Windows 11 KB5044384 update: New Wi-Fi password management, gamepad keyboard improvements, and more

Microsoft released the KB5044384 update for Windows 11, OS build 26100.2161, as a preview update. This update introduces a range of new features, improvements, and fixes aimed at enhancing user experience and system performance. Below is a comprehensive overview of what this update contains.

Windows 11 KB5044384 update features

1. Notifications and Wi-Fi password dialog

• Notifications: The update introduces a new feature in the notifications settings. Users can now manage “Notification Suggestions” more efficiently by navigating to Settings > System > Notifications. This entry will appear once a notification is received, allowing for better customization of notification preferences.
• Wi-Fi password dialog: A new addition to the Settings > Network & Internet section allows users to manage Wi-Fi password settings more intuitively. This feature aims to simplify network management for users.

2. User interface and accessibility

• Gamepad keyboard: A new feature has been added to enhance the gaming experience through improved gamepad keyboard functionality.
• Start menu: The “All apps” section in the Start menu has been renamed to “All,” providing a streamlined approach to navigating applications.
• ALT + Tab functionality: The update addresses an issue where switching between windows using ALT + Tab would cause the screen to go black temporarily on some PCs. This fix ensures smoother multitasking.

3. Networking and storage

• Virtual Hard Disk (VHD/VHDx): Users can now access new settings under Settings > System > Storage > Disks & Volumes for managing virtual hard disks. This feature is gradually rolling out and may not be immediately available to all users.
• Networking enhancements: The command netsh wlan show networks now supports UTF-8 encoded SSIDs, allowing Wi-Fi networks with Unicode characters, such as emojis, to display correctly. This improvement is also part of a gradual rollout.

4. Windows Sandbox Client Preview

The update introduces several new features in the Windows Sandbox Client Preview, including:

• Runtime clipboard redirection.
• Audio and video input control.
• Folder sharing with the host at runtime.

These features can be accessed via the ellipses (…) in the app’s upper right corner, with command-line support available through wsb.exe –help. Updates for this app are available in the Microsoft Store.

KB5044384 fixes and improvements

1. System stability and performance

• Disk cleanup app: The update fixes issues related to inaccurate free space estimates in the Disk Cleanup app, improving its reliability.
• User Interface (UI): It resolves problems where certain UI elements were not visible when running specific applications.
• Live Kernel Debug Files: An issue where win32kbase.sys created unnecessary live kernel debug files has been fixed.

2. Security improvements

• Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist: The update expands the blocklist of drivers susceptible to Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD) attacks, enhancing system security against potential threats.

3. Known issues for Roblox users worldwide

Despite these improvements, there are known issues with this update:

• Users on ARM devices may experience difficulties downloading and playing Roblox from the Microsoft Store. As a workaround, players can download Roblox directly from its website.

KB5044384 installation instructions

To install the KB5044384 update, users can access it through various Windows and Microsoft release channels or download it from the Microsoft Update Catalog. It is important to note that this update includes both the latest servicing stack update (SSU) and cumulative updates (LCU), ensuring a robust servicing stack for future updates.

The KB5044384 update brings significant enhancements and fixes that improve Windows 11’s functionality and user experience. While some features are being rolled out gradually, users can expect a more stable and secure operating system with this update.