Microsoft's latest Windows 11 update, KB5051987, has introduced several performance improvements and security patches, but some users are reporting significant issues with File Explorer. This mandatory update, released as part of Microsoft's Patch Tuesday cycle, aims to enhance system stability but has instead caused crashes, slow performance, and navigation problems for a subset of users.

What KB5051987 Changes in Windows 11

The KB5051987 update includes:
- Critical security patches for remote code execution vulnerabilities
- Performance improvements for the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)
- Stability fixes for the Microsoft Store
- Updates to Microsoft Defender SmartScreen

While these changes are generally positive, the unintended consequences for File Explorer functionality have become a major pain point for affected users.

Common File Explorer Issues After KB5051987

Users across forums and support channels report these recurring problems:

1. File Explorer Crashes

  • Random crashes when navigating folders
  • Complete freezes requiring Task Manager intervention
  • 'Explorer.exe has stopped working' errors

2. Performance Degradation

  • Slow folder loading times (5-10 second delays)
  • High CPU usage by explorer.exe (30-50% consistently)
  • Thumbnail generation failures

3. Navigation Problems

  • Right-click context menu delays
  • Search functionality not returning results
  • Quick Access links failing to load

Microsoft's Official Response

Microsoft has acknowledged these issues in a support document, stating:

"We're aware of reports that some users may experience performance issues with File Explorer after installing KB5051987. Our engineers are actively investigating these reports."

The company recommends these temporary workarounds while a permanent fix is developed.

Verified Workarounds for KB5051987 Issues

1. Restart File Explorer

  1. Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager
  2. Find 'Windows Explorer' under Processes
  3. Right-click and select 'Restart'

2. Clear File Explorer History

  1. Open File Explorer (Win+E)
  2. Go to View > Options > Change folder and search options
  3. Under the General tab, click 'Clear' next to 'Clear File Explorer history'
  4. Click Apply then OK

3. Disable Preview Pane

  1. Open File Explorer
  2. Click View > Preview Pane to disable it
  3. Restart File Explorer via Task Manager

4. Run System File Checker

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter
  3. Wait for verification to complete (may take 20-30 minutes)
  4. Restart your computer

5. Uninstall KB5051987 (Last Resort)

  1. Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update History
  2. Click 'Uninstall updates'
  3. Locate KB5051987 in the list
  4. Select it and click Uninstall

Preventing Future Update Issues

To minimize problems with future Windows updates:

  • Create system restore points before installing updates
  • Wait 1-2 weeks before installing non-security updates
  • Monitor the Windows Release Health dashboard
  • Consider using the Windows Update pause feature

When to Expect a Permanent Fix

Microsoft typically releases out-of-band updates for critical issues within 2-4 weeks. Users experiencing severe problems should:

  1. Report issues through Feedback Hub
  2. Monitor Microsoft's support site for updates
  3. Consider joining the Windows Insider Program for early fixes

Alternative File Managers

While waiting for fixes, these third-party file managers work well with Windows 11:

  • Files App (Microsoft Store)
  • Directory Opus
  • XYplorer
  • Total Commander

These provide similar functionality without the KB5051987-related issues.

Long-Term Implications

This incident highlights the challenges of Microsoft's rapid update cycle. While security updates are essential, the increasing frequency of quality issues suggests Microsoft may need to:

  • Improve update testing procedures
  • Expand the Windows Insider program
  • Develop better rollback mechanisms
  • Provide more detailed update notes

For now, affected users must weigh the security benefits of KB5051987 against the File Explorer instability it may cause.