● Covered by 3 sources · 30 reportsMedium impact5 negative22 neutral
Microsoft Releases Key Windows Security Updates and Support Changes
Key points
- Windows 11 receives security updates KB5101650/5099414 for 571 vulnerabilities.
- Windows 10 gets update KB5099539, fixing 570 vulnerabilities.
- Extended Security Update support for Windows 10 is now until Oct 12, 2027.
- Windows 11 24H2 Home/Pro support ends October 13, 2026.
- Users encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 for continued updates.
- Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 support ends October 13, 2026.
- Windows 11 24H2 Enterprise and Education editions are supported until October 2027.
- Windows 11 25H2 became generally available in September 2024.
- Windows 11 25H2 is a minor update installed via an enablement package.
- Unmanaged Windows 11 24H2 Home/Pro devices will automatically upgrade to 25H2.
- Windows 11 KB5120998 preview update released for versions 25H2 and 24H2.
- KB5120998 includes 35 changes, including taskbar position customization.
- KB5120998 adds a smaller taskbar option and Start menu size options.
- KB5120998 is an optional update without security fixes.
- KB5120998 preview update was released in August 2026.
- KB5120998 resets user-customized mouse cursor settings.
- Users cannot restore previous mouse settings after KB5120998 is installed.
- KB5120998 causes appearance regressions and intermittent animation changes.
- High-DPI mouse cursors are replaced with larger, white cursors by KB5120998.
- KB5120998 resets desktop settings, including wallpaper and themes.
- KB5120998 can install automatically if certain settings are enabled.
- KB5120998 causes desktop backgrounds to display as a solid black color.
- Windows 11 cumulative updates KB5124008 and KB5122880 were released.
- Updates KB5124008 and KB5122880 are for Windows 11 versions 25H2, 24H2, and 23H2.
- These updates include September 2026 Patch Tuesday security patches for 1,000 vulnerabilities.
- The updates are mandatory.
- Windows Search without Bing is a new feature in the September 2026 update.
- The taskbar can now appear at the bottom, top, left, or right side of the screen.
- Windows 10 KB5122878 update is for Enterprise LTSC and ESU program participants.
- Windows 10 KB5122878 updates builds to 19045.7725 or 19044.7725.
- September 2026 Patch Tuesday fixed 966 vulnerabilities, including two zero-day flaws.
- KB5122878 includes additional high confidence device targeting data for Secure Boot certificates.
- September Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11 reintroduces taskbar movement.
- The update addresses 995 security vulnerabilities.
- KB5124012 is for Windows 11 26H1.
- Windows 11 24H2 Home/Pro will stop receiving updates next month.
- September 2026 security updates break the File History backup feature.
- File History backup issues cause application crash events referencing FileHistory.exe and KERNELBASE.dll.
- Affected devices may incorrectly display "Reconnect your drive" messages for File History.
- The "Last Backup" timestamp may not update due to File History issues.
- An optional preview update fixes the File History issue for current Windows 11 versions.
- The File History fix is not available for Windows 11 23H2 or Windows 10.
- The File History bug affects Windows 10 21H2 or later, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2016/2019, and Windows 11 23H2 and later.
- File History is replaced by Windows Backup.
- File History backs up user account profiles to external or network storage.
- The File History bug causes previously backed-up files to show "No previous version available".
- KB5124010 is a non-security preview update for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2.
- KB5124010 includes 46 changes and fixes.
- KB5124010 adds Bluetooth improvements.
- KB5124010 adds Emoji 17.0 support.
- KB5124010 allows remapping the Copilot key.
- KB5124010 adds an "Open apps maximized" accessibility setting.
- KB5124010 adds a recovery remote management plug-in for WinRE.
- KB5124010 fixes an issue where the Bluetooth radio could be off while the toggle showed on.
- KB5124010 fixes crashes with error code 0x139 while streaming Bluetooth audio.
- KB5124010 improves microphone compatibility with certain Bluetooth Classic audio accessories.
- Microsoft paused the KB5002907 update for Microsoft 365 Apps.
- KB5002907 deactivated or removed perpetual Office 2016 and 2019 installations.
- The issue affected customers with out-of-date Microsoft 365 Apps installations.
- KB5002907 is an optional update for Microsoft 365 Apps installations over 90 days out of date.
- KB5002907 is for Current Channel or Monthly Enterprise Channel users.
- Windows 11 2026 Update (26H2) is rolling out.
- Windows 11 26H2 is this year's annual feature update.
- Windows 11 was released on October 5, 2021.
- Windows 11 26H2 update is described as "predictable and low-disruption".
