Windows 11 Update KB5051987 Causes File Explorer Issues: Temporary Fixes and Commands

Listen to this Post

Windows 11’s latest update, KB5051987, has been causing trouble for many users, particularly with File Explorer. The issue is that File Explorer becomes unresponsive, making it impossible to open folders or access files.

Some users have reported that they can’t even launch File Explorer from the taskbar or the All Apps list. Others have experienced problems saving Office files or downloading files. The explorer.exe process is still running in Task Manager, but certain functions within File Explorer are broken.

To make matters worse, some users have encountered issues installing the update, with the process getting stuck at a certain percentage before displaying an error code.

Temporary Workarounds:

1. Restarting Windows Explorer:

  • Press `CTRL + SHIFT + ESC` to open Task Manager.
  • Go to the Processes tab.
  • Search for Windows Explorer.
  • Right-click and select Restart.

2. Uninstalling the Update:

  • Open Settings > Windows Update > Update History.
  • Scroll down to Related settings and click Uninstall updates.
  • Locate KB5051987, select it, and click Uninstall.
  • Restart your system.

3. Pausing Updates Temporarily:

  • Open Settings > Windows Update.
  • Click Pause updates for 7 days to prevent the patch from reinstalling automatically.

Commands for Advanced Users:

  • Check for Update Issues via Command
    dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
    sfc /scannow
    

    These commands help repair system files and check for corruption.

  • Reset Windows Update Components:

    net stop wuauserv
    net stop bits
    ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
    net start wuauserv
    net start bits
    

    This resets the Windows Update components, which can resolve installation issues.

  • Force Restart Explorer via PowerShell:

    Stop-Process -Name explorer -Force
    Start-Process explorer
    

This forcefully restarts the File Explorer process.

What Undercode Say:

The Windows 11 KB5051987 update has undeniably caused significant disruptions, particularly with File Explorer functionality. While the temporary fixes provided can alleviate some of the immediate issues, they are not permanent solutions. Microsoft is expected to release a patch to address these problems, but until then, users can employ the workarounds and commands outlined above.

For those comfortable with command-line tools, the DISM and SFC commands are invaluable for diagnosing and repairing system file corruption. Additionally, resetting Windows Update components can resolve persistent update installation issues. The PowerShell command to restart Explorer is a quick and effective way to regain control of your file management system.

In the broader context, this situation highlights the importance of staying informed about updates and their potential impacts. Regularly backing up critical data and understanding how to troubleshoot common issues can save significant time and frustration. For further reading on Windows updates and troubleshooting, visit Microsoft’s Support Page.

Remember, while updates are essential for security and performance, they can sometimes introduce new challenges. Staying proactive and informed is key to maintaining a smooth and efficient computing experience.

References:

Hackers Feeds, Undercode AIFeatured Image