Microsoft has released a critical out-of-band update for Windows 11, identified as KB5061977 (OS Build 26100.4066), issued on May 27, 2025. This update addresses several important stability and security issues that impact a range of Windows 11 functionalities, including system reliability, security features, and key components used in enterprise environments.

Key Fixes and Improvements

  • System Stability: The update resolves critical Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors such as the 0x18B SECURE_KERNEL_ERROR that has been a significant issue following the April 2025 security update. This fix improves overall system stability and reduces unexpected crashes.

  • Networking and Connectivity: DHCP client connectivity issues which caused intermittent internet connectivity after sleep mode have been addressed, improving network reliability especially important for remote and enterprise users.

  • Windows Hello Authentication: Fixes enhance the login reliability of Windows Hello, particularly after device resets under specific security configurations. This improvement supports smoother and more dependable biometric authentication experiences.

  • Boot and Reset Configurations: Problems affecting push-button reset options after Windows Setup and Sysprep processes have been corrected, ensuring that system recovery functionalities work as intended.

  • Graphics and External Hardware Support: Issues with external GPUs connected via Thunderbolt have been fixed to ensure proper recognition and performance. Hyper-V Manager also now accurately reports CPU usage for virtual machines.

  • User Interface and Accessibility: The update includes taskbar enhancements that remove persistent artifacts, fixes keyboard navigation behavior for RTL languages such as Arabic and Hebrew, and refines touch gesture reliability in Start Menu and File Explorer.

  • Backup Reliability: This release fixes backup delays that caused scheduled backup operations to stall on certain Windows 11 builds, enhancing data protection reliability.

  • Windows Hello and Remote Desktop Services Enhancements: Additional enhancements improve the overall experience and reliability of Windows Hello and Remote Desktop functionalities, aligning with enterprise use-cases.

Known Issues and Workarounds

  • Some users have reported installation challenges when Citrix Session Recording Agent (SRA) version 2411 is present; Microsoft and Citrix recommend consulting relevant documentation for temporary workarounds.

  • Users on ARM devices may face issues downloading certain applications like Roblox via the Microsoft Store, with manual downloads from official websites as a suggested solution.

  • There may be ongoing issues with SSH connections on Windows 10/11 and Windows Server 2022 that remain under investigation.

  • Certain Bluetooth and gaming peripherals such as Xbox Controllers connected via Bluetooth might cause system errors.

Deployment and Installation

Admins and users can install KB5061977 through the standard Windows Update mechanism or via Business deployment tools such as Windows Update for Business and WSUS. Manual downloads are also available via the Microsoft Update Catalog for those who prefer controlled installation processes.

Significance for Enterprises and Individual Users

This out-of-band update represents Microsoft's proactive approach to addressing urgent issues discovered outside the regular Patch Tuesday schedule. Key fixes target vulnerabilities and bugs that could disrupt enterprise operations, particularly those relying on stable networking, biometric security, and system recovery features.

For individual users, the update enhances the everyday experience by fixing UI inconsistencies and improving system responsiveness and reliability, contributing to smoother computing workflows.

Conclusion

The KB5061977 update (OS Build 26100.4066) is a critical patch for Windows 11 users, addressing a mix of security vulnerabilities, system stability bugs, and usability improvements. IT administrators are advised to prioritize deployment to safeguard infrastructure, while regular users will benefit from enhanced security and performance stability. Staying current with such patches is vital to maintaining a resilient and secure Windows 11 environment.

For detailed official guidance and support notes, users should refer to Microsoft's update documentation and support channels.