Windows 11 KB5086672 Update Released Following Microsoft’s Retraction of March 2026 Optional Update

Microsoft has begun the rollout of Windows 11 KB5086672, introducing several significant enhancements aimed at improving user experience. This update is categorized as an “out-of-band” release, a designation that indicates its delivery outside the regular update cycle. The necessity for this release arose after the original March 2026 optional update, KB5079391, encountered critical installation issues, resulting in error code 0x80073712.

Windows Update types — Types of Windows updates and their implications

The problematic optional update, KB5079391, was initially released on March 26 and subsequently faced installation failures across numerous PCs. Although the exact number of affected devices remains undisclosed, the widespread nature of the issue was significant enough for Microsoft to withdraw the update—an uncommon occurrence.

According to Microsoft, the bug in KB5079391 triggered a persistent loop of download and installation attempts, culminating in the frustrating error 0x80073712, which typically denotes missing Windows Update files. The company commented, “Rollout of this update is temporarily paused due to installation error 0x80073712, ” on March 28, emphasizing their efforts to investigate the situation and mitigate further disruptions.

Fast forward to the end of March, and KB5086672, the new optional update, is now available. This version, officially recognized as an out-of-band update, addresses the installation challenges associated with the previous release. Those who missed out on the March update can now proceed to download Windows 11 KB5086672 (Build 26200.8117), which incorporates all features from the earlier version.

This update will appear even for users who successfully installed the March optional update. However, if KB5079391 is functioning correctly on your system, it’s generally not necessary to install KB5086672, as it primarily serves as a derivative patch with no substantial impact on your device.

It is important to distinguish that optional preview updates are intended for production environments, unlike Windows Insider Previews, which are primarily for beta testers.

Download Links for Windows 11 KB5086672

For those ready to update, here are the direct download links for Windows 11 KB5086672: 64-bit and ARM-64 versions.

Build Number	Size	OS Version	Architecture
26200.8117	5104.9 MB	Windows 11 25H2	x64-based
26200.8117	5104.9 MB	Windows 11 25H2	arm64-based
26100.8117	4592.8 MB	Windows 11 24H2	x64-based
26100.8117	4592.8 MB	Windows 11 24H2	arm64-based

New Features in Windows 11 Build 26200.8117 (25H2)

Microsoft notes that all enhancements included in the update are released gradually. Therefore, simply possessing Build 26200.8117+ might not guarantee access to the changes outlined below.

1. Toggle Smart App Control Without Reinstalling Windows

With the introduction of KB5086672, users now have the ability to manage Smart App Control settings without needing a complete OS reinstall. This feature, designed to block malicious applications from running, can be turned on or off directly from Settings > Windows Security > App & Browser Control.

However, this security feature has received mixed feedback; while it protects against malware, it may incorrectly block legitimate applications. Previously, users were forced to reinstall Windows to adjust Smart App Control, but this update allows for greater user flexibility.

2. Support for 1000Hz Refresh Rate Monitors

While personal monitors with a 1000Hz refresh rate might not yet be mainstream, Microsoft’s proactive inclusion of this feature ensures Windows 11’s readiness for future hardware advancements.

3. Improved File Explorer for Internet-Downloaded Previews

The March update had introduced complications for previewing internet-downloaded files. However, KB5086672 resolves these issues, enabling smoother interaction when previewing files like PDFs and Word documents directly within File Explorer.

Furthermore, Microsoft has enhanced Windows Voice Typing functionality, allowing renaming of files via voice commands. Users will also notice improved sorting and filtering within the Advanced Security Settings window for folders.

Here is a comprehensive list of features and improvements included in Windows 11 KB5086672:

Narrator now supports rich image descriptions on Copilot+ devices.
Easy upgrades or switches between Microsoft 365 plans from Settings > Accounts.
Modernized dialog boxes in Settings > Accounts > Other Users, aligning with Windows UI style.
Faster loading times for the home page of Windows Settings.
The ‘sfc /scannow’ command no longer indicates false errors.
Windows Hello-related issues fixed on certain PCs.

Known Issues in Windows 11 KB5086672

At present, Microsoft has not reported any new concerns associated with the out-of-band update, providing reassurance for users considering the installation.

For those who have previously installed March’s optional update (KB5079391), the new patch (KB5086672) is not essential. Nevertheless, should you decide to proceed with the installation, it’s unlikely that significant issues will arise.

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