KB5072033 – Fix installation issues for Windows 11 today!

What is Windows 11 Update KB5072033?

KB5072033 is Microsoft’s December 2025 Patch Tuesday cumulative update for Windows 11. This mandatory security update was released on December 9, 2025, and applies to Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. After installation, your system will be updated to build 26100.2605.

As a cumulative update, KB5072033 includes all previous security and quality updates, meaning you don’t need to install earlier patches if your system is behind. The update focuses on three main areas: security patches, feature enhancements, and bug fixes.

This update is automatically downloaded and installed through Windows Update. However, some users have reported various issues ranging from installation failures to system performance problems, which we’ll cover in detail throughout this guide.

New Features and Improvements in KB5072033

While KB5072033 is primarily a security update, it also brings several user-facing improvements and feature enhancements to Windows 11:

Security Patches Included in KB5072033

KB5072033 addresses 36 security vulnerabilities across various Windows components. This makes it a critical update for maintaining your system’s security.

Component	Severity	Description
Windows Kernel	Critical	Elevation of privilege vulnerabilities patched
Windows Defender	Important	Security feature bypass addressed
Windows Print Spooler	Important	Remote code execution vulnerability fixed
Windows Graphics	Important	Information disclosure vulnerabilities patched
Windows Networking	Important	Multiple denial of service issues resolved
Microsoft Office Integration	Moderate	Security enhancements for Office-Windows interaction

Known Issues and Problems with KB5072033

Despite its importance, KB5072033 has been associated with several issues reported by users worldwide. Here are the most common problems:

1. Installation Failures

Some users have reported that the update fails to install with various error codes, most commonly:

• Error 0x800f0991 – Component store corruption
• Error 0x800f0983 – Package dependency issue
• Error 0x80070002 – File not found
• Error 0x80073712 – CBS manifest corrupt

2. Dell PC Specific Issues

3. WSL Networking Issues with VPNs

Microsoft has officially confirmed a bug affecting Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) when users enable mirrored networking mode alongside certain third-party VPNs. Symptoms include:

• Complete loss of network connectivity inside WSL
• DNS resolution failures
• Unable to reach the internet from the Linux environment

4. Performance Degradation

Some users have noticed slower system performance after installing KB5072033. This is often caused by the AppXSVC (AppX Deployment Service) running continuously in the background, consuming significant CPU and disk resources.

5. File Explorer Issues

While the update fixes the File Explorer white flash bug for dark mode users, some have reported new issues with File Explorer becoming unresponsive or crashing when navigating certain directories.

How to Install KB5072033

KB5072033 is distributed through Windows Update and should install automatically. However, if you need to manually install it, follow these steps:

Method 1: Via Windows Update

1. Open Windows Settings – Press Windows + I or click Start → Settings.
2. Navigate to Windows Update – Click on “Windows Update” in the left sidebar.
3. Check for Updates – Click the “Check for updates” button. Windows will search for and display KB5072033 if available.
4. Download and Install – Click “Download & install” if the update doesn’t start automatically. Wait for the download to complete.
5. Restart Your PC – Click “Restart now” when prompted to complete the installation. Save all your work before restarting.

Method 2: Manual Download from Microsoft Update Catalogue

If Windows Update isn’t working, you can download the update manually:

1. Visit the Microsoft Update Catalogue
2. Search for “KB5072033”
3. Download the version matching your system (x64 for most modern PCs)
4. Run the downloaded .msu file
5. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart when prompted

Troubleshooting KB5072033 Installation Errors

If you’re experiencing issues installing KB5072033, try these troubleshooting methods:

Fix 1: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

1. Open Settings – Press Windows + I
2. Navigate to Troubleshoot – Go to System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters
3. Run Windows Update – Click “Run” next to Windows Update and follow the on-screen instructions

Fix 2: Run SFC and DISM Commands

Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run these commands:

sfc /scannow

Wait for completion, then run:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Restart your computer and try the update again.

Fix 3: Clear Windows Update Cache

1. Stop Windows Update Services – Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:

net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
net stop cryptsvc

2. Delete Update Cache – Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution and delete all files inside the Download folder.
3. Restart Services:

net start wuauserv
net start bits
net start cryptsvc

Fix 4: Perform a Clean Boot

Third-party software may interfere with Windows Update. Try installing the update in a clean boot state:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, press Enter
2. On the Services tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services”
3. Click “Disable all”
4. On the Startup tab, click “Open Task Manager”
5. Disable all startup items
6. Restart and try the update again

How to Uninstall or Roll Back KB5072033

If KB5072033 is causing problems on your system, you can uninstall it to return to the previous state.

Method 1: Through Settings (If Windows Boots Normally)

1. Open Settings – Press Windows + I
2. Go to Update History – Navigate to Windows Update → Update history
3. Uninstall Updates – Click “Uninstall updates” at the bottom of the page
4. Find and Remove KB5072033 – Locate KB5072033 in the list, click on it, and select “Uninstall”
5. Restart Your PC – Restart your computer to complete the uninstallation

Method 2: Through Recovery Mode (If Windows Won’t Boot)

1. Hold Shift and click Restart, OR force restart your PC 3 times to enter Recovery
2. Choose Troubleshoot → Advanced options
3. Select “Uninstall updates”
4. Choose “Uninstall latest quality update”
5. Follow the prompts to remove KB5072033

Dell PC Specific Issues and Fixes

Dell PC users have been disproportionately affected by KB5072033, with many reporting critical issues. Here’s what we know and how to address these problems:

Recommended Steps for Dell Users

1. Update BIOS: Visit Dell’s support website and download the latest BIOS for your specific model before attempting the update.
2. Update Dell Drivers: Use Dell SupportAssist or manually download the latest drivers from Dell’s website.
3. Check Dell Advisories: Dell may have published specific guidance for your model regarding this update.
4. Disable Secure Boot Temporarily: Some users have reported success after temporarily disabling Secure Boot in BIOS.
5. Clean Install Option: If all else fails, a clean Windows 11 installation may resolve hardware conflicts.

