Windows 11’s February update breaks File Explorer and more

Update KB5051987, released last week for Windows 11 24H2, was supposed to bring important security fixes and quality-of-life improvements.

However, some users who installed the cumulative February update are now reporting numerous problems, ranging from download failures and restrictions on camera use to a completely unusable File Explorer.

According to Windows Latest, there are various reports of bizarre user experiences after installing update KB5051987, which raise questions about the stability and reliability of the update.

File Explorer problems

Arguably, the biggest issue with the KB5051987 patch is that File Explorer becomes unresponsive for some users. When trying to open folders — such as Desktop, Documents, or Pictures — it simply stops responding. Apparently, File Explorer can’t even be opened via desktop shortcut or Windows search.

However, File Explorer doesn’t appear to be completely defective, as it continues to run in the background and can still be activated via the sidebar in some cases. Nevertheless, content can no longer be displayed, which is extremely annoying for affected users.

Even a system restore or reinstallation doesn’t seem to help. And for some, this has even led to a completely black desktop.

Download and installation problems

Some users report that they’re unable to install the KB5051987 update at all. The security update is mandatory for everyone and should actually be downloaded and installed automatically, but in this case the installation simply stops. An error message is presented, then the system tries to download the update again at a later time.

However, the repeat attempts don’t seem to work, which is why some users report that they’re stuck in an hours-long update loop. With a little patience, the update seems to install eventually… but not for everyone.

If you have similar problems, it may help to clear the software distribution folder where Windows stores all update files. If in doubt, however, you should wait and give your PC ample time to install.

Camera and other problems

Last but not least, users are also reporting camera problems after installing the February 2025 patch for Windows 11 24H2. Something similar happened back in January when webcams from various manufacturers stopped working. Here, too, the system apparently reports that it can’t recognize the camera after installing the update.

Other reported problems with the KB5051987 update include:

• Performance drops while gaming.
• Errors while installing apps in Windows Sandbox.
• Faulty preview animations in the taskbar.
• Isolated reports from users who are no longer able to boot into Windows after the update and have to boot manually via the BIOS.

What you can do

If you’re experiencing serious problems with the February patch, you can try uninstalling it. To do this, go to Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates. Find the KB5051987 update and click Uninstall for it. Note that you’ll be missing key security fixes while this update is uninstalled, until Microsoft releases a future update.