Windows 11 KB5074109 Update (January 13, 2026): What’s New, How to Install, and Known Issues
Microsoft has released the Windows 11 January 2026 cumulative update (KB5074109), and it’s an important one. The update delivers critical security fixes, battery and performance improvements, and system reliability changes for both Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2.
Like most Patch Tuesday releases, KB5074109 installs automatically for many users. However, early reports also point to issues with Outlook, Remote Desktop, and display stability on some systems.
In this guide, we break down what KB5074109 includes, how to install it safely, and the known problems to watch for, so you can decide when and how to update your PC.
What Is Windows 11 KB5074109?
KB5074109 is a cumulative security and quality update released on January 13, 2026, as part of Microsoft’s monthly Patch Tuesday cycle.
After installation:
- Windows 11 25H2 updates to Build 26200.7623
- Windows 11 24H2 updates to Build 26100.7623
As a cumulative update, KB5074109 includes all previously released fixes, along with new security patches and improvements introduced in January 2026.
What’s Included in the Windows 11 KB5074109 January 2026 Update?
Security Fixes in KB5074109
Performance and Battery Improvements
KB5074109 resolves an issue where devices with Neural Processing Units (NPUs) could experience unnecessary battery drain. In earlier builds, the NPU remained powered during idle states. This update corrects that behavior and improves overall power efficiency, particularly on newer AI-enabled laptops.
Secure Boot Certificate Updates
Microsoft continues its rollout of updated Secure Boot certificates to prepare for upcoming certificate expirations. These updates help maintain system integrity and compatibility with modern security standards. The rollout is gradual and may not appear on all devices immediately.
Other Quality and Reliability Fixes
Additional improvements include:
- Removal of outdated modem drivers
- Updates to internal system components to improve stability and compatibility
- General reliability improvements carried forward from prior preview builds
While this is not a feature-heavy update, it focuses on strengthening the core Windows 11 experience.
How to Install the Windows 11 KB5074109 Update
Install KB5074109 Using Windows Update
For most users, the update installs automatically.
- Open Settings
- Go to Windows Update
- Click Check for updates
- Install 2026-01 Security Update for Windows 11 (KB5074109)
- Restart your PC when prompted
How to Download KB5074109 Manually
If Windows Update does not offer the patch, or you prefer offline installation:
- Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog
- Search for KB5074109
- Download the correct version for your system (x64 or ARM64)
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions
This method is often used in enterprise or managed environments.
How to Check If KB5074109 Is Installed
After rebooting:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update history and look for KB5074109
- Or press Win + R, type winver, and confirm your Windows build number
Known Issues in Windows 11 KB5074109
Despite the improvements, some users have reported issues after installing this update.
Outlook Freezing or Not Responding (POP Accounts)
Some users report that Outlook becomes unresponsive, particularly when using classic POP email accounts. Microsoft has acknowledged this issue and is working on a fix.
Remote Desktop and Azure Virtual Desktop Issues
There have been reports of Remote Desktop authentication failures, especially when using the Windows Remote Desktop app or Azure Virtual Desktop. In some cases, follow-up fixes have already been released.
Black Screen or Display Problems After Update
A small number of systems experience brief black screens or display flickering. These issues are often linked to graphics drivers and may require updating the Nvidia or AMD GPU drivers.
Shutdown or Hibernation Problems
On certain configurations, devices may fail to shut down or enter hibernation properly, instead restarting. Microsoft has released additional updates to address this on affected systems.
Should You Install Windows 11 KB5074109?
For most users, yes. KB5074109 includes important security fixes and meaningful reliability improvements, making it an essential update for keeping Windows 11 secure.
If you rely on legacy software, Remote Desktop, or POP-based Outlook accounts, consider testing the update first or ensuring you have a rollback plan in place.
Still running an older version of Windows? Upgrade to Windows 11 today for better security and performance.
FAQ About Windows 11 KB5074109 Update: What’s New, How to Install & Issues
What is Windows 11 KB5074109?
KB5074109 is a cumulative security and quality update released by Microsoft on January 13, 2026, as part of the monthly Patch Tuesday cycle. It applies to supported versions of Windows 11, including 24H2 and 25H2. The update includes fixes for security vulnerabilities, performance improvements, and reliability enhancements. It also bundles all previously released updates into a single package.
Is KB5074109 a mandatory update?
Yes, KB5074109 is considered a mandatory update because it contains important security fixes. For most users, it will download and install automatically through Windows Update unless updates are paused. Organizations using update management tools may control their deployment. Skipping the update could leave systems exposed to known security risks.
What problems have been reported with KB5074109?
Some users have reported issues after installing KB5074109, including Outlook freezing when using POP email accounts. Others have experienced Remote Desktop connection problems, brief black screen display issues, or shutdown and hibernation failures. Not all systems are affected, and Microsoft has acknowledged several of these issues. In some cases, follow-up fixes have already been released.
Can I uninstall KB5074109 if it causes issues?
Yes, KB5074109 can be uninstalled if it causes serious problems on your system. You can remove it by going to Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates and selecting KB5074109. However, uninstalling the update will also remove important security patches. It’s recommended to reinstall the update once Microsoft provides a fix.
How do I know if KB5074109 is installed on my PC?
You can confirm installation by opening Settings > Windows Update > Update history and checking for KB5074109 in the list. Another option is to press Win + R, type winver, and verify that your Windows build number matches the KB5074109 release. Both methods help ensure your system is fully up to date.
