January 2026 started with challenges for Windows 11 users. Microsoft's latest security update KB5074109, which was supposed to bring stability and security, triggered a wave of technical problems β from system lockups to black screens.
Although the update patches over 100 vulnerabilities, including three critical zero-day exploits, the cost for many users has been high.
π By The Numbers
- 100+ Patched vulnerabilities
- 3 Critical zero-day exploits fixed
- 1000+ Problem reports from users and sysadmins
π΄ Main Symptoms and Issues
Reports from users and system administrators point to several major defects in the new version:
1. Complete System Lockups
Many users report sudden computer freezing without the familiar Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). The problem is particularly severe when working with graphics-intensive applications such as 3D modeling software (BforArtists/Blender).
2. Black Screens and Graphics Regressions
Nvidia and AMD graphics card owners are encountering black screens immediately after installation. It appears that changes to the Windows kernel graphics stack conflict with current drivers.
3. Cloud Storage and Outlook Problems
Applications that store data in OneDrive or Dropbox frequently stop responding (hanging). Classic Outlook is also affected β it either won't start or freezes when attempting to access emails.
4. Azure Virtual Desktop Errors
Business users report inability to connect remotely (error 0x80080005).
π§ Why Is This Happening?
The KB5074109 update for versions 24H2 and 25H2 includes massive changes to DirectX and the servicing stack. These changes aim to optimize the operation of NPUs (neural processors) for AI features in Copilot+ computers, but apparently lead to incompatibility with older drivers and specific File Explorer configurations.
β How to Protect Your System? (Working Solutions)
If you've already installed the update and are experiencing problems, experts recommend the following steps:
Step 1: Uninstall the Update
Go to Settings β Windows Update β Update history β Uninstall updates. Find KB5074109 and select "Uninstall". Restart the system immediately.
Step 2: Pause Automatic Updates
After uninstalling, stop automatic updates for 1-2 weeks until Microsoft releases an official fix.
Step 3: Update Graphics Drivers
Check for the latest WHQL drivers from Nvidia or AMD websites. In some cases, however, rolling back to a previous driver version may be the more stable solution.
Step 4: Azure-Specific Fix
Microsoft has already released an emergency patch (KB5077744) specifically for Azure Virtual Desktop issues. If this is your only problem, install only this patch.
π Conclusion
The situation puts system administrators in a difficult position: leave systems vulnerable to serious cyber threats or risk workflow stability.
For regular users, the advice is clear: if your computer is running unstably after the latest update, don't hesitate to remove it and wait for a corrected version from Microsoft.
Microsoft is expected to coordinate additional fixes in the coming days. Follow official channels for updates.
π‘ Quick Summary
Problem: Windows 11 update KB5074109 causing crashes, black screens, and application hangs
Affected: Versions 24H2 and 25H2
Quick Fix: Uninstall KB5074109 and pause updates temporarily
Alternative: Install KB5077744 if you only have Azure issues
This article is a translation of the original Bulgarian article: Windows 11 update KB5074109: Problems and fix
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