Download Windows 11 KB5079391 Update with New Features: Offline Installer Links (.msu)

Microsoft has released an optional update for Windows 11, denoted as KB5079391, which brings a series of significant enhancements. Among them, noteworthy improvements include the introduction of support for 1000 Hz refresh rate monitors and the flexibility to enable or disable Smart App Control (SAC) without necessitating a complete operating system reinstall. Furthermore, Microsoft is providing direct download links for offline installers (.msu) for users who prefer manual installations.

This update, officially titled “2026-03 Preview Update (KB5079391) (26200.8116)”, necessitates manual initiation via the ‘Download & update’ button found in Settings > Windows Update. Upon installation, Windows 11 25H2 is updated to Build 26200.8116, while the previous version, Windows 11 24H2, will see an update to Build 21200.8116.

It’s important to highlight that KB5079391, or any Windows updates, installs automatically if the toggle for “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” is enabled.

If you choose to defer this optional update, you won’t miss out on the advancements, such as the enhanced control of Smart App Control. Microsoft has indicated that these updates will be combined in the Patch Tuesday rollout scheduled for April 14, 2026.

Direct Download Links for Windows 11 KB5079391

Users can obtain Windows 11 KB5079391 through the following direct download links: 64-bit and ARM-64.

The March 2026 optional update has a file size of 4.5GB, consistent with the sizes of previous updates.

Build Number	Size	OS Version	Architecture
26200.8116	4524.2 MB	Windows 11 25H2	x64-based
26200.8116	4305.6 MB	Windows 11 25H2	arm64-based
26100.8116	4524.2 MB	Windows 11 24H2	x64-based
26100.8116	4305.6 MB	Windows 11 24H2	arm64-based

Highlights of Windows 11 Builds 26200.8116 (25H2) / 26100.8116 (24H2)

New features will be introduced gradually, which means they may not be immediately available after the update installation.

1. Enhanced Refresh Rate Support

One of the most exciting features in this optional update is the newly added support for 1000 Hz refresh rate monitors, contingent upon having compatible hardware. The first 1000 Hz gaming monitor debuted at CES 2026, and one example is the Acer Predator XB273U F6. Users interested in this type of hardware will need the Windows 11 KB5079391 update (Build 26200.8116 or better) to take advantage of this capability.

It is essential to note that the rollout of 1000 Hz support in Windows 11 will happen gradually, meaning users may not experience this feature instantly after the update.

2. Smart App Control Management Streamlined

If you feel a sense of déjà vu, it’s likely because Microsoft initially discussed enhanced controls over Smart App Control back in January 2026. At that time, they intended to permit users to turn Smart App Control on or off without having to reset or reinstall Windows, but those features were not implemented as promised.

Smart App Control settings in Windows 11

The good news is that with this latest update, users can finally manage the Smart App Control settings effectively. Smart App Control serves as a security feature designed to prevent malicious applications from running. While it generally performs well, it can sometimes misidentify legitimate applications as threats, leading to inconvenience for users.

Previously, many users opted into Smart App Control without a full understanding of its implications, as it blocked various applications, including games and anti-cheat software. With KB5079391, Microsoft has addressed user feedback, allowing more flexible management of Smart App Control settings.

To manage SAC, navigate to Settings > Windows Security > App & Browser Control > Smart App Control settings. If it’s disabled, you can now enable it without resetting Windows. Conversely, if it’s enabled and you’d like to disable it, you can do so seamlessly without a full OS reinstall.

Microsoft confirmed that this feature, originally disclosed in January, has started to roll out as part of this update.

3. Improved Settings App with Microsoft 365 Control

Although this update may not be relevant for all users, there is now an enhanced capability to switch Microsoft 365 plans directly within Settings > Accounts. Users on the Microsoft 365 Basic plan can now easily upgrade to more comprehensive options, such as the standard Microsoft 365 plan that includes Copilot in Office applications.

The Settings app also features a more organized About page, facilitating quick access to device specifications and other critical settings such as Storage Settings. Additionally, the Device card is now accessible on the home page of the Settings app for enhanced user experience.

Microsoft has enhanced the overall speed of the Settings app as well, making it a more responsive and engaging tool.

4. File Explorer Enhancements

Following notable security updates in October 2025 that restricted the preview feature for files downloaded from the internet, users now have more reliable options for unlocking these files. While earlier attempts to whitelist downloaded files faced challenges, this update aims to rectify those issues.

Additional improvements in File Explorer include:

Voice Typing is now integrated with advanced controls in File Explorer, allowing for efficient file renaming.
The “Advanced Security Settings” dialog box has been updated to permit sorting permissions, enhancing user experience.

Moreover, Microsoft has resolved display reliability concerns, patched multiple printing issues, and rolled out other system enhancements with this update.

Currently, there are no new known issues reported by Microsoft.

Source & Images