Windows 11 January 2026 Update Problems: How to Fix KB5074109 Issues (SOLVED)

URGENT UPDATE – January 30, 2026: Microsoft’s January 2026 Windows 11 update (KB5074109) is causing serious problems for thousands of users worldwide. PCs won’t shut down, apps are freezing, and some computers won’t even boot.

If your Windows 11 computer is experiencing issues after the recent update, you’re not alone—and more importantly, there are solutions.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through every known problem with the January 2026 Windows update and provide step-by-step fixes that actually work. Whether your PC won’t shut down, apps are crashing, or you’re facing the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), this guide has you covered.

What’s Wrong with the January 2026 Windows 11 Update?

On January 13, 2026, Microsoft released its monthly Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 11. What should have been routine security patches turned into a nightmare for many users.

The problematic updates:

• KB5074109 (Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2)
• KB5073455 (Windows 11 23H2)

Microsoft has since released TWO emergency out-of-band (OOB) updates attempting to fix the issues:

• KB5077744 (First emergency fix – January 22, 2026)
• KB5078127 (Second emergency fix – January 24, 2026)

Unfortunately, these emergency patches haven’t resolved all problems, and in some cases, have created new issues.

Critical Problems Reported

Based on reports from users and Microsoft’s own acknowledgments, here are the main issues:

1. PCs Won’t Shut Down or Restart (CRITICAL)

Symptoms:

• Click “Shut down” but PC stays on
• Screen goes black but fans/lights remain active
• “Restarting…” message stays indefinitely
• Have to force shutdown by holding power button

Who’s affected:

• Windows 11 version 23H2 users with Secure Launch enabled
• Specific KB: KB5073455

Microsoft’s official statement: “After installing the January 13, 2026, Windows security update for Windows 11, version 23H2, some PCs with Secure Launch enabled might not be able to shut down or hibernate properly.”

2. OneDrive and Cloud Storage Apps Crash

Symptoms:

• OneDrive won’t open files
• Dropbox freezes when saving
• Google Drive Desktop app crashes
• “Application not responding” errors
• Files won’t sync

Who’s affected:

• All Windows 11 versions (23H2, 24H2, 25H2)
• Windows 10 22H2 also affected

According to Microsoft’s support documentation, “After installing the Windows update released on and after January 13, 2026, some applications became unresponsive or encountered unexpected errors when opening files from or saving files to cloud-based storage, such as OneDrive or Dropbox.”

3. Windows 365 Cloud PC Login Failures

Symptoms:

• Can’t sign into Cloud PC sessions
• Credential prompts fail
• Azure Virtual Desktop connection errors
• Windows App sign-in failures

Who’s affected:

• Business users on Windows 365
• Azure Virtual Desktop users
• Remote Desktop users

4. Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) and Boot Failures

Symptoms:

• PC won’t boot after update
• BSOD error: UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME
• Stuck on “Restarting…” screen
• Boot loop (restarts repeatedly)
• Black screen with cursor

Who’s affected:

• Windows 11 Enterprise users
• IoT Enterprise systems
• Some consumer PCs with specific configurations

Users on Microsoft’s Q&A forums report: “After KB5074109 was installed, the main symptom was that my Windows 11 Pro PC experienced screen freezing and restart/shutdown problems.”

5. System Freezes and Unresponsiveness

Symptoms:

• Random system freezes (30+ seconds)
• Mouse cursor moves but nothing responds
• Task Manager won’t open
• Have to force restart

Who’s affected:

• Various configurations
• More common on older hardware

6. Application Crashes

Symptoms:

• Microsoft Office apps crash unexpectedly
• Outlook won’t open emails
• Adobe apps hang on launch
• Third-party software errors

Who Is Most Affected?

Based on reports and Microsoft’s acknowledgments:

Highest Risk: ✅ Windows 11 version 23H2 with Secure Launch ✅ Systems using OneDrive or Dropbox actively ✅ Business users on Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop ✅ Users who skipped December 2025 update (KB5072033) ✅ Enterprise and IoT installations

Lower Risk:

• Fresh Windows 11 24H2/25H2 installations
• Home users with default settings
• Systems fully updated before January 2026

Immediate Fixes: What to Do Right Now

If you’re experiencing problems, follow these solutions in order.

Fix 1: Install Microsoft’s Latest Emergency Update

Microsoft has released out-of-band updates to address some issues. Install them immediately.

For Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2:

• Update: KB5074109 260114_07451 (Known Issue Rollback)

For Windows 11 23H2:

• Update: KB5073455 260114_09101 (Known Issue Rollback)

For Windows 10 22H2:

• Update: KB5073724 20260114_11451 (Known Issue Rollback)

How to install:

1. Check for updates:
   • Go to Settings → Windows Update
   • Click “Check for updates”
   • Install any available updates
2. Manual download (if Windows Update isn’t working):
   • Visit Microsoft Update Catalog
   • Search for your KB number
   • Download and install manually
3. Restart your PC after installation

Important: These Known Issue Rollbacks reverse some changes from KB5074109 without fully removing the update.

