Microsoft Rolls Out Optional Update KB5044384 for Windows 11 24H2 Users: A Blend of Fixes and Enhancements

Today, Microsoft has released an optional update, KB5044384, for users who have upgraded to Windows 11 version 24H2. This update brings a host of bug fixes and several feature improvements, enhancing the overall user experience.

Key Fixes and Enhancements Included:

Bug Fixes: This update addresses various issues that users have encountered, such as the inability to clear a 8.63GB cache, persistent errors displayed by the System File Checker (SFC) scans, and DirectAccess connectivity issues.

Feature Improvements: Enhancements include a virtual keyboard tailored for game controllers such as Xbox, new notification settings, and a redesigned WiFi password dialogue box adopting the Windows 11 visual design principles.

Caution for Early Adopters:

It's important to note that optional updates like this one may carry potential unforeseen bugs due to their testing nature. If you prioritize system stability, it might be wise to wait for the stable version update scheduled for release next month.

Highlights of the Update:

WiFi Password Dialogue Box: Now featuring Windows 11's visual design, accessible via Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi.

Screen Virtual Keyboard Layout for Game Controllers: Improves the input experience on screen when using controllers like Xbox.

Start Menu Update: The "All apps" in the Start menu is now renamed to "All."

Alt+Tab Window Switching Fix: Addresses an issue where switching windows using Alt + Tab sometimes resulted in a black screen for a few seconds.

Scanner Detection Fix: Solves a problem where some scanners were not properly detected by scanning applications despite being successfully connected.

Further Improvements and Fixes:

Web Login Fix: Resolves an issue preventing users from logging into their Microsoft account due to the screen becoming unresponsive.

Windows Update Cleanup Error: Corrects an error related to an 8.63GB cache that would incorrectly display as not cleared, when in fact it was.

Addition of Detach Button for VHD/VHDx: A detach button for virtual hard disks is now included in Settings > System > Storage > Disks & Volumes, and is being gradually rolled out.

UTF-8 WiFi Names Support: The `netsh wlan show network` command can now read WiFi names in UTF-8, including those with Emoji characters.

Windows Sandbox Updates: Introduces clipboard redirection, audio/video input control, and folder sharing with the host in the sandbox feature, now in preview.

Miscellaneous Fixes:

Includes corrections for unnecessary creation of real-time kernel dump files, critical errors in Winlogon during shutdown, persistent errors with the `sfc /scannow` command, updates to the DriverSiPolicy.p7b file adding more vulnerable drivers to the list, fixes for S4U2self authentication issues, and resolution of perpetual "connecting" status in DirectAccess connections.

Download Information:

For those interested in the offline installation package, it can be downloaded from: https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=KB5044384