Microsoft's Windows 11 is currently under fire as users report significant issues following the recent update. Many users have encountered problems stemming from the February 2025 release, identified as KB5051987, which has disrupted the functionality of File Explorer, one of the operating system's most integral components. This latest mishap raises concerns as Microsoft gears up for the impending end of support for Windows 10, leaving many to question the reliability of their new operating system.
According to reports from Windows Latest, the KB5051987 update has not been installing correctly for some users and has been causing operational headaches. Specifically, users have found File Explorer to be unresponsive when attempting to open folders such as Desktop, Documents, or Pictures. Users stated, "File Explorer does not open when you try to access it via the desktop shortcut or use Windows Search." Despite the application being listed as functional in the Task Manager, it has left many feeling stranded due to its inability to perform basic tasks. One frustrated user recounted, "File Explorer’s interface isn’t completely broken because they can still open Home and Gallery through the sidebar. No other folders will open.”
This situation has prompted immediate action from many users, with recommendations to uninstall the problematic update. To do this, users are advised to navigate to Windows Update within Settings, select the patch, hit the ‘Uninstall’ button, and confirm their decision. After rebooting, users will revert to the January 2025 Update, and they can choose to reinstall the patch later if desired. Windows Latest urges users who encounter this issue to pause updates for at least three weeks to avoid recurrent complications. They anticipate most problems will be resolved with the next optional update set to roll out later this month.
Such problems are particularly disconcerting as Microsoft strives to promote Windows 11 as its flagship operating system. The coercive nature of Windows updates, which install automatically, adds to the frustration for those experiencing glitches. This has raised questions about whether Microsoft can effectively support its users as the transition from Windows 10 continues. A seamless experience is what many expect, especially when it pertains to security and reliability — cornerstones of Microsoft’s upgrade strategies.
On the brighter side, as users grapple with these issues, some have discovered innovative ways to restore productivity. The Explorer Tab Utility has emerged as a lightweight solution for managing multiple file directories more effectively than traditional methods. Unlike managing numerous open windows for different files, the Explorer Tab Utility allows users to operate multiple instances of File Explorer within the same window as tabs, similar to how modern web browsers function.
For users who frequently need to access various folders simultaneously—be it for projects, comparisons, or uploads—the Explorer Tab Utility provides a far more organized environment. Users can easily switch between folders without taking up excessive screen space. This application requires Windows 11 version 22H2 (Build 22621 or later). Upon installation, it instantly becomes active, presenting the tabbed format automatically for subsequent Explorer windows.
Detailed features of the Explorer Tab Utility include capabilities to open multiple folders at once, which streamlines workflows, especially for power users. Users can drag tabs to rearrange them, pull them out to create separate windows if desired, or even recover any mistakenly closed tabs. To make the experience even smoother, the application can be configured with hotkeys, allowing quick access to frequently opened directories.
Despite initial concerns of being flagged as malware by antivirus programs, users can rest assured; the Explorer Tab Utility is open-source and customizable, with assurance of its safety. Users are advised to enable autostart features so it launches alongside their system, streamlining their experience right from boot-up.
While issues with Windows 11 continue to frustrate many, the introduction of utility applications like Explorer Tab Utility shows users are finding ways to work around the operating system’s limitations. Microsoft may need to address troubling updates urgently to maintain users' trust, especially as the narrative surrounding Windows 11 continues to develop. With deadlines looming for the phasing out of Windows 10, the company will be under scrutiny to deliver positive user experiences and reduce friction within their latest operating system.