Windows 11 has received new Release Preview builds for Insiders, introducing fresh features, deeper security tools, and performance improvements across the system.
Microsoft has rolled out Build 26100.7918 and Build 26200.7918 (KB5077241) to the Release Preview Channel for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 . These updates include both gradual and normal rollout features, meaning some changes will appear immediately while others will reach devices in phases.
Emoji 16.0 Arrives in Windows 11
Microsoft has added Emoji 16.0 to Windows 11. The update introduces a curated set of new emojis across major categories. You can access them directly through the emoji panel.
This update keeps Windows aligned with the latest Unicode standards and enhances messaging, productivity, and creative workflows.
Windows Backup Restore Expands to More Devices
Microsoft has expanded the first sign-in restore experience under Windows Backup for Organizations .
Now, when users sign in for the first time on:
- Microsoft Entra hybrid joined devices
- Cloud PCs
- Multi-user environments
Windows automatically restores user settings and Microsoft Store apps.
This feature simplifies device refreshes, upgrades, and migrations while maintaining a consistent setup process.
Quick Machine Recovery Turns On Automatically for Pro Devices
Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) now activates automatically on Windows Professional devices that are not domain-joined or enterprise-managed .
Previously, this recovery feature focused mainly on Home users. Now, standalone Pro devices receive the same recovery protections. Enterprise-managed systems still require organizational enablement.
Built-In Network Speed Test from the Taskbar
Windows 11 now includes a built-in network speed test directly accessible from the taskbar .
Users can:
- Open Quick Settings (Wi-Fi or Cellular)
- Right-click the network icon in the system tray
The speed test launches in the default browser and measures Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Cellular performance. This addition removes the need to search for third-party speed testing tools during troubleshooting.
Native Sysmon Integration Strengthens Security
One of the most important updates in this build is the integration of Sysmon functionality directly into Windows.
Sysmon allows administrators to capture detailed system events that support threat detection. The events write to the Windows Event Log and work with security monitoring tools.
Key details:
- Built-in Sysmon is disabled by default
- You must enable it via Optional Features or DISM
- If you previously installed Sysmon manually, uninstall it first
This move simplifies deployment and strengthens built-in security visibility.
Microsoft Entra ID Improvements
Windows now supports Microsoft Entra ID group and role SID resolution .
This update allows Windows to translate Entra cloud group and role security identifiers (SIDs) into readable names. As a result, Entra-only groups display properly in:
- File permissions
- Local group memberships
- Access control scenarios
This improvement reduces dependency on on-premises Active Directory.
Camera Controls and .webp Wallpaper Support
Microsoft added new pan and tilt controls for supported cameras directly inside Settings.
Users can also now set .webp image files as desktop backgrounds from:
- Settings > Personalization > Background
- Right-click menu in File Explorer
This expands modern image format support across the OS.
File Explorer and Taskbar Enhancements
This update improves File Explorer reliability and usability:
- Adds “Extract All” option for non-ZIP archives
- Fixes multi-instance opening issues
- Improves Network page device visibility
The taskbar also sees refinement. When set to uncombined mode, Windows handles overflow more intelligently instead of moving all grouped windows at once.
Performance and Reliability Improvements
Microsoft focused heavily on performance tuning in this release:
- Faster temporary file scanning
- Improved Windows Update settings responsiveness
- Better login screen reliability
- Improved Nearby Sharing for large files
- Enhanced display resume-from-sleep performance
- Smoother print service performance
- Improved projection pane reliability
These changes target real-world usability rather than headline features.
Windows 11 Release Preview build 26100.7918 Rollout Details
Microsoft is delivering some features through a gradual rollout, meaning availability may vary by device. Other improvements roll out broadly at the same time.
If you are in the Release Preview Channel, you can check for updates through:
Settings > Windows Update
These Release Preview builds may not introduce flashy UI redesigns, but they bring meaningful improvements to security, performance, and manageability.
The addition of native Sysmon support, Entra SID resolution, built-in network testing, and restore expansion shows Microsoft’s focus on enterprise readiness while still improving everyday Windows reliability.
For IT admins and power users, this update carries more depth than it initially appears.
