Windows 11's latest update reportedly disrupts its essential operating system utility
Microsoft is urging Windows users to upgrade to Windows 11 ahead of the October 14, 2025, end-of-support date for Windows 10. However, the latest update, KB5051987, has been causing widespread issues, including problems with File Explorer.
Users have reported that File Explorer is unresponsive, either failing to open from desktop shortcuts or refusing to navigate between locations through the sidebar. Some have experienced BSoD (Blue screen of death) issues and potential corruption of the operating system as a result of this update.
Affected folders vary from user to user, but commonly used main folders like Documents, Downloads, and Pictures are among the most widely reported. For those encountering these issues or who have not downloaded the latest KB5051987 update, it's essential to be informed about the potential problems.
Microsoft has yet to offer a definitive solution to these issues, and community workarounds have led to inconsistent results. However, there are steps users can take to resolve the File Explorer bugs caused by KB5051987 on Windows 11 24H2.
Firstly, install the latest cumulative updates, especially KB5053656 or later, which include fixes for these issues. For enterprise environments using earlier updates before March 27, 2025, Microsoft provides a special Known Issue Rollback (KIR) Group Policy (KB5053598) to temporarily disable the problematic changes causing these issues. Applying this policy requires installing and configuring it followed by a device restart.
In summary, to resolve File Explorer bugs caused by KB5051987 on Windows 11 24H2:
- Install the latest cumulative updates, especially KB5053656 or later, which include fixes for these issues.
- If unable to upgrade immediately and using enterprise-managed devices with earlier updates, apply the Known Issue Rollback Group Policy (KB5053598) available from Microsoft and restart the device.
- Keep Windows updated regularly, as newer cumulative updates tend to fix bugs introduced by previous ones.
The February 2025 optional update, expected soon, might address the File Explorer issues caused by the KB5051987 patch. Despite these issues, the future of Windows 11 remains promising, with potential for a significant comeback in 2025.
- The latest cumulative updates, such as KB5053656 or later, can help Windows 11 users resolve the File Explorer bugs caused by KB5051987.
- For enterprise-managed devices using earlier updates, a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) Group Policy (KB5053598) from Microsoft can be applied to temporarily fix the problematic changes causing these issues.
- Regular updates are crucial for Windows users, as newer updates often address bugs introduced by previous ones.
