The 2026-01 Preview Update KB5074105 has caused problems for many Windows users after installation. Although preview updates are meant to improve performance and stability, this update has triggered unexpected errors on some systems.
If your PC started acting strangely after installing KB5074105, don’t worry. In this guide, you’ll learn what issues this update causes and how to fix them step by step.
Common Issues Caused by KB5074105
After installing the 2026-01 preview update, users have reported several problems. Most of them appear immediately after a system restart.
Common KB5074105 issues include:
- PC stuck on restart or boot loop
- Slow system performance
- Windows Explorer freezing or crashing
- Apps failing to open
- Taskbar not responding
- Wi-Fi or Ethernet disconnecting
- High CPU or disk usage
- Update failing to install or rollback
As a result, normal PC usage becomes frustrating.
Fix 1: Restart Windows Explorer
First of all, try restarting Windows Explorer, especially if the taskbar or desktop freezes.
Steps:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
- Open Task Manager
- Find Windows Explorer
- Right-click → Restart
In many cases, this instantly restores normal behavior.
Fix 2: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
Next, use the built-in troubleshooter to detect update-related issues.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I → System
- Go to Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters
- Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
- Apply suggested fixes and restart
Consequently, update conflicts are often resolved automatically.
Fix 3: Repair Corrupted System Files
If KB5074105 damaged system files, repairing them helps.
Steps:
- Search Command Prompt
- Right-click → Run as administrator
- Run these commands one by one:
sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
After completion, restart your PC.
Fix 4: Uninstall KB5074105 (Recommended)
If problems persist, uninstalling the preview update is the most effective fix.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I → Windows Update
- Open Update history
- Click Uninstall updates
- Find KB5074105
- Select Uninstall
- Restart your PC
Once removed, your system should return to normal stability.
Fix 5: Pause Windows Updates Temporarily
To prevent the update from reinstalling automatically, pause updates.
Steps:
- Open Windows Update
- Click Pause updates
- Select Pause for 1–5 weeks
This gives Microsoft time to release a stable fix.
Fix 6: Fix Boot Loop or Startup Issues
If your PC fails to boot after KB5074105:
Steps:
- Force shut down your PC 2–3 times
- Enter Windows Recovery Environment
- Select Advanced options → Startup Repair
Alternatively, uninstall the update from recovery mode.
Fix 7: Update Drivers
Outdated drivers often conflict with preview updates.
Steps:
- Open Device Manager
- Update:
- Display drivers
- Network adapters
- Storage controllers
- Restart your PC
As a result, system stability improves.
Fix 8: Perform System Restore
If nothing works, roll back to a previous restore point.
Steps:
- Search Create a restore point
- Click System Restore
- Choose a restore point before KB5074105
- Complete the restore process
This safely reverts system changes.
Should You Install Preview Updates?
Preview updates like KB5074105 are optional. They are mainly designed for testing. Therefore, if your PC is used for daily work or gaming, skipping preview updates is often the safer choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is KB5074105?
KB5074105 is a January 2026 Preview Update for Windows, released for testing and bug fixes.
Is KB5074105 mandatory?
No, preview updates are optional and not required for system security.
Can KB5074105 cause boot issues?
Yes, some users report boot loops and startup failures.
Should I uninstall KB5074105?
Yes, if your PC becomes unstable after installing it.
Conclusion
The 2026-01 Preview Update KB5074105 has caused performance, startup, and stability issues on some Windows PCs. Fortunately, uninstalling the update, repairing system files, and pausing future updates can quickly restore normal operation. Until Microsoft releases a stable fix, avoiding preview updates is the best approach.
🖥️ Keep your system stable and update smartly!
