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Windows 11 February 2026 security updates released for versions 26H1, 24H2, 25H2 and 23H2

Microsoft has officially released the Windows 11 security update for February 2026. This latest update includes security fixes and improvements for versions 26H1, 24H2 & 25H2, and 23H2.

Windows 11 February 2026 Security update

The update for version 26H1 (KB5077179) arrives with OS build 28000.1575, version 25H2 & 24H2 (KB5077181) arrive with OS builds 26200.7840 and 26100.7840, and version 23H2 arrives with OS build 22631.6649.

Changelog-

Version 26H1

Improvements

  • [Graphics] Fixed: This update addresses an issue where certain GPU configurations might have recently experienced a system error related to dxgmms2.sys, resulting in the KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE error.
  • [.NET Framework 3.5] Starting with Windows 11 version 26H1, .NET Framework 3.5 is no longer a Windows Feature on Demand optional component. You must install .NET Framework 3.5 by using the standalone installer.
  • [Networking] Fixed: This update addresses an issue that prevented some devices from connecting to certain WPA3‑Personal Wi‑Fi networks.
  • [OS Reliability]
    • Fixed: This update addresses an issue where BitLocker Hardware Lab Kit (HLK) tests in the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) playlist were missing. The tests now appear as expected.
    • Fixed: This update addresses an issue that could cause TrustedInstaller to stop responding and prevent Windows from starting.

Version 25H2 & 24H2

Improvements

  • [Gaming] Fixed: This update addresses an issue that determines device eligibility for the full-screen gaming experience.
  • [Networking] Fixed: This update addresses an issue that prevented some devices from connecting to certain WPA3‑Personal Wi‑Fi networks. The issue might occur after you install KB5074105.
  • [Secure Boot] With this update, Windows quality updates include a broad set of targeting data that identifies devices and their ability to receive new Secure Boot certificates. Devices will receive the new certificates only after they show sufficient successful update signals, which helps ensure a safe and phased rollout.

Version 23H2

Improvements

  • [Secure Boot] 
    • ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​This release will execute updates in the Boot Manager on devices that already have the Windows UEFI CA 2023 certificate in their Secure Boot Signature Database (DB). It replaces the 2011 signed bootmgfw.efi with the 2023 signed bootmgfw.efi. Be advised of the consequences of resetting the DB or turning Secure Boot on or off, as this can cause a “Secure Boot violation” issue. In those rare cases, the solution is to create the Secure Boot recovery media.
      • With this update, Windows quality updates include a broad set of targeting data that identifies devices and their ability to receive new Secure Boot certificates. Devices will receive the new certificates only after they show sufficient successful update signals, which helps ensure a safe and phased rollout.
  • [Display & Graphics] Fixed: This update addresses an issue that caused the Desktop Window Manager (DWM) process to restart unexpectedly. ​​​​​​​
  • [File Explorer] Fixed: This update addresses an issue where folder renaming with desktop.ini files in File Explorer doesn’t work correctly. The LocalizedResourceName setting is ignored, so custom folder names don’t appear.
  • [Fonts & Display] Updates the Chinese fonts to support the GB18030‑2022A standard for character coverage and display.
  • [Graphics] Fixed: This update addresses an issue where certain GPU configurations might have recently experienced a system error related to dxgmms2.sys, resulting in the KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE error.
  • [OS Security (known issue)] Fixed: After installing the Windows security update released on or after January 13, 2026, some PCs that run Virtual Secure Mode (VSM) are unable to shut down or enter hibernation. Instead, the device restarts.
  • [Windows Security] Fixed: This update addresses an issue that affected Microsoft Defender SmartScreen Application Reputation (AppRep) events from being logged. This interrupted event tracking is used for advanced threat investigations.
  • [Secure Boot] With this update, Windows quality updates include a broad set of targeting data that identifies devices and their ability to receive new Secure Boot certificates. Devices will receive the new certificates only after they show sufficient successful update signals, which helps ensure a safe and phased rollout.

For versions 25H2, 24H2 & 23H2, Secure Boot certificates used by Windows devices are set to expire starting in June 2026. This might affect the ability of certain personal and business devices to boot securely if not updated in time. To avoid disruption, Microsoft recommends reviewing the guidance and taking action to update certificates in advance.

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