- Unsupported Windows versions will stop receiving security updates after May and June 2027.
- Windows Update certificates expire on May 17, 2027, and June 19, 2027.
- Windows 11 24H2 and Windows Server 2025 need the September 2025 security update or later.
- Windows 11 23H2 Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise editions will stop receiving security updates next month.
- Windows 11 23H2 Home and Pro editions reached end of support in November 2025.
- Windows 11 26H2 will reach end of support for consumers in October 2029.
- The November 2026 Windows security update will be the last for Windows 11 23H2 Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise editions.
- Windows 11 26H2 is available via a phased rollout to eligible devices with "Get the latest updates as soon as they're available" enabled.
- Windows 11 KB5127648 and KB5126653 are mandatory updates.
- KB5127648 and KB5126653 are for Windows 11 versions 26H2, 25H2, 24H2, and 23H2.
- October 2026 Patch Tuesday updates add new emojis and File Explorer improvements.
- File Explorer preview pane has a 'Preview anyway' button for HTML files.
- Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions reached end of support on October 13, 2026.
- The October 2026 monthly security update is the last for Windows 11 24H2 Home/Pro.
- Windows 10 KB5126657 is an extended security update.
- Windows 10 KB5126657 updates builds to 19045.7807 or 19044.7807.
- October 2026 Patch Tuesday fixed 1,411 vulnerabilities.
- October 2026 Patch Tuesday fixed one actively exploited zero-day flaw.
- October 2026 Patch Tuesday fixed two publicly disclosed zero-day vulnerabilities.
- KB5126657 enables permanent DST support for British Columbia and Alberta starting November 2026.
- October 2026 Patch Tuesday fixed 80 critical flaws.
- October 2026 Patch Tuesday is the first official update for Windows 11 26H2.
- Microsoft released out-of-band Windows updates KB5134133 and KB5134125.
- KB5134133 is for Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H2.
- KB5134125 is for Windows 10 versions 21H2 and 22H2.
- The updates were released on October 26.
- The updates remove trust in certificates linked to compromised eMudhra certificate authority keys.
- The updates protect systems without internet access or automatic certificate trust updates.
- Eight eMudhra intermediate certificate authority private keys were compromised.
- The compromised keys were generated in April 2025.
- The compromised keys had values smaller than 256.
- eMudhra revoked the eight compromised intermediate certificates.
- Mozilla, Google, and Apple also began revoking the certificates.
- Windows 11 KB5127936 preview update released for versions 25H2 and 26H2.
- KB5127936 includes 41 changes and fixes.
- KB5127936 makes the File Explorer context menu faster and customizable.
- Cloud rebuild can reinstall Windows without USB media using an image from Windows Update.
- XBOX mode includes a refreshed Gaming Task View with a new navigation bar.
- KB5127936 can be installed from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
Overview of Windows Security Updates
Microsoft has released cumulative security updates KB5101650 and KB5099414 for Windows 11 versions 25H2/24H2 and 23H2. These updates address a total of 571 vulnerabilities, featuring improvements such as Bluetooth fixes and a Point-in-Time restore feature. For Windows 10, Microsoft issued the KB5099539 update, fixing 570 vulnerabilities and enhancing security further.
Extended Support for Windows 10
Alongside the updates, Microsoft extended the free Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 until October 12, 2027, allowing users to receive crucial security patches for a longer period. This decision ensures continued protection against security threats for both enterprise and consumer users of Windows 10.
End of Support for Older Windows Editions
Windows 11 version 24H2 Home and Pro editions will reach end of support on October 13, 2026. After this date, devices will no longer receive monthly security or non-security preview updates, highlighting the need for users to upgrade to the most current version, Windows 11 25H2.
Impact on Users and Enterprises
Up-to-date security measures and support are critical for both enterprises and individual users, making these updates and changes in support crucial for maintaining system security and functionality. The transition to newer versions like Windows 11 25H2 represents an essential step in leveraging updated security features.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Microsoft's recent updates reflect its commitment to security across its platforms. Users should install the latest updates promptly and consider upgrading to supported versions to ensure continued protection against vulnerabilities.
Updates
- Windows 11 KB5127936 preview update released for versions 25H2 and 26H2.
- KB5127936 includes 41 changes and fixes.
- KB5127936 makes the File Explorer context menu faster and customizable.
- Cloud rebuild can reinstall Windows without USB media using an image from Windows Update.
- XBOX mode includes a refreshed Gaming Task View with a new navigation bar.
- KB5127936 can be installed from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
- Microsoft released out-of-band Windows updates KB5134133 and KB5134125.
