An out-of-band (OOB) cumulative update, KB5078127, to address critical file system compatibility issues affecting Windows 11 users.
The update resolves widespread problems introduced by the January 13, 2026, security update (KB5074109) that caused application freezes and cloud storage failures across multiple platforms.
The most significant fix addresses file system corruption affecting cloud-based storage applications.
Users reported severe issues when attempting to open or save files to OneDrive, Dropbox, and other cloud services.
In particularly problematic scenarios, Outlook configurations that store personal storage table (PST) files on OneDrive experienced complete application hangs, forcing users to terminate processes or restart their systems to regain functionality manually.
Additional issues included missing sent items and previously downloaded emails being unnecessarily re-downloaded, creating significant productivity disruptions for enterprise users managing large mailboxes.
Update Classification and Delivery
KB5078127 is classified as a cumulative OOB update that incorporates all security and quality improvements from the January 13 security update (KB5074109).
The January 17 OOB update (KB5077744), plus these additional critical file system fixes. This approach ensures users receive comprehensive protection through a single installation.
The update includes a combined servicing stack update (SSU KB5071142, version 26100.7295) that improves Windows Update installation reliability.
Microsoft now bundles SSU packages with cumulative updates to streamline patching.
The update is available through Windows Update and the Microsoft Update Catalog. Devices with automatic updates enabled will receive KB5078127 automatically.
For manual installation, users navigate to Settings > Windows Update and select Download & install.
IT administrators can accelerate deployment with Microsoft Intune using the “Expedite Windows quality updates” functionality, or with Windows Autopatch for a rapid organizational rollout.
KB5078127 updates four AI components to version 1.2511.1224.0: Image Search, Content Extraction, Semantic Analysis, and Settings Model. These improvements enhance Windows 11’s integrated AI capabilities.
Microsoft identified one minor issue: the password icon may appear missing or invisible on the lock screen sign-in options. This does not affect authentication functionality.
The combined SSU and LCU package cannot be partially removed. While administrators can remove the LCU using DISM commands, the SSU component remains permanently installed.
Users cannot uninstall either component using the Windows Update Standalone Installer.
Organizations should prioritize deploying KB5078127 to affected Windows 11 instances, particularly systems with Outlook configurations storing data in cloud storage environments.
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