Microsoft has released two major Windows Insider updates — Windows 11 KB5079458 for the Beta Channel and KB5079464 for the Dev Channel — both of which introduce a significantly improved Windows 11 driver policy. Released on March 13, 2026, these builds push stricter kernel-level security for legacy cross-signed drivers, a smoother Windows setup experience, and practical new tools for IT administrators. If you are a Windows Insider or manage enterprise Windows deployments, these updates deserve your full attention.
What Are KB5079458 and KB5079464?
Microsoft rolled out two parallel Insider Preview builds on March 13, 2026. The Beta Channel received Build 26220.8062 (KB5079458), while the Dev Channel got Build 26300.8068 (KB5079464). Both target Windows 11 version 25H2, though the Dev Channel build is laying groundwork for the upcoming Windows 11 26H2. They share most of the same features, with a few Dev-exclusive additions.
Beta Channel (KB5079458)
Build 26220.8062 · Win 11 25H2
- New driver trust enforcement policy
- 100-hour audit mode for drivers
- Custom user folder name in setup
- Point-in-time restore dialog
- Dynamic Store app removal policy
- Drop Tray rename (was Drag Tray)
- WinRE power source reminder
Dev Channel (KB5079464)
Build 26300.8068 · Win 11 26H2
- All Beta Channel features above
- Microsoft 365 account settings improvements
- Pen tail button → Copilot key mapping
- Paused context menu refinements
- Improved display language reliability
- Fixed sfc /scannow error output
- Enterprise/Education debloat expansion
Windows 11 Driver Policy Gets Stricter: What Has Changed?
The headline feature of both Windows 11 KB5079458 and KB5079464 is a fundamental shift in how the Windows kernel handles third-party drivers. For years, the kernel trusted drivers from two programs: the now-deprecated cross-signed root program and the modern Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP). Starting with these builds, that blanket trust for older cross-signed drivers is being removed.
Custom User Folder Name During Windows Setup
This is a long-requested quality-of-life fix. Historically, Windows 11 automatically generated your user profile folder name by taking the first few characters of your Microsoft account email — often resulting in a truncated or awkward path like C:\Users\pc_name. Changing this later required risky registry edits or local account workarounds.
With KB5079458 and KB5079464, you can now type a custom name directly on the Device Name page during the initial out-of-box setup (OOBE). If you skip the field, Windows falls back to the default behavior as usual. The only requirement is that the name follows standard Windows file and folder naming rules.
Who Should Install KB5079458 and KB5079464?
These updates are available exclusively to Windows Insider Program members. KB5079458 is for those enrolled in the Beta Channel, which is recommended for users who want near-stable feature previews. KB5079464 targets the Dev Channel, suitable for enthusiasts and developers comfortable with more experimental builds.
Conclusion:
Windows 11 KB5079458 and KB5079464 represent one of the most security-focused Insider updates in recent memory. The new driver policy — backed by a careful 100-hour audit mode — signals Microsoft’s long-term push to make WHCP the only trusted path for kernel-level drivers. Combined with the overdue custom user folder naming fix, improved system recovery tools, and powerful new Group Policy controls for IT admins, these builds are well worth testing for any organization planning ahead for Windows 11 26H2.
