Microsoft has rolled out an optional update for Windows 11, known as KB5101684, bringing significant performance improvements and new features to versions 25H2 and 24H2. The update, released around July 28-29, 2026, aims to make the operating system feel faster and more reliable for users. It also includes direct download links for offline installers, giving users more flexibility in how they update their systems.This "D" release is a non-security preview update, meaning it is not automatically installed unless users choose to download it.[windowsforum+5]
Performance and User Experience Boosts
The KB5101684 update focuses on improving the overall responsiveness and stability of Windows 11. Users should notice reduced stuttering, fewer program freezes, and more predictable behavior across the system.These performance gains are particularly evident in core Windows components like the Start menu and Task View. The Start menu now reliably remembers user preferences and no longer stutters, even on less powerful computers.Switching between multiple desktops using Task View also shows a noticeable reduction in lag and memory usage.[windowsforum+3]
File Explorer, a tool many users access daily, has received refinements to enhance its functionality.Additionally, Windows Search is smarter, better recognizing typos and partial application names, which helps users find installed software more easily.The relevance of search results within the Settings app has also improved, showing more useful and exact configuration matches higher up.For those with precision touchpads, new controls allow users to adjust scroll and zoom speeds and enable "Accelerated Scrolling," which lets them scroll faster with repeated gestures.[windowsforum+7]
Enhanced Security and Accessibility
Security and accessibility features are also part of this update. Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security (ESS) now supports external fingerprint readers.This means desktop computers, Copilot+ PCs, and other devices without built-in fingerprint sensors can now use supported plug-in fingerprint readers for more secure authentication.This feature was first announced earlier in January 2026 and is now rolling out more broadly.[pureinfotech+7]
For accessibility, Voice Access has expanded its capabilities. It now includes a new "Voice Isolation" option designed to filter out background noise and other speakers during use.This feature requires a one-time voice setup.Microsoft also added Korean language support for Voice Access, improving its global reach and usability.Furthermore, there are reliability improvements for starting Voice Access.The update also continues Microsoft's work on the crucial 2026 Secure Boot certificate transition, which is vital for system security.[windowsforum+8]
IT and Virtualization Improvements
The KB5101684 update also brings important fixes for IT professionals and users in virtualized environments. It improves the reliability of the clipboard in certain Remote Desktop and Azure Virtual Desktop scenarios.Stability for Office applications used in virtualized environments has also been enhanced, particularly when working in and closing those apps.Microsoft's official notes detail these improvements, along with better DHCP renewal behavior in specific network situations and on Modern Standby devices.Printing performance also sees a boost, with improved page-per-minute performance for IPPS printers.[windowsforum+3]
Another notable change for Copilot+ PC users is the ability to uninstall AI components.This provides more control over system resources and installed features. The Windows Setup process now also includes a parental control notice.[pureinfotech+1]
How to Get the Update
This update is optional and will not install automatically.To get KB5101684, users need to open Settings, navigate to Windows Update, and then click the "Download & Install" button when the "2026-07 Preview Update (KB5101684) (26200.8973)" appears.It will update Windows 11 25H2 to Build 26200.8973 and version 24H2 to 26100.8973.Users should ensure the "Get the latest updates as soon as they're available" toggle is turned off if they do not want optional updates to install automatically.[windowslatest+6]
For users who prefer offline installation or need to update multiple computers, Microsoft has provided direct download links for the KB5101684 offline installers (.msu files).These can be found through the Microsoft Update Catalog.This method is especially useful if Windows Update encounters issues or for deploying the update in managed IT environments.The update packages are substantial, with the July 2026 update being almost 5.3GB for regular PCs using Intel and AMD processors, and approximately 4.9GB for ARM-based systems.This large size is partly due to how AI models are bundled and recent changes to the Windows Update system.[windowslatest+7]
This comprehensive update aims to deliver a more efficient, secure, and user-friendly experience for Windows 11 users, addressing various aspects from system performance to accessibility and IT management.
