Many users have recently faced challenges with their modems following the installation of the January 2026 Security Update for Windows 11. The update, identified as KB5074109, has reportedly rendered modems inoperable for a notable segment of the user base, compounding the ongoing difficulties associated with recent Windows 11 updates.
Impact of Windows 11 Update KB5074109 on Modems
Official documentation indicates that the January update removed several legacy modem drivers, specifically:
- agrsm64.sys (x64)
- agrsm.sys (x86)
- smserl64.sys (x64)
- smserial.sys (x86)
This removal has left many modems dependent on these drivers non-functional. Unfortunately, this critical information was somewhat obscured within the update notes, leading to considerable confusion among users. Reports of issues have emerged across various platforms, including Microsoft’s forums and third-party communities.
User Experiences and Reactions
Frustration among users has been palpable. One user, known as Imsai8080, shared their experience of a modem that was marketed as “Windows 11 compatible,” which stopped functioning after the update. They managed to restore functionality by uninstalling KB5074109, allowing both their new and older modems to operate once again. This situation has broader implications, particularly for legacy systems such as phone answering and logging devices that rely on these modem drivers. A growing number of users have reported similar challenges, highlighting a collective struggle within the community.
Security vs. Usability
Microsoft has defended the removal of these outdated drivers as a necessary step to address unpatched vulnerabilities, with the aim of enhancing overall system security. However, this justification does little to mitigate the frustration felt by users. As noted by one user, ohs77, a modem purchased just six months ago became inoperative due to its reliance on the now-removed agrsm64.sys driver.
The lack of updated drivers from manufacturers has left many users with limited options. For those who depend on these legacy modems, the primary workaround involves uninstalling the troublesome update and temporarily pausing future updates—a strategy that carries its own set of risks.
What to Do Next
If you find yourself impacted by the changes introduced in KB5074109, consider the following steps:
- Uninstall the KB5074109 update from your system.
- Pause or disable Windows Update to prevent automatic reinstallation.
- Keep an eye out for any announcements from your modem manufacturer regarding updated drivers.
While these measures may offer temporary relief, it is essential to remember that operating an unpatched system can expose users to security vulnerabilities. As the technical landscape continues to evolve, those relying on older hardware must remain adaptable to such changes. Have you encountered issues related to the KB5074109 update? We invite you to share your experiences in the comments below.
For further insights and resources on Windows updates and related issues, visit Filmogaz.com.
Windows 11 Update KB5074109 Disrupts Modems for Select Users
Many users have recently faced challenges with their modems following the installation of the January 2026 Security Update for Windows 11. The update, identified as KB5074109, has reportedly rendered modems inoperable for a notable segment of the user base, compounding the ongoing difficulties associated with recent Windows 11 updates.
Impact of Windows 11 Update KB5074109 on Modems
Official documentation indicates that the January update removed several legacy modem drivers, specifically:
This removal has left many modems dependent on these drivers non-functional. Unfortunately, this critical information was somewhat obscured within the update notes, leading to considerable confusion among users. Reports of issues have emerged across various platforms, including Microsoft’s forums and third-party communities.
User Experiences and Reactions
Frustration among users has been palpable. One user, known as Imsai8080, shared their experience of a modem that was marketed as “Windows 11 compatible,” which stopped functioning after the update. They managed to restore functionality by uninstalling KB5074109, allowing both their new and older modems to operate once again. This situation has broader implications, particularly for legacy systems such as phone answering and logging devices that rely on these modem drivers. A growing number of users have reported similar challenges, highlighting a collective struggle within the community.
Security vs. Usability
Microsoft has defended the removal of these outdated drivers as a necessary step to address unpatched vulnerabilities, with the aim of enhancing overall system security. However, this justification does little to mitigate the frustration felt by users. As noted by one user, ohs77, a modem purchased just six months ago became inoperative due to its reliance on the now-removed agrsm64.sys driver.
The lack of updated drivers from manufacturers has left many users with limited options. For those who depend on these legacy modems, the primary workaround involves uninstalling the troublesome update and temporarily pausing future updates—a strategy that carries its own set of risks.
What to Do Next
If you find yourself impacted by the changes introduced in KB5074109, consider the following steps:
While these measures may offer temporary relief, it is essential to remember that operating an unpatched system can expose users to security vulnerabilities. As the technical landscape continues to evolve, those relying on older hardware must remain adaptable to such changes. Have you encountered issues related to the KB5074109 update? We invite you to share your experiences in the comments below.
For further insights and resources on Windows updates and related issues, visit Filmogaz.com.