Download Windows 11 KB5044384 Update for Enhanced Usability in 24H2 (.msu file)

The optional update KB5044384 for Windows 11 24H2 has been released, marking an exciting enhancement for users. This update addresses significant bugs and can be easily installed through Settings > Windows Update. Additionally, Microsoft has made available direct download links for offline installers of KB5044384 in. msu format.

It’s important to note that KB5044384 is an optional update, meaning it won’t automatically download or install on your device. The improvements from the October 2024 update will start deploying as part of an automatic patch scheduled for November 12, coinciding with Patch Tuesday.

What improvements and fixes does the first optional patch for Windows 11 24H2 offer? As confirmed by Microsoft and observed in our tests, the longstanding 8.63GB reporting issue has been addressed, where both Disk Cleanup and Windows Storage inaccurately indicated that the Windows Update cache was consuming unusable storage space.

Moreover, the glitch affecting the functionality of the SFC/scannow command has also been resolved. While there are additional fixes included, we’ll delve into those further in this article. If you’re currently utilizing Windows 11 24H2 and check for updates, you should see the following update listed as optional:

2024-10 Cumulative Update Preview for Windows 11 Version 24H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5044384)

To proceed with the installation, simply select Download and Install. If you prefer not to update, feel free to dismiss the alert or click the close button.

Download Links for Windows 11 KB5044384

Direct download links for Windows 11 KB5044384 are available: 64-bit and ARM | Microsoft Update Catalog.

Latest Features in Windows 11 Build 26100.2161

Windows 11 24H2 Build 26100.2161 has effectively rectified multiple critical issues, including the persistent 8.64GB cache bug previously mentioned.

What other fixes are included? According to our observations, the SFC/scannow issue has been remedied. Formerly, a bug in Windows 11 24H2 could cause SFC/scannow to misidentify WebView2-related files as corrupted, attempting repairs on every scan.

This issue has now been successfully resolved with Windows 11 KB5044384. Initially reported by Windows Latest, Microsoft has confirmed the fix in an update to its support documentation. As of October 24, it is rectified with this optional patch.

Additionally, Microsoft has assured users of enhanced “accuracy” in Disk Cleanup, which is a welcomed improvement in this update.

Another notable fix addresses a frustrating bug that resulted in a black screen when using the Alt+Tab functionality, which is essential for multitasking. Users had been experiencing a black screen after upgrading to 24H2 when using Alt+Tab to switch between applications.

In our tests, we encountered instances where pressing ALT + Tab from certain applications or games led to a temporary black screen before the shortcut responded. Thankfully, this issue has been addressed in this update.

On the feature enhancement side, Windows 11 Build 26100.2161 introduces a new option that allows users to easily manage notification suggestions. Microsoft recently implemented a feature prompting users to turn off app notifications through additional notifications, which many found bothersome.

An improvement in this update allows users to see a new “…” option in the “turn off notification suggestion” toast, granting the choice to disable these alerts or navigate to Settings > System > Notifications.

For a more organized experience, these alerts will be grouped under the new “Notifications suggestions” category, which appears whenever you receive a system-generated alert.

Furthermore, Windows 11 KB5044384 allows changes to the Copilot key, enabling users to customize it to open Windows Search or other compatible applications, including third-party ones, provided they are in the. msix package format—.exe applications will not be compatible.

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