Microsoft's latest Windows 11 updates have brought a mix of improvements, fixes, and some unexpected challenges that users should be aware of. The November 2023 cumulative updates (KB5032190 and KB5032189) address several critical issues while introducing new considerations for enterprise environments and everyday users alike.

File Explorer Performance Issues Emerge

One of the most noticeable impacts of the recent updates has been on File Explorer performance. Numerous users across Microsoft's feedback hub and tech forums report:

  • Slower navigation when browsing network shares
  • Increased CPU usage during file operations
  • Random crashes when accessing certain folders
  • Delayed thumbnails generation for media files

Microsoft has acknowledged these reports in their known issues documentation, stating they're working on a resolution. Temporary workarounds include:

  1. Restarting the Windows Explorer process
  2. Clearing the thumbnail cache
  3. Disabling preview panes for network locations

Why this matters: File Explorer remains the primary interface for file management for most Windows users. Performance degradation here impacts productivity across all user segments.

VMware Workstation Pro Compatibility Fixes

The updates include important fixes for users running VMware Workstation Pro on Windows 11:

  • Resolved BSOD (Blue Screen of Death) issues when starting virtual machines
  • Fixed memory management conflicts between Hyper-V and VMware
  • Improved GPU passthrough compatibility

These changes come after months of reported instability following Windows 11's stricter virtualization requirements. VMware has released updated drivers (version 17.0.2) that fully leverage these Windows updates.

Enterprise impact: Organizations relying on VMware for development or testing environments should:

  • Apply both Windows and VMware updates
  • Verify VM stability before production deployment
  • Consider testing nested virtualization scenarios

DES Encryption Deprecation Begins

Microsoft has started the phased removal of DES (Data Encryption Standard) encryption support:

  • Disabled by default in new installations
  • Warning events logged when legacy systems attempt DES connections
  • Complete removal planned for 2024 updates

This move aligns with NIST's 2023 guidance declaring DES as officially deprecated for all government use. Modern alternatives include:

Encryption Standard Security Strength Windows Support
AES-256 High Full
ChaCha20 High Partial
3DES Medium Legacy
DES Low Deprecated

Migration considerations: Enterprises should audit:

  • Legacy hardware using DES (ATMs, medical devices)
  • Custom applications with hardcoded DES algorithms
  • Third-party integrations relying on deprecated protocols

Additional Update Highlights

The cumulative updates include several other noteworthy changes:

Security Improvements

  • LSASS protection enhancements against credential theft
  • Smart App Control refinements for better false-positive handling
  • Windows Defender performance optimizations

User Experience Tweaks

  • Start menu reliability fixes for pinned items
  • Snap layouts improvements for ultrawide monitors
  • Voice access command recognition upgrades

Under-the-Hood Changes

  • NTFS journaling optimizations
  • TCP/IP stack adjustments for modern networks
  • Power management refinements for hybrid work devices

Update Installation Recommendations

Based on current reports, we suggest:

  1. Home users: Wait 7-10 days after release to monitor for additional issues
  2. Businesses: Deploy to test groups first, particularly if using:
    - Network file shares
    - Virtualization software
    - Legacy encryption
  3. IT administrators: Review the new Group Policy options for DES control

Looking Ahead

Microsoft's Windows 11 development team appears focused on:

  • Modernizing security foundations (like the DES removal)
  • Refining virtualization support for diverse workloads
  • Balancing innovation with system stability

The next major update (expected Q1 2024) may include:

  • A redesigned File Explorer (currently in testing)
  • Expanded AI integration points
  • Further virtualization stack improvements

Final thoughts: While these updates bring important fixes, the File Explorer issues remind us that even routine updates can introduce new challenges. A measured approach to deployment, coupled with awareness of both improvements and potential regressions, remains the wisest strategy for Windows 11 users.