- KB5134133 is for Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H2.
- KB5134125 is for Windows 10 versions 21H2 and 22H2.
- The updates were released on October 26.
- The updates remove trust in certificates linked to compromised eMudhra certificate authority keys.
- The updates protect systems without internet access or automatic certificate trust updates.
- Eight eMudhra intermediate certificate authority private keys were compromised.
- The compromised keys were generated in April 2025.
- The compromised keys had values smaller than 256.
- eMudhra revoked the eight compromised intermediate certificates.
- Mozilla, Google, and Apple also began revoking the certificates.
- October 2026 Patch Tuesday fixed 80 critical flaws.
- October 2026 Patch Tuesday is the first official update for Windows 11 26H2.
- Windows 11 KB5127648 and KB5126653 are mandatory updates.
- KB5127648 and KB5126653 are for Windows 11 versions 26H2, 25H2, 24H2, and 23H2.
- October 2026 Patch Tuesday updates add new emojis and File Explorer improvements.
- File Explorer preview pane has a 'Preview anyway' button for HTML files.
- Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions reached end of support on October 13, 2026.
- The October 2026 monthly security update is the last for Windows 11 24H2 Home/Pro.
- Windows 10 KB5126657 is an extended security update.
- Windows 10 KB5126657 updates builds to 19045.7807 or 19044.7807.
- October 2026 Patch Tuesday fixed 1,411 vulnerabilities.
- October 2026 Patch Tuesday fixed one actively exploited zero-day flaw.
- October 2026 Patch Tuesday fixed two publicly disclosed zero-day vulnerabilities.
- KB5126657 enables permanent DST support for British Columbia and Alberta starting November 2026.
- Windows 11 23H2 Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise editions will stop receiving security updates next month.
- Windows 11 23H2 Home and Pro editions reached end of support in November 2025.
- Windows 11 26H2 will reach end of support for consumers in October 2029.
- The November 2026 Windows security update will be the last for Windows 11 23H2 Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise editions.
- Windows 11 26H2 is available via a phased rollout to eligible devices with "Get the latest updates as soon as they're available" enabled.
- Unsupported Windows versions will stop receiving security updates after May and June 2027.
- Windows Update certificates expire on May 17, 2027, and June 19, 2027.
- Windows 11 24H2 and Windows Server 2025 need the September 2025 security update or later.
- Windows 11 was released on October 5, 2021.
- Windows 11 26H2 update is described as "predictable and low-disruption".
- Windows 11 2026 Update (26H2) is rolling out.
- Windows 11 26H2 is this year's annual feature update.
- Microsoft paused the KB5002907 update for Microsoft 365 Apps.
- KB5002907 deactivated or removed perpetual Office 2016 and 2019 installations.
- The issue affected customers with out-of-date Microsoft 365 Apps installations.
- KB5002907 is an optional update for Microsoft 365 Apps installations over 90 days out of date.
- KB5002907 is for Current Channel or Monthly Enterprise Channel users.
- KB5124010 is a non-security preview update for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2.
- KB5124010 includes 46 changes and fixes.
- KB5124010 adds Bluetooth improvements.
- KB5124010 adds Emoji 17.0 support.
- KB5124010 allows remapping the Copilot key.
- KB5124010 adds an "Open apps maximized" accessibility setting.
- KB5124010 adds a recovery remote management plug-in for WinRE.
- KB5124010 fixes an issue where the Bluetooth radio could be off while the toggle showed on.
- KB5124010 fixes crashes with error code 0x139 while streaming Bluetooth audio.
- KB5124010 improves microphone compatibility with certain Bluetooth Classic audio accessories.
- The File History bug affects Windows 10 21H2 or later, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2016/2019, and Windows 11 23H2 and later.
- File History is replaced by Windows Backup.
- File History backs up user account profiles to external or network storage.
- The File History bug causes previously backed-up files to show "No previous version available".
- An optional preview update fixes the File History issue for current Windows 11 versions.
- The File History fix is not available for Windows 11 23H2 or Windows 10.
- September 2026 security updates break the File History backup feature.
- File History backup issues cause application crash events referencing FileHistory.exe and KERNELBASE.dll.
- Affected devices may incorrectly display "Reconnect your drive" messages for File History.
- The "Last Backup" timestamp may not update due to File History issues.
- Windows 11 24H2 Home/Pro will stop receiving updates next month.
- September Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11 reintroduces taskbar movement.
- The update addresses 995 security vulnerabilities.
- KB5124012 is for Windows 11 26H1.
