Windows 11 KB5079473 March 2026 Update Features and Known Issues
The Windows 11 system received its March 2026 cumulative update through Microsoft distribution of KB5079473. The system requires this Patch Tuesday update because it brings essential security updates and essential system enhancements which have a download size that exceeds 4.5 GB. The installation process will update the build numbers to 26100.8037837 for 24H2 and 26200.837807 for 25H2. The update will fix almost 80 security weaknesses but it will also cause several users to experience problems with both installation and gaming performance.
The update adds various utilities that users have been requesting along with interface improvements which modernize the user experience.
- Desktop backgrounds now support .webp images through direct user access. The format achieves high quality results with smaller file sizes which leads to lower RAM needs during system startup.
- The built in Sysmon system monitor started as a manual Sysinternals download but now exists as a Windows integrated feature. The system delivers advanced security threat monitoring functions which users can activate through the Optional Features option.
- The file explorer system now enables search functions to work better across multiple drive systems. The Extract All feature now supports additional compressed formats which include more than just traditional .zip files.
- The Taskbar Wi Fi icon now provides users with a new Network Speed Test option. The feature lets users access Bing's speed test through Edge but it does not work as a fully integrated system tool.
- The system now supports the latest emoji library for modern communication standards.
The update KB5079473 provides security fixes for 58 to 79 different security vulnerabilities which include active Zero Day vulnerabilities. The update requires Microsoft to transfer Secure Boot Key Exchange Key certificates throughout the system. Microsoft is replacing expiring 2011 certificates with 2023 versions. The UEFI/BIOS system stores these certificates so users who have outdated firmware will experience the Windows Boot Manager blocked by current security policy error which prevents system startup.
Reddit users have reported multiple technical issues which occur repeatedly since the system began its rollout.
- Many gamers playing titles like Fortnite Elden Ring and Apex Legends are experiencing Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors. The Windows kernel system conflicts with anti cheat driver systems which leads to this problem.
- The system update process stops functioning when it reaches 96% or 100% because it encounters error processes 0x80072 and 0x800f081f. This issue occurs when the .NET Framework files become damaged.
- Users experience mouse lag and difficulties with Start menu functions and delayed system startup which affects their computer usage after they install the update.
- The system update process has created problems which lead to specific users reporting that their systems have lost both Wi Fi and Audio drivers after the system has been updated.
The technical staff recommends these procedures to solve problems with KB5079473.
1. Fix Corrupted System Files
Open Command Prompt (Admin) and run the following commands in order to repair the update components:
sfc /scannow
dism /online /cleanup image /restorehealth
2. Resolve Gaming Crashes (EAC)
The process of disabling Memory Integrity will provide users with a temporary solution to their crashing game problems until the release of the future patch. Navigate to: Windows Security > Device Security > Core Isolation and toggle off Memory Integrity.
3. Update BIOS UEFI Firmware
The motherboard manufacturer’s website should be visited by users who need to update their BIOS system before installing KB5079473 to avoid Secure Boot errors and KIK certificate problems.
4. Reset Windows Update Folders
The update has been blocked from running because users must stop the Windows Update service to delete all data within the C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution folder before they can restart the update.
Users who work in critical environments should suspend their updates for seven days to let emergency patches like KB5063060 stabilize EAC conflicts. Always create a System Restore point before proceeding with a 4.5 GB cumulative update.