Fix 2: Uninstall the Problematic Update

If the emergency updates don’t help, remove KB5074109 entirely.

Step-by-step:

1. Open Settings
   • Press Windows Key + I
2. Go to Windows Update
   • Click “Windows Update” (left sidebar)
   • Click “Update history”
3. Uninstall updates
   • Scroll down and click “Uninstall updates”
   • Find KB5074109 (or KB5073455 for 23H2)
   • Click it, then click “Uninstall”
   • Confirm and restart

Alternative method (if Settings won’t open):

1. Press Windows Key + R
2. Type: appwiz.cpl and press Enter
3. Click “View installed updates” (left sidebar)
4. Find KB5074109, right-click, select “Uninstall”

After uninstalling:

• Your PC should return to normal
• Pause updates temporarily (see Fix 6)

Fix 3: Use System Restore

If your PC is unstable or won’t boot properly, System Restore can roll back to before the update.

How to use System Restore:

If Windows boots:

1. Search “Create a restore point” in Start menu
2. Click “System Restore”
3. Choose a restore point from before January 13, 2026
4. Follow the wizard
5. Let it restore (takes 15-30 minutes)
6. PC will restart automatically

If Windows won’t boot:

1. Force Windows Recovery:
   • Turn PC on
   • When you see Windows logo, hold power button to force shutdown
   • Repeat 2-3 times
   • Windows will boot to Recovery Environment
2. In Recovery Environment:
   • Click “Troubleshoot”
   • Click “Advanced options”
   • Click “System Restore”
   • Choose restore point before January 13, 2026
   • Follow prompts

What System Restore does:

• Removes problematic updates
• Reverses system changes
• DOES NOT delete your files
• DOES remove apps installed after restore point

As one affected user noted: “I resorted to rolling back to a restore point just before the first update (KB5074109) was installed. This seems to have resolved the issues.”

Fix 4: Fix Shutdown Issues (For 23H2 Users)

If your Windows 11 23H2 PC won’t shut down, this specific fix addresses the Secure Launch issue.

Quick fix:

1. Disable Secure Launch temporarily:
   • Restart PC
   • Enter BIOS/UEFI (usually press F2, F12, or Delete during startup)
   • Find “Secure Launch” or “System Guard Secure Launch”
   • Disable it
   • Save and exit BIOS
2. Check if shutdown works:
   • Try shutting down normally
   • If it works, keep Secure Launch disabled until Microsoft fixes the issue

Alternative – Using Group Policy:

1. Press Windows Key + R
2. Type: gpedit.msc and press Enter (Note: Not available in Home edition)
3. Navigate to: Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update
4. Find the Known Issue Rollback policy for KB5073455
5. Enable it
6. Restart PC

Fix 5: Fix Cloud Storage App Crashes

If OneDrive, Dropbox, or other cloud apps won’t work:

Temporary workaround:

1. Close cloud storage apps:
   • Right-click app icon in system tray
   • Select “Quit” or “Exit”
2. Open files locally:
   • Navigate to your cloud storage folder
   • Open files with desktop apps (not through cloud app)
   • Save files normally
3. Install emergency update:
   • Install KB5078127 (Second OOB update)
   • Specifically addresses cloud app issues
   • Restart PC after installation

If problem persists:

1. Reinstall cloud storage app:
   • Uninstall OneDrive/Dropbox
   • Restart PC
   • Download fresh installer from official website
   • Reinstall
2. Clear app cache:
   • For OneDrive: Press Windows Key + RType: %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDriveDelete contents (not the folder itself)Restart OneDrive

Fix 6: Pause Windows Updates Temporarily

Prevent additional problematic updates while Microsoft works on permanent fixes.

How to pause updates:

1. Settings → Windows Update
2. Click “Pause updates”
3. Select “Pause for 5 weeks” (maximum available)

Set specific pause date:

1. In Windows Update settings
2. Click “Advanced options”
3. Under “Pause updates,” choose date (up to 5 weeks)

Why pause:

• Gives Microsoft time to release proper fixes
• Prevents additional broken updates
• You can manually install important security patches

Important: Don’t stay paused indefinitely. Check back February 2026 for fixed updates.