- Windows 10 KB5122878 update is for Enterprise LTSC and ESU program participants.
- Windows 10 KB5122878 updates builds to 19045.7725 or 19044.7725.
- September 2026 Patch Tuesday fixed 966 vulnerabilities, including two zero-day flaws.
- KB5122878 includes additional high confidence device targeting data for Secure Boot certificates.
- Windows 11 cumulative updates KB5124008 and KB5122880 were released.
- Updates KB5124008 and KB5122880 are for Windows 11 versions 25H2, 24H2, and 23H2.
- These updates include September 2026 Patch Tuesday security patches for 1,000 vulnerabilities.
- The updates are mandatory.
- Windows Search without Bing is a new feature in the September 2026 update.
- The taskbar can now appear at the bottom, top, left, or right side of the screen.
- KB5120998 resets desktop settings, including wallpaper and themes.
- KB5120998 can install automatically if certain settings are enabled.
- KB5120998 causes desktop backgrounds to display as a solid black color.
- KB5120998 preview update was released in August 2026.
- KB5120998 resets user-customized mouse cursor settings.
- Users cannot restore previous mouse settings after KB5120998 is installed.
- KB5120998 causes appearance regressions and intermittent animation changes.
- High-DPI mouse cursors are replaced with larger, white cursors by KB5120998.
- Windows 11 KB5120998 preview update released for versions 25H2 and 24H2.
- KB5120998 includes 35 changes, including taskbar position customization.
- KB5120998 adds a smaller taskbar option and Start menu size options.
- KB5120998 is an optional update without security fixes.
- Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 support ends October 13, 2026.
- Windows 11 24H2 Enterprise and Education editions are supported until October 2027.
- Windows 11 25H2 became generally available in September 2024.
- Windows 11 25H2 is a minor update installed via an enablement package.
- Unmanaged Windows 11 24H2 Home/Pro devices will automatically upgrade to 25H2.
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Primary sources
GitHub microsoft/windows-uop GitHub newrelic/newrelic-browser-agent CVE CVE-2026-819637.8 HIGH CVE CVE-2026-858807.8 HIGH GitHub moby/sys CVE CVE-2026-969518.8 HIGHHow outlets covered it
Microsoft released the optional KB5127936 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 26H2, introducing 41 changes and fixes. Key updates include a faster, customizable File Explorer context menu and the ability for Cloud rebuild to reinstall Windows without USB media. This update allows users and IT admins to test new features before the next Patch Tuesday.
Microsoft issued out-of-band Windows updates (KB5134133 and KB5134125) to remove trust in certificates linked to compromised eMudhra certificate authority keys. These updates protect systems without internet access or automatic certificate trust updates, preventing potential certificate forgery and intercepted communications.
Microsoft's October Windows update addresses over 1,400 security vulnerabilities, including 80 critical flaws and two zero-day exploits. This update also marks the final supported update for Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions, requiring users to upgrade to maintain security.
Microsoft released its October 2026 Patch Tuesday updates, addressing a record 1,411 security flaws. The updates include fixes for one actively exploited zero-day vulnerability and two publicly disclosed zero-day vulnerabilities, which is critical for system security.
Microsoft released the Windows 10 KB5126657 extended security update for Enterprise LTSC and ESU program participants. This update includes the October 2026 Patch Tuesday fixes, addressing 1,411 vulnerabilities, including one actively exploited zero-day flaw, along with bug fixes and minor changes.
Microsoft announced that Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions have reached end of support, meaning they will no longer receive monthly security and non-security updates. Users are advised to upgrade to Windows 11 26H2 to continue receiving critical updates and protections.
Microsoft released mandatory cumulative updates KB5127648 and KB5126653 for Windows 11 versions 26H2/25H2/24H2 and 23H2. These updates include October 2026 Patch Tuesday security fixes, new emojis, and File Explorer improvements.
Microsoft announced that Windows 11 23H2 Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise editions will stop receiving security updates in 30 days. Users are advised to upgrade to Windows 11 26H2 to continue receiving security protections.
Microsoft announced that devices running unsupported Windows versions will stop receiving security updates after the Windows Update certificate rotation in May and June 2027. This change requires administrators and users to upgrade to supported Windows versions or install specific updates to maintain access to security patches.
Windows 11 recently passed its five-year release anniversary, reflecting on a period marked by user dissatisfaction over hardware requirements, forced online accounts, and the controversial Copilot+ PC initiative. Microsoft is now shifting focus to optimizing the OS for foundational productivity and gaming tasks. This retrospective highlights Microsoft's repeated missteps in anticipating user needs and market reception for its flagship operating system.
