Download Windows 10 KB5049981

Install the Latest Windows 10 KB5049981 Updates for Essential Bug Fixes and Enhanced Security!

Microsoft released cumulative update KB5049981 for Windows 10 versions 22H2 and 21H2. This is part of the January 2025 Patch Tuesday update, which focuses on bug fixes and security improvements. Installing today’s update advance Windows 10 Build 19045.5371 includes fixes issues with Win32 shortcuts not backing up to the cloud, dragging and dropping files from a cloud provider resulting in a move instead of a copy, Windows not activating after a motherboard replacement and more.

Hence it’s an important update, download and install automatically once your device connects to the Microsoft server. Alternatively, you can manually check for and install the update by navigating to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, or by downloading it directly from the Microsoft Update Catalog.

As per Microsoft’s official support page, the package doesn’t bring any new features, it comes with important security updates, so users should consider installing it as soon as possible.

What’s New in Windows 10 KB5049981

After installing this update, the build numbers will change to 19045.5371 for version 22H2 and 19044.5371 for version 21H2. The update focuses on important security patches and addresses several key problems.

• Recommended Section in Start Menu: A new feature is introduced where the Start menu displays app suggestions from other developers. While not exactly an advertisement, it can feel like one. If you don’t like this feature, you can turn it off by going to Settings > Personalization > Start and disabling the Show suggestions occasionally in Start option.
• BYOVD (Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver) Vulnerability: The update adds new drivers to the list at risk for BYOVD attacks, aiming to raise awareness and security around vulnerable drivers.
• Upgrade to Windows 11 Pop-up Bug: Microsoft included a pop-up to upgrade to Windows 11, but ironically, it ended up crashing. This incident highlights some of the frustration caused by these prompts.

A fix has been applied to the file copy issue with online file-storing services. Previously, copying files could unexpectedly move the files from their original location, which caused concern among users. This problem has now been resolved.

There was an issue where Win32 app shortcuts weren’t being backed up to the cloud. This bug has also been fixed in this update.

Users who replaced their PC’s motherboard were facing issues where Windows 10 failed to recognize the new hardware, preventing activation. This problem has now been addressed.

Known Issues:

• OpenSSH Service Fails to Start: After installing the October 2024 security update, some users report that the OpenSSH service fails to start, blocking SSH connections. The service fails without logging details, requiring manual intervention to run the sshd.exe process.
• Citrix Installation Issue: Devices with certain Citrix components, specifically Citrix Session Recording Agent (SRA) version 2411, may fail to complete the January 2025 security update installation. This issue has been observed on devices using the December 2024 release of version 2411. Microsoft is working with Citrix to resolve this, and updates will be provided once a solution is available.

KB update offline installer link: https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=KB5049981

• If you are looking for the latest Windows 10 version 22H2 ISO, click here.
• In addition, you can download the latest Windows 11 ISO images here.

If you experience a problem installing the update, check this video for troubleshooting steps: