Download Windows 10 KB5044273 with Start Menu Updates (Direct .msu File)

The October 2024 Patch, Windows 10 KB5044273, introduces numerous bug fixes and explores potential modifications to the Start menu interface. This update is being distributed through Windows Update, and users can also find direct download links for offline installation (.msu files) available on the Microsoft Update Catalog.

As with prior security updates, Windows 10 KB5044273 will initiate an automatic download and installation over the next few hours. Once the update is complete, you’ll see the Build number increment to either Build 19045.5011 or 19044.5011 if you are still running the earlier version.

The official release notes from Microsoft indicate “security improvements to internal OS functionality,” but there’s more to this update than merely security enhancements. Our investigations at Windows Latest have revealed attempts by KB5044273 to reposition the profile picture icon within the Start menu, aiming to create a Microsoft account manager experience similar to that found in Windows 11.

This is intriguing, isn’t it? However, it’s worth noting that not all users will observe the changed profile icon placement, which may shift from the bottom of the menu to the top.

If you check for updates today, you should see the October 2024 Patch listed as “2024-10 Cumulative Update for Windows 10 Version 22H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5044273),” along with the. NET Framework security update, labeled as “2024-10 Cumulative Update for. NET Framework 3.5, 4.8, and 4.8.1 for Windows 10 Version 22H2 for x64 (KB5044091).”

The above screenshot illustrates all mentioned updates that should appear during your search for updates. However, if they do not show, offline installers via. msu files are available for use:

Download Links for Windows 10 KB5044273

Direct Download Links for Windows 10 KB5044273: available for both 64-bit and 32-bit (x86).

Highlights of Windows 10 Build 19045.5011

The standout feature in Windows 10 Build 19045.5011 relates to the updated position of the profile icon in the Start menu.

For instance, testing has indicated the profile icon now resides in the top left sidebar, also referred to as the navigation pane.

While KB5044273 does not introduce a full Microsoft account feature to Windows 10 just yet, such functionality is on its way. Previous builds have hinted at the inclusion of a comprehensive Microsoft account manager within the Windows 10 Start menu.

In line with its Windows 11 equivalent, this account manager will also emphasize the integration of OneDrive, Copilot, Microsoft 365, and other associated services.

Microsoft is committed to embedding a Microsoft account manager across all its platforms, having already made this feature available to users of Windows 11 24H2.

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