In a time when Microsoft aims to solidify its relationship with desktop PC users through the introduction of Windows 11, the recent 24H2 update (KB5051987) has unfortunately sparked a wave of discontent among its user base. This update has led to significant disruptions, particularly affecting File Explorer, a cornerstone of the operating system.
As users express their frustrations online, the timing of these complaints is particularly unfortunate for Microsoft. The company is actively encouraging Windows 10 users to transition to Windows 11 before the end-of-support date of October 14, 2025. However, the latest security patch has rendered File Explorer—essential for file and folder management—unresponsive for many. Reports indicate that users are struggling to open the application from desktop shortcuts or navigate through the sidebar, with commonly used folders like Documents, Downloads, and Pictures becoming inaccessible.
In an effort to isolate the issue, Windows Latest confirmed that the bug could be replicated on a fresh installation of Windows 11, ruling out potential conflicts with third-party software. The implications of this discovery raise concerns about the reliability of the update.
Compounding the situation, some users have reported encountering Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) errors, with some even experiencing complete operating system corruption. As of now, Microsoft has not provided a definitive solution to these problems. While the community has proposed various workarounds, results have been inconsistent. For those affected by the File Explorer issues, a temporary remedy exists: users can revert to the previous January 2025 update by navigating to Settings > Windows Update > Uninstall updates and selecting the option to uninstall the Security Update for Microsoft Windows (KB5051987).
What’s next
Looking ahead, it is hoped that Microsoft is actively working on a fix for the KB5051987 patch, given its impact on such a critical component of the Windows ecosystem. While not every user is affected, the frequency of these issues following updates is concerning. The ease with which Windows Latest was able to reproduce the problem on a clean install serves as a troubling indicator of the update’s stability.
Fortunately, with the February 2025 optional update anticipated to roll out soon, there is optimism that Microsoft will address these concerns promptly. This would enable users to proceed with the update as intended, free from the complications currently plaguing File Explorer.
