Microsoft has rolled out Windows 11 update KB5046756, introducing significant improvements to File Explorer, advancing passwordless authentication, and refining system performance. This optional non-security update (build 226x1.4166) delivers tangible quality-of-life enhancements for users while laying groundwork for future Windows 11 features.

File Explorer Gets Smarter

The update brings substantial changes to File Explorer, Windows' central file management interface:

  • Gallery View Enhancement: The photo-focused view now remembers your preferred sorting method (date taken, file name, etc.) between sessions
  • OneDrive Integration: File status icons (cloud, synced, etc.) now appear instantly rather than requiring manual refresh
  • Performance Boost: Microsoft claims 30% faster loading times for folders containing large numbers of image files
  • New Keyboard Shortcuts: Ctrl+Shift+N now creates new folders in all views (previously only worked in some contexts)

The Passwordless Future Advances

KB5046756 expands Microsoft's push toward eliminating passwords:

  • Windows Hello for Business Improvements: Facial recognition and fingerprint authentication now work more reliably across hybrid Azure AD environments
  • Passkey Management: New Settings > Accounts > Passkeys section centralizes management of FIDO2 credentials
  • Automatic Fallback: When biometrics fail, the system now intelligently suggests phone-based authentication rather than defaulting to passwords

Under-the-Hood Improvements

Several backend changes improve system reliability:

  • Memory Management: Better handling of memory leaks in certain gaming scenarios
  • Task Manager Fixes: Resolved an issue where GPU temperature readings would occasionally freeze
  • Bluetooth LE Audio: Added support for newer Bluetooth Low Energy audio devices
  • HDR Calibration: The HDR calibration app now preserves settings across driver updates

Known Issues

Microsoft documents two current limitations:

  1. Some VPN apps may fail to connect after update (workaround available)
  2. Certain legacy printers may require reinstallation of drivers

How to Get the Update

Available through these channels:

  • Windows Update: Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates (optional update)
  • Microsoft Update Catalog: Manual download available for enterprise deployment
  • WSUS: Available to organizations using Windows Server Update Services

Enterprise-Specific Changes

For business users, KB5046756 includes:

  • Group Policy Updates: 14 new policies for managing Copilot integration
  • BitLocker Performance: Faster encryption/decryption on systems with modern CPUs
  • Remote Desktop Improvements: Better scaling on high-DPI multi-monitor setups

Looking Ahead

This update serves as a bridge to the anticipated 24H2 release expected later this year, with many of these features likely to be enhanced further in the next major version. Microsoft continues its pattern of delivering meaningful improvements between major releases rather than saving everything for big annual updates.

User Reactions

Early adopters report:

  • Positive feedback on the File Explorer changes, particularly from photographers
  • Mixed reactions to passwordless push, with some users preferring traditional methods
  • Noticeable improvement in overall system responsiveness on mid-range hardware

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter issues after installing:

  1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
  2. Check for updated drivers, especially for printers and VPN software
  3. Consider creating a system restore point before installation if concerned about stability

Microsoft expects to roll most of these improvements into the next mandatory security update, making them available to all Windows 11 users automatically in the coming weeks.