Microsoft has begun rolling out the Windows 11 2026 Update (26H2), which functions more like a monthly cumulative update than a major feature update. This is because most new features have already been delivered through continuous monthly updates, and 26H2 shares a common servicing branch with 24H2 and 25H2.
Microsoft paused the KB5002907 update for Microsoft 365 Apps after it deactivated or removed perpetual Office 2016 and 2019 installations for some users. This issue affected customers with out-of-date Microsoft 365 Apps installations, causing their one-time purchase Office licenses to show as "Unlicensed Product."
Microsoft released the KB5124010 non-security preview update for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2, introducing 46 changes including Bluetooth improvements, Emoji 17.0 support, and the ability to remap the Copilot key. This update allows users to test new features and bug fixes before their general release in next month's Patch Tuesday.
Microsoft released an update to fix a bug that prevented the File History backup feature from working on some Windows 10 and 11 systems after installing the September 2026 security updates. The bug caused backup failures and "Reconnect your drive" alerts, impacting users' ability to back up and restore files.
Microsoft's September security update caused File History to malfunction for some Windows users, preventing backups and displaying errors. An optional preview update is available to fix this issue for current versions of Windows 11, but not for Windows 11 23H2 or Windows 10.
Microsoft has confirmed that its September 2026 security updates are causing the built-in File History backup feature to malfunction on various Windows versions. This issue prevents users from creating or updating backups, potentially leading to data loss if not addressed.
Microsoft announced that Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions will stop receiving updates in October 2026, while Enterprise and Education editions are supported until October 2027. Devices running these editions will no longer receive security and non-security updates after this date, prompting users to upgrade to Windows 11 25H2.
Microsoft's September Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11 reintroduces the ability to move the taskbar to any side of the screen, a feature previously available in Windows 10. This update also addresses 995 security vulnerabilities, marking a record number of fixes in a single release.
Microsoft released the Windows 10 KB5122878 extended security update, which includes September 2026 Patch Tuesday fixes and bug fixes. This update is for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC and ESU program participants, updating builds to 19045.7725 or 19044.7725.
Microsoft has released mandatory cumulative updates KB5124008 and KB5122880 for Windows 11 versions 25H2/24H2 and 23H2. These updates include the September 2026 Patch Tuesday security patches for 1,000 vulnerabilities and introduce new features like a movable taskbar and customizable Start menu sizes.
Microsoft has confirmed that the KB5120998 August 2026 preview update for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 causes desktop settings, including wallpaper, to reset and prevents users from restoring them. This issue affects an optional update, but it can install automatically if certain settings are enabled, impacting user personalization.
Microsoft confirmed that the Windows 11 KB5120998 preview update, released in August 2026, is resetting user-customized mouse cursor settings and preventing their restoration. This issue affects personalization and can lead to appearance regressions and intermittent animation changes for users who install the optional update.
Microsoft released the KB5120998 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2, introducing 35 changes such as taskbar position customization, a smaller taskbar option, and Start menu adjustments. This optional update allows IT administrators to test new features and bug fixes before their wider release.
Microsoft announced that Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions will stop receiving security and non-security updates on October 13, 2026. Users are advised to upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 to continue receiving updates and protection from security threats.
Microsoft released the Windows 10 KB5120249 cumulative update for versions 22H2 and 21H2, addressing security vulnerabilities and bugs. This update resolves a File History backup issue and expands the rollout of new Secure Boot certificates, which matters for system stability and security.
Microsoft has released mandatory cumulative updates KB5121003 and KB5120240 for Windows 11 versions 25H2/24H2 and 23H2, addressing 400 security vulnerabilities and introducing new features. These updates improve File Explorer functionality, enhance Windows Search accuracy, and add Voice Isolation to Voice Access.
Microsoft released the optional KB5101684 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2, which includes 42 bug fixes and new features. This update is part of the monthly non-security preview schedule, allowing users to test upcoming changes before the next Patch Tuesday.
Microsoft will cease updates for Windows 11 version 24H2 Home and Pro editions on October 13, 2026. Users are encouraged to upgrade to version 25H2 to maintain security and receive updates.
Microsoft released the KB5099539 security update for Windows 10, fixing 570 vulnerabilities. The update extends the free Extended Security Updates program for consumers until October 12, 2027, addressing security and compatibility issues.
Microsoft has released cumulative updates KB5101650 for Windows 11 25H2/24H2 and KB5099414 for 23H2. These updates address security vulnerabilities and introduce new features, marking the seventh 'Patch Tuesday' release of 2026.