Fix 7: Boot to Safe Mode (For Severe Issues)

If your PC is barely usable or won’t boot normally:

How to boot Safe Mode:

Method 1: From Settings (if Windows loads)

1. Settings → System → Recovery
2. Under “Advanced startup,” click “Restart now”
3. PC restarts to Recovery Environment
4. Choose: Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart
5. Press 4 or F4 for “Enable Safe Mode”

Method 2: Force Recovery Environment

1. Turn PC on
2. When logo appears, hold power button to force shutdown
3. Repeat 2-3 times
4. Windows enters Recovery Environment automatically
5. Follow steps above

In Safe Mode:

• Uninstall KB5074109 (Settings → Windows Update → Update history)
• Run System Restore
• Install emergency updates
• Disable Secure Launch via Registry: Press Windows Key + RType: regeditNavigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceGuardFind "EnableVirtualizationBasedSecurity"Set value to 0Restart

Advanced Troubleshooting

If basic fixes don’t work, try these advanced solutions.

Fix 8: Repair Windows Installation

Using DISM and SFC:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
   • Search “cmd” in Start menu
   • Right-click, select “Run as administrator”
2. Run DISM repair: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth Wait 10-30 minutes (downloads repair files)
3. Run System File Checker: sfc /scannow Wait 15-45 minutes
4. Restart PC

What this does:

• Repairs corrupted Windows system files
• Fixes broken update components
• Resolves many unexplained crashes

Fix 9: Check Hardware Issues

Sometimes update problems reveal underlying hardware issues.

Check disk for errors:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
2. Run: chkdsk C: /f /r
3. Type “Y” when asked to schedule scan
4. Restart PC (scan runs during boot)

Check RAM:

1. Search “Windows Memory Diagnostic” in Start menu
2. Click “Restart now and check for problems”
3. PC restarts and tests RAM (10-20 minutes)
4. Results shown after restart

Check drive health:

Download CrystalDiskInfo (free):

• Check if your drive is failing
• Look for warnings or bad sectors
• If health is poor, backup immediately

Consider upgrading to SSD if on old HDD: Best SSDs for Windows 11 in 2026

Fix 10: Clean Windows Update Components

Corrupted update files can cause persistent issues.

Reset Windows Update components:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
2. Stop Windows Update services: net stop wuauserv net stop cryptSvc net stop bits net stop msiserver
3. Rename software distribution folders: ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
4. Restart services: net start wuauserv net start cryptSvc net start bits net start msiserver
5. Try Windows Update again

What this does:

• Clears cached updates
• Forces fresh download
• Resolves stuck or corrupted updates

How to Prevent Future Update Problems

Learn from this disaster and protect yourself next time.

1. Create Regular System Restore Points

Set up automatic restore points:

1. Search “Create a restore point” in Start
2. Click your C: drive
3. Click “Configure”
4. Enable “Turn on system protection”
5. Allocate 5-10% of disk space
6. Click “Create” to make restore point now

Create manual restore points:

• Before major updates
• Before installing new software
• After successful updates (while system is stable)

2. Enable Storage Sense for Backups

Back up important files:

Use Backblaze (€99/year, unlimited) or Google Drive for automatic cloud backups.

Local backups:

• Use external hard drive (WD Elements 2TB – €70)
• Windows File History (Settings → Update & Security → Backup)
• Weekly backups minimum

See our complete guide: How to Store Important Files So You Never Lose Them

3. Wait 1-2 Weeks Before Installing Major Updates

The “wait and see” approach:

• Don’t install Patch Tuesday updates immediately
• Wait 1-2 weeks for bug reports
• Check tech news sites before updating
• Install once confirmed stable

How to delay updates:

1. Settings → Windows Update → Advanced options
2. Set “Quality updates” to defer 1-2 weeks
3. Feature updates can be deferred longer

4. Use Multiple Recovery Options

Keep these ready:

✅ USB recovery drive

• Create in: Settings → Update & Security → Recovery
• Use 8GB+ USB drive
• Update annually

✅ Windows installation media

• Download from Microsoft
• Keep on USB drive
• Use for repairs and clean installs

✅ System image backups

• Complete backup of working system
• Use after stable update
• Restore in minutes if updates break

5. Keep Your System Updated (But Smart About It)

Balance security with stability:

✅ Do install:

• Security updates (after 1-2 week wait)
• Critical patches for zero-day exploits
• Driver updates from manufacturers

❌ Avoid:

• Optional “preview” updates
• Day-one feature updates
• Updates during critical work periods

What Microsoft Says About These Issues

Microsoft has acknowledged the problems and is working on permanent fixes.

Official responses:

According to recent reports, Microsoft has confirmed multiple issues affecting Windows 11 after the January 2026 updates, including problems affecting systems running Windows 11 version 23H2, where affected PCs may no longer shut down properly.

