Microsoft has released Windows 11 KB5074105, a non-security preview update that fixes a long-standing File Explorer freeze affecting some Windows 11 systems. The update targets versions 24H2 and 25H2 and is now available through Windows Update as an optional install.
The most important fix addresses a bug where Explorer.exe froze during first login, leaving users without a taskbar, desktop, or access to system apps. Microsoft confirms that the issue occurred when certain startup applications interfered with the Windows shell during sign-in. After installing KB5074105, affected systems now load the desktop and taskbar correctly instead of locking users out of the interface.
Explorer.exe Login Freeze Finally Resolved
On impacted PCs, Windows previously booted into an unusable state right after login. Users could not open apps, access settings, or interact with the desktop at all. The new update fixes the startup conflict that caused Explorer.exe to stop responding during the first sign-in session.
See also: Microsoft Releases Windows 11 KB5074105 Preview With Critical Boot, Sign-In, and Activation Fixes
This change directly improves system usability, especially for users who experienced the issue on every restart. Once the fix applies, Windows completes login normally and restores full desktop functionality.
Shutdown Problems Still Affect Secure Launch and VBS Systems
Despite the Explorer fix, KB5074105 does not resolve all known Windows 11 issues. Systems that use Secure Launch and Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) still experience shutdown-related problems. These issues originated from earlier updates and remain unresolved in this release.
Microsoft has not published a workaround yet for Secure Launch shutdown failures. Users who rely on these security features should monitor future updates before applying the preview build.
Camera and Lock Screen Issues Still Reported
Some users continue to report camera issues and lock screen glitches after installing KB5074105. Microsoft states that it is not currently aware of widespread new issues, but user reports suggest that stability varies by device configuration.
Because this update is optional, Microsoft recommends installing it mainly if your system suffered from Explorer freezes or startup instability.
How to Install KB5074105
You can install KB5074105 through Windows Update under optional updates. Microsoft also provides standalone installers via the Update Catalog for manual deployment. For managed systems, Microsoft recommends installing the combined servicing stack update and cumulative update together to avoid installation conflicts.
Secure Boot Certificate Expiration Warning
Microsoft also reminds users that Windows Secure Boot certificates begin expiring in June 2026. Devices that do not receive updated certificates may fail to boot securely in the future. Microsoft advises users and IT administrators to review certificate update guidance and apply updates well before expiration to avoid disruptions.
KB5074105 delivers a meaningful fix for one of Windows 11’s most disruptive login bugs. At the same time, unresolved Secure Launch shutdown issues limit its appeal for security-focused systems. Users affected by Explorer freezes will benefit immediately, while others may prefer to wait for a fully patched release.
