Windows 11 Update KB5077241 Introduces Internet Speed Test and Direct Download Links for Offline Installers (.msu)

Windows 11 Update KB5077241 Introduces Internet Speed Test and Direct Download Links for Offline Installers (.msu)

Microsoft has officially released Windows 11 update KB5077241, bringing an array of exciting features. Notably, this update introduces Emoji 16, which expands your emoji library. Additionally, users will find a built-in network speed test tool conveniently located in the taskbar. For those who prefer offline installations, Microsoft has also made.msu files available for direct download.

It is important to note that KB5077241 is classified as an optional update. On systems running Windows 11 version 25H2, it appears as 2026-02 Preview Update (KB5077241) (26200.7922). Conversely, users with version 24H2 will see a similar update under build number 26100.7922. Below is a glimpse of how it appears on my system:

2026-02 Preview Update (KB5077241) (26200.7922)

During testing, we’ve found that if the option to “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” is enabled, the update will download automatically. For those who prefer not to receive optional updates unintentionally, it’s advisable to disable this toggle.

How to Access Download Links for Windows 11 KB5077241

You can obtain Windows 11 KB5077241 through the following direct download links: 64-bit and ARM-64 versions. These links are particularly useful if you’re experiencing issues with Windows Update or need to deploy the update across multiple devices within your network.

To download from the Update Catalog, navigate to the provided link and click ‘Download’ next to the appropriate version for your operating system. For instance, if your CPU is identified as x86 under Settings > System > About, you must select the x86 update package (.msu), not the arm64 version.

The February 2026 optional update weighs in at approximately 4.5GB. This larger size is largely attributed to the inclusion of local AI models, which are downloaded even if your system isn’t compatible with these models. This situation often arises when using offline installers (.msu).

Build Number Size OS Version Architecture
26200.7922 4434.4 MB Windows 11 25H2 x64-based
26200.7922 4137.9 MB Windows 11 25H2 arm64-based
26100.7922 4434.4 MB Windows 11 24H2 x64-based
26100.7922 4137.9 MB Windows 11 24H2 arm64-based

In testing, I was able to download the Windows 11 Build 26100.7922 in about 10 minutes on a 200 Mbps connection. However, users should be aware that Windows Update can throttle download speeds, potentially causing longer wait times even with a fast internet connection. There may also be instances where the update process halts unexpectedly.

Installation of Windows 11 KB5077241 is quick, generally taking less than five minutes, and it necessitates a single reboot to apply the changes.

New Features Included in Windows 11 Build 26200.7922 (25H2) / Build 26100.7922 (24H2)

Keep in mind that the rollout of new features is gradual; thus, they may not be immediately available even if you’re running Build 26200.7922 (25H2) or Build 26100.7922 (24H2).

1. Introduction of Emoji 16.0

Although Emoji 16 has been around for over a year, Windows has lagged in making these new emojis accessible in its Emoji panel. Prior reports indicated Emoji 16 support in Windows 11 version 24H2, but users were unable to access these emojis through the Emoji or Clipboard panels. With the launch of Windows 11 KB5077241, this issue has been resolved, allowing users to search and utilize emojis from the Emoji panel directly.

Emoji 16.0 in OneNote

2. New Network Speed Test Tool in the Taskbar

This latest update introduces a much-anticipated network speed test tool right on the taskbar. While you may have heard about its existence, be advised that if you aren’t fond of web applications, you might find this feature somewhat underwhelming.

Windows 11 internet speed test toggle
Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

As a long-time user of this feature through early access in the Windows Insider Program, I’ve found that it simply redirects to Bing.com when accessed. By right-clicking on the network/Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar and selecting ‘Perform speed test, ’ users can initiate an internet speed test via Bing.

Bing internet speed test

Bing’s speed test tool operates on Ookla technology, indicating that Microsoft has not developed a native internet speed test tool and relies on a third-party service for this functionality.

3. System Monitor Tool (Sysmon) Included

With the release of KB5077241, Windows 11 now incorporates System Monitor (Sysmon) functionality. This tool allows users to monitor various system activities and capture events, which is particularly useful for identifying potential security threats.

To activate Sysmon, follow these steps:

  • Navigate to Settings > System > Optional features.
  • Click on More Windows features.
  • Select Sysmon.

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