If you own a Dell PC in Canberra and are experiencing these issues, our technicians at Local Geeks have experience resolving Dell-specific Windows update problems. We can diagnose your specific configuration and apply the appropriate fix.

Performance Problems After Installing KB5072033

If your Windows 11 PC feels slower after installing KB5072033, you’re not alone. Here’s what might be causing it and how to fix it:

AppXSVC Service Issue

The most common cause of post-update slowness is the AppX Deployment Service (AppXSVC) running continuously. This service verifies and indexes Windows Store apps after major updates.

How to Check:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
2. Look for “AppX Deployment Service” or high CPU/Disk usage
3. The service should settle down after 30-60 minutes

If It Doesn’t Stop:

1. Open Services – Press Windows + R, type services.msc, press Enter
2. Find AppX Deployment Service – Scroll down to find “AppX Deployment Service (AppXSVC)”
3. Restart the Service – Right-click → Restart. This can help clear any stuck processes

Other Performance Tips

• Wait it out: Post-update optimisation can take several hours. Let your PC run for a while after the update.
• Restart multiple times: Windows may need multiple restarts to complete all background tasks.
• Check for additional updates: Sometimes, performance patches are released shortly after major updates.
• Disable startup programs: Reduce the number of programs starting with Windows.

Frequently Asked Questions – KB5072033

What is Windows 11 update KB5072033?

KB5072033 is the December 2025 Patch Tuesday cumulative update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. Released on December 9, 2025, it includes 36 security patches, expanded dark mode support in File Explorer, virtualisation controls in Settings, and various bug fixes. It updates Windows 11 to build 26100.2605.

What new features does KB5072033 introduce?

Key features include expanded dark mode in File Explorer confirmation dialogues, Virtual Workspaces toggle in Settings for Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox management, improved Windows Share experience with OneDrive integration, a redesigned About page in Settings, and enhanced accessibility settings.

Why is KB5072033 not installing on my PC?

KB5072033 installation may fail due to error 0x800f0991 (component store corruption), insufficient disk space, corrupted Windows Update components, or hardware compatibility issues (particularly on certain Dell PCs). Running the Windows Update Troubleshooter, checking system files with SFC and DISM commands, or seeking professional help can resolve these issues.

Is KB5072033 causing problems on Dell computers?

Yes, some Dell PC users have reported installation failures, system freezes, and Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors after installing KB5072033. The issue appears related to specific Dell hardware configurations. Updating BIOS, checking device drivers, or rolling back the update may help resolve these issues.

How do I uninstall or roll back KB5072033?

To uninstall KB5072033: Go to Settings → Windows Update → Update history → Uninstall updates → Find KB5072033 → Click Uninstall. If Windows won’t boot, use Recovery Mode (hold Shift while restarting) → Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Uninstall updates.

Why is my Windows 11 slow after installing KB5072033?

Slow performance after KB5072033 may be caused by the AppXSVC (AppX Deployment Service) running continuously in the background. This service indexes and verifies Windows Store apps after updates. The issue usually resolves after initial processing (30-60 minutes), but if it persists, restarting the service or seeking technical assistance may be necessary.

Does KB5072033 affect WSL and VPN connections?

Yes, Microsoft has confirmed a bug where Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) experiences networking issues when using mirrored networking mode with certain third-party VPNs. Users may lose network connectivity inside WSL. A workaround involves switching WSL networking mode or temporarily disabling the VPN.

Is KB5072033 a mandatory security update?

Yes, KB5072033 is a mandatory cumulative security update that addresses 36 vulnerabilities in Windows 11. While users can temporarily pause updates for up to 5 weeks, Microsoft strongly recommends installing security updates to protect against potential exploits and maintain system security.

How do I fix error 0x800f0991 when installing KB5072033?

Error 0x800f0991 typically indicates component store corruption. Fix it by: 1) Running Windows Update Troubleshooter, 2) Executing SFC /scannow and DISM commands in elevated Command Prompt, 3) Clearing the Windows Update cache, 4) Performing a clean boot, or 5) Manually downloading the update from Microsoft Update Catalogue.

Should I install KB5072033 or wait?

While KB5072033 contains important security patches addressing 36 vulnerabilities, users experiencing critical work deadlines may consider waiting 1-2 weeks for Microsoft to address reported issues. However, delaying security updates increases vulnerability risk. Users with Dell PCs or specific configurations should research compatibility before installing.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many KB5072033 issues can be resolved with the troubleshooting steps above, some situations require professional expertise:

• Repeated BSOD errors that prevent normal Windows operation
• Boot loops where Windows keeps restarting during startup
• Data recovery needs when update causes file system issues
• Complex Dell hardware conflicts requiring BIOS-level diagnosis
• Enterprise/business environments where downtime is costly
• Multiple failed troubleshooting attempts with no resolution
• Concerns about data loss during repair attempts

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