Timeline of Microsoft’s response:

• January 13, 2026: KB5074109 released (Patch Tuesday)
• January 15-20, 2026: User complaints flood support forums
• January 22, 2026: First emergency update (KB5077744) released
• January 24, 2026: Second emergency update (KB5078127) released
• January 25-29, 2026: Microsoft confirms BSOD and boot issues
• January 30, 2026: Known Issue Rollbacks released

Microsoft’s recommended actions:

1. Install Known Issue Rollback updates
2. Use Group Policy workarounds (for Enterprise)
3. Uninstall problematic updates if issues persist
4. Wait for February 2026 Patch Tuesday for comprehensive fix

Alternative: Downgrade to Windows 10 (If All Else Fails)

If Windows 11 continues causing problems and you’re within 10 days of upgrading from Windows 10:

Roll back to Windows 10:

1. Settings → System → Recovery
2. Under “Recovery options,” find “Go back”
3. Click “Go back” button
4. Follow prompts (takes 20-40 minutes)

After 10-day window:

You’ll need to clean install Windows 10:

1. Backup all files
2. Download Windows 10 Media Creation Tool
3. Create installation media
4. Boot from USB and install Windows 10

Considerations:

• Windows 10 support ends October 14, 2025
• Extended Security Updates available for 3 years (paid)
• May lose access to Windows 11-only features

Expected Fix Timeline

Based on Microsoft’s update schedule:

February 11, 2026 (Patch Tuesday):

• Comprehensive fixes likely included
• Should resolve all January update issues
• Wait for user reports before installing

March 2026:

• Additional refinements if needed
• Should be fully stable by then

Recommendation: If you’ve successfully fixed your PC, pause updates until February 11, then cautiously update after waiting a few days for reports.

Should You Update to Windows 11 Right Now?

If you haven’t updated yet: ❌ Don’t update until February 2026 ✅ Keep Windows 10 for now (if available) ✅ Wait for Microsoft to fix these issues

If you’re on older Windows 11 version: ❌ Don’t install January 2026 updates yet ✅ Pause updates for 5 weeks ✅ Wait for confirmed stable release

If you already updated and have no issues: ✅ Lucky you! Create restore point immediately ✅ Pause further updates for now ✅ Monitor for delayed symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will uninstalling the update delete my files? A: No. Uninstalling updates only removes system changes, not your personal files. Your documents, photos, and programs remain intact.

Q: How long will Microsoft take to fix this? A: Based on past incidents, a comprehensive fix should arrive with February 2026 Patch Tuesday (February 11, 2026). Emergency patches may come sooner.

Q: Can I just ignore the update? A: You can pause updates for up to 5 weeks. However, security patches are important. Balance safety with stability by waiting for confirmed fixes.

Q: Is this affecting Windows 10? A: Yes, Windows 10 22H2 users are experiencing similar cloud storage issues with KB5074109. The same fixes apply.

Q: Should I disable Windows Update permanently? A: No. Security updates protect your PC from hackers and malware. Pause temporarily, but resume updates once issues are resolved.

Q: My PC won’t boot at all. What do I do? A: Follow Fix 3 (System Restore from Recovery Environment) or Fix 7 (Safe Mode). If those don’t work, you may need professional help or Windows reinstallation.

Q: Will this happen again with future updates? A: Microsoft has quality control issues, but not every update is problematic. Following prevention tips (waiting 1-2 weeks, creating restore points) protects you.

Q: Can I sue Microsoft for data loss/downtime? A: Check Microsoft’s terms of service. Generally, you accept risks when using software. Always maintain backups.

Final Thoughts: Lessons Learned

The January 2026 Windows 11 update disaster reminds us why backups and caution are critical.

Key takeaways:

1. Never update immediately – Wait 1-2 weeks after Patch Tuesday
2. Always have restore points – Create them before updates
3. Back up regularly – Use cloud and local backups
4. Know recovery options – Practice Safe Mode and System Restore before emergencies
5. Stay informed – Check tech news before updating

If you’re currently affected:

✅ Uninstall KB5074109 (Fix 2) ✅ Use System Restore if needed (Fix 3) ✅ Pause updates for 5 weeks (Fix 6) ✅ Wait for February 2026 fixes ✅ Create backup of working system

For everyone else:

⚠️ Don’t install January 2026 Windows updates yet ⚠️ Wait until February for confirmed stable release ⚠️ Follow this blog for updates when fixes arrive

Stay updated:

Bookmark this page and check back for updates as Microsoft releases fixes. I’ll update this guide with new information as the situation develops.

Related Guides

Having other Windows problems?

• How to Speed Up a Slow Laptop Without Buying a New One
• How to Fix Windows Blue Screen Errors (Complete Guide)
• Windows 11 vs Windows 10: Should You Upgrade in 2026?
• Best SSDs to Upgrade Your Windows 11 PC

Need better hardware to avoid update issues?

• Best Laptops for Windows 11 in 2026
• How to Upgrade RAM in Your Laptop
• Best External Hard Drives for Windows Backup

Last updated: January 30, 2026

Did this guide help you? Share your experience in the comments below. Let others know which fix worked for you!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase products through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products that genuinely help solve PC problems.