- The update KB5051987 is severely affecting File Explorer, preventing its use in many cases.
- Installation problems: Some computers get stuck in the process or experience critical failures such as blue screens.
- Other detected faults: inoperative webcams, mouse crashes and drops in overall system performance.
- Interim solutions: It is recommended to uninstall the update and pause Windows 11 automatic updates.
Windows 11 is making headlines again due to problems caused by one of its updates. This time, update KB5051987 , released in February 2025, has generated multiple bugs affecting a large number of users. Although this patch was initially intended to fix errors and improve system stability , the result has been the opposite: numerous users have reported that their experience has been severely impacted.
Issues arising from update KB5051987
One of the most notable issues with this update is the malfunctioning of File Explorer . On some computers, this essential system tool is unresponsive when attempting to access folders such as Desktop, Documents, or Pictures . In other cases, it simply won't open, regardless of the method used to launch it.
The most curious thing is that the Explorer process remains active in the background , which can be verified in the Task Manager. However, for many users there is no way to interact with it, which greatly complicates system management.
Installation errors and system crashes
In addition to the File Explorer crash, other users have reported problems during the update installation . Some have seen the process get stuck at 96% without completing the patch, while in other cases the installation has been excessively prolonged without success.
Some reports indicate that this bug has also resulted in blue screens of death or the inability to boot Windows 11 after installation. This situation has generated frustration among users, as it is not the first time an update has caused problems with Microsoft's operating system.
Other bugs caused by the update
The problems aren't limited to File Explorer and the installation process. Issues have also been reported with peripherals such as webcams, mice, and even the taskbar. Some users have noticed broken taskbar animations , while others have observed reduced system performance after installing the patch.
On some laptops, power consumption has increased, significantly reducing battery life. Additionally, the clipboard history has stopped working correctly, leading to further problems with daily system use.
Temporary solutions to the problem
Given the magnitude of the errors, many users have sought alternatives to mitigate the problems until Microsoft offers a definitive solution. One of the most recommended options is to uninstall update KB5051987 . To do this, follow these steps:
- Access to Configuration using the key combination Win + I.
- Walk into Windows Update and select Update history.
- Find the section Uninstall updates and locate KB5051987.
- Proceed with the uninstall and reboot the system to apply the changes.
Additionally, it is recommended to pause automatic updates until Microsoft releases a corrected version to prevent the problem from recurring.
For those still experiencing problems with File Explorer, a possible temporary solution is to open Task Manager and restart the Explorer.exe process . However, this only provides a temporary improvement and does not permanently resolve the issue.
Once again, users are seeing how an update designed to improve the security and stability of Windows 11 has turned into a major headache, affecting essential system functions. While Microsoft works on a permanent fix, the best option remains to uninstall the patch and stay tuned for future updates.