AMD Ported Branch Prediction Optimization to Windows 11 23H2: Performance Boost without Admin Account

Earlier, Landian.news  mentioned a peculiar bug with AMD processors on Windows 11 systems, where using the system's built-in but by default not enabled Administrator account would yield better CPU performance. Essentially, under default conditions, the performance of administrator accounts created by users themselves actually decreased.

AMD identified this as a performance decline caused by an account permission issue within the Windows NT kernel. Specifically, AMD CPU's branch prediction did not perform optimally under non-Administrator accounts.

To address this issue, AMD released an update to optimize the branch prediction code, which was previously only applicable for Windows 11 24H2 version. Now, AMD has ported it to Windows 11 23H2 version.

Who needs to install this:

If you're using an AMD RYZEN 7000 or 9000 series processor, installing the new branch prediction code optimization can enhance performance. This update is now also applicable for Windows 11 23H2 version.

In the optional update KB5041587 for Windows 11 23H2 version released by Microsoft today, this code is included. By September 10, a stable update containing this code will be rolled out to all Windows 11 23H2 version users.

According to previous tests, after installing this update, AMD CPU performance can increase by about 11%, although specific differences might vary with different hardware combinations. Overall, there should be an improvement.

If you're interested in testing this out early, you can go to system update and click check for updates now. If you see the KB5041587 update, install it. Since this update is of a testing nature, users who prioritize stability may want to wait for the official version to be pushed next month.

AMD's statement on this:

We want to inform you that the branch prediction optimization in Windows 11 24H2 has been backported to Windows 11 23H2 version. Users need to look for KB5041587 in Windows Update, Advanced Options, Optional Updates. We expect the performance improvement between 24H2 and 23H2 versions to be very similar after installing this update.