious flaw in Windows Notepad that could allow for remote code execution.
- New features are introduced, such as an Apple Handoff-like Resume function, enabling users to continue phone tasks seamlessly on their PCs.
Gaming issues should now be fixed, at least for some of you
The January 2026 updates for Windows 11 were challenging for many users, with reports of various significant issues, including a troublesome black screen. However, the latest update appears to have rectified many of these gaming-related concerns. After installing the February 2026 Update (KB5077181), which upgraded my system to Build 26200.7705, I found that graphical artifacts in games like Forza Horizon 5 were no longer present.
Forza Horizon 5 had been among the titles plagued by graphical glitches following the January update, but it seems that Microsoft has successfully addressed these issues, or perhaps Nvidia’s driver updates have contributed to the resolution. While my experience has improved, it’s essential to note that not all users may see the same results immediately. Windows updates are rolled out gradually, meaning that even those on Build 26200.7705 might not have received all the fixes yet.
Windows 11 KB5077181 also fixes the Nvidia black screen problem
KB5077181 officially tackles the black screen bug that has affected certain Nvidia GPUs, although specific models have not been detailed. Microsoft has acknowledged this issue, albeit buried within the extensive release notes, which may have gone unnoticed by many users.
Following the January 2026 update (KB5074109), reports of black screens and system freezes became widespread. One user shared their experience on the Feedback Hub, stating that their Nvidia GPU laptop faced crashes with graphics-intensive applications, leading to system freezes. Another user described random blackouts that lasted several seconds, disrupting their workflow.
Numerous complaints flooded the Feedback Hub and Nvidia’s forums, prompting Nvidia to suggest uninstalling the January update for those still experiencing issues. However, the ten-day window for removal left many users stuck with the problematic update. Thankfully, with the arrival of Windows 11 KB5077181, users can now resolve these issues without the need to uninstall previous updates.
Microsoft has confirmed that this update addresses black screen problems in isolated multiuser environments, particularly following a Windows upgrade. It also appears to have rectified a related issue where certain GPU configurations could lead to boot failures accompanied by a KERNELSECURITYCHECK_FAILURE error.
Moreover, Windows Latest has verified that the update resolves a frustrating issue that caused explorer.exe to freeze or crash immediately upon login, rendering Windows 11 nearly unusable. With the taskbar, Start menu, and desktop disappearing, these fixes are a welcome relief.
To check if the update is installed, navigate to Settings > System > About. If your system is on Build 26200.7840 or newer, you are equipped with all the necessary updates. However, as previously mentioned, the rollout is gradual, and some users may need to wait for the changes to take effect on their systems.