Microsoft’s February 2025 cumulative update for Windows 11, designated as KB5051987, has introduced critical issues affecting File Explorer functionality and overall system stability for users on version 24H2.
While the update aimed to address existing bugs, it has inadvertently led to new complications, prompting widespread concern among the Windows community.
File Explorer Malfunctions Post-Update
Following the installation of KB5051987, numerous users have reported that File Explorer becomes unresponsive or fails to launch entirely.
Essential folders such as Documents and Pictures are inaccessible, and attempts to open File Explorer via desktop shortcuts or the Windows Search function are unsuccessful.
Despite these issues, the Task Manager indicates that the explorer.exe process is active, suggesting a malfunction within the File Explorer interface itself.
This problem has been corroborated by multiple reports, including user experiences shared on platforms like Reddit.
Installation Failures and System Crashes
Beyond File Explorer issues, users have encountered difficulties during the installation of KB5051987. Some installations stall at specific percentages, while others result in error messages such as 0x80070003.
In more severe cases, the update has led to system crashes, including Blue Screens of Death (BSOD), and has rendered some Windows 11 installations inoperable. Discussions on Microsoft’s Q&A forums highlight these installation challenges, with users expressing frustration over repeated failures and system instability.
Peripheral and Performance Issues
Additional complications arising from the KB5051987 update include:
- Camera Malfunctions: Users have reported that their cameras cease functioning post-update, with applications failing to detect the hardware.
- Mouse Lag and Stuttering: There are accounts of erratic mouse movements and input delays, adversely affecting user productivity.
- General Performance Degradation: Some systems experience sluggishness, with applications responding slower than usual.
These issues have been documented in various user reports and discussions across tech forums.
Recommended Actions for Affected Users
For those experiencing problems after installing KB5051987, the following steps are advised:
- Uninstall the Update: Navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Update History > Uninstall Updates. Locate KB5051987 in the list, select it, and choose ‘Uninstall’. Restart the system afterward.
- Pause Further Updates: To prevent the problematic update from reinstalling, pause updates temporarily by going to Settings > Windows Update > Pause Updates, selecting a suitable duration.
- Disable Windows Sandbox (For Pro Users): Some users have found that disabling Windows Sandbox mitigates the File Explorer issue. To do this, go to Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows features on or off, uncheck ‘Windows Sandbox’, and restart the computer.
Summary of Issues and Potential Solutions
| Issue | Description | Potential Solution |
|---|---|---|
| File Explorer Unresponsiveness | Folders fail to open; File Explorer doesn’t launch. | Uninstall KB5051987; disable Windows Sandbox (Pro users). |
| Installation Failures | Update stalls or returns error codes (e.g., 0x80070003). | Clear SoftwareDistribution folder; perform in-place upgrade. |
| System Crashes (BSOD) | System crashes post-update installation. | Uninstall KB5051987; restore system to a previous state. |
| Peripheral Malfunctions | Cameras not detected; mouse lag and stuttering. | Roll back the update; update or reinstall device drivers. |
| Performance Degradation | Overall system sluggishness and delayed application responses. | Uninstall the update; check for conflicting third-party applications. |
FAQs
What is KB5051987?
KB5051987 is the February 2025 cumulative update for Windows 11 version 24H2, intended to address existing bugs and enhance system performance.
Why is File Explorer not working after the update?
The update has introduced a bug causing File Explorer to become unresponsive or fail to launch, affecting access to essential folders.
How can I fix installation errors related to KB5051987?
To resolve installation issues, try clearing the SoftwareDistribution folder, performing an in-place upgrade, or uninstalling the update if already installed.