Microsoft Urges Users to Uninstall Problematic Windows 11 Update After Widespread Issues

Microsoft has issued a public advisory urging users to uninstall the Windows 11 January 2026 security update (KB5074109) after widespread reports of system and application issues. The update, which began rolling out on January 13, upgrades affected systems to OS Build 26200.7623 or similar versions, but users have experienced problems including black screens, app crashes, and Outlook Classic freezing.

Outlook Classic users are particularly affected, especially those using POP accounts or local PST files stored in cloud-synced folders like OneDrive. Reports include the app freezing, displaying “Not Responding,” failing to close, or repeatedly redownloading emails, often rendering it unusable. Microsoft advises switching to Outlook webmail or uninstalling the update until a permanent fix is released.

The issues extend beyond Outlook, with users reporting broken File Explorer customizations, reset desktop settings, and apps freezing when accessing cloud storage services. Microsoft has provided temporary workarounds, such as moving PST files out of cloud-synced folders or using webmail, but if problems persist, users can uninstall the update via Settings > Windows Update > Update history. Microsoft cautions that removing the patch could expose systems to security risks, as it included over 100 security fixes.

While Microsoft has addressed other critical bugs from this update cycle, including Remote Desktop and system shutdown issues, the Outlook Classic problem remains unresolved. The company is investigating the root cause and plans to release a broader fix in a future update, marking a challenging start to Windows 11’s 2026 update cycle.