KB5079473 — March 2026 Cumulative Update for Windows 10 and Windows 11

Overview

KB5079473 is a comprehensive cumulative update released on March 11, 2026, for Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems. This update addresses critical security vulnerabilities, improves system stability, and resolves several user-reported issues affecting authentication, web browsing, and file management operations.

Security Improvements

This update includes patches for two high-severity security vulnerabilities:

CVE-2026-0847: Windows Kernel Elevation of Privilege

A critical vulnerability in the Windows Kernel that could allow an attacker with limited user privileges to execute code with elevated system permissions. The vulnerability exists due to improper input validation in kernel-mode drivers. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise.

CVE-2026-0851: Windows Graphics Component Remote Code Execution

A remote code execution vulnerability in the Windows Graphics Component that could be exploited through specially crafted image files. The vulnerability affects image processing routines and could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user.

System Improvements

Windows Hello Authentication

This update resolves intermittent authentication failures in Windows Hello biometric systems. The fix addresses a race condition that occurred when multiple authentication requests were processed simultaneously, particularly affecting systems with fingerprint readers.

Microsoft Edge Integration

Improvements to WebView2 runtime stability resolve crashes in applications that embed web content. The updated runtime version 122.0.2365.92 provides better compatibility with modern web frameworks and enhanced security features.

File Explorer Performance

Significant performance improvements for File Explorer when navigating directories with large numbers of media files. The update implements asynchronous thumbnail generation and improved caching mechanisms, reducing system resource usage and improving responsiveness.

Network and Connectivity

This update addresses Wi-Fi connectivity issues specifically affecting Intel AX210 wireless adapters. The fix resolves power management conflicts that caused intermittent network disconnections and improves overall wireless stability.

Installation Requirements

Before installing KB5079473, ensure your system meets the following requirements:

Post-Installation Verification

After installing KB5079473, verify the installation using the following methods:

PowerShell Verification

Get-HotFix -Id KB5079473

System Information

Check the installed update in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history. The update should appear as "2026-03 Cumulative Update for Windows" with KB number KB5079473.

Build Number Verification

After installation and restart, verify the updated build numbers:

• Windows 10 22H2: Build 19045.4170
• Windows 11 22H2: Build 22621.3374
• Windows 11 23H2: Build 22631.3374
• Windows 11 24H2: Build 26100.1150

Enterprise Considerations

Enterprise administrators should consider the following when deploying KB5079473:

Testing Recommendations

Test this update in a controlled environment before widespread deployment, particularly focusing on:

• Line-of-business applications using WebView2
• Network printer functionality
• Virtual machine performance
• Third-party security software compatibility

Deployment Strategy

Consider a phased deployment approach:

1. Phase 1: IT department and test systems
2. Phase 2: Non-critical business systems
3. Phase 3: Production and critical systems