Microsoft delivered its July 2026 Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11 on July 14, 2026. This release introduces a new point-in-time restore feature that gives users more control over system stability. The update also enforces stricter encryption standards for domain environments and refines the update pause interface.
New restore feature takes daily snapshots for Home and Pro users
The patch identifier for this release is KB5095093. It addresses a critical privilege-escalation vulnerability known as RoguePlanet, tracked as CVE-2026-50656. This flaw affected the Microsoft Malware Protection Engine and was patched out of band on July 8 before being included in the cumulative update.
A major addition is the Point-in-time Restore capability, which leverages the Volume Shadow Copy Service. The system now captures automatic snapshots every 24 hours for drives of 200GB or larger. These restore points are retained for up to 72 hours by default on Windows 11 Home and Pro editions.
Microsoft has also refined the Update Pause feature with a new calendar interface. Users can now select an exact pause date up to 35 days in the future. This pause setting is renewable indefinitely, allowing for longer maintenance windows without manual reconfiguration.
Security updates include the final phase of Kerberos RC4 retirement. The RC4DefaultDisablementPhase registry key has been removed to enforce AES encryption for domain controllers. Accessibility changes include a new Screen Tint overlay and a tweak to Windows Widgets behavior.
Windows Widgets no longer open automatically when users hover over the taskbar. The update prevents Windows Widgets from opening automatically when hovering over the taskbar, which reduces accidental interruptions for users who prefer a cleaner desktop experience. The update is available globally to all supported Windows 11 devices.
Source: NotebookCheck
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