Microsoft has identified an issue affecting Windows 11 enterprise PCs, where UI elements like the Taskbar and Start menu may fail after recent updates. The problem impacts devices running Windows 11 version 24H2 or 25H2 updates from July 2025 onwards, but personal PCs are largely unaffected.

Enterprise Update Challenges

The issue arises due to the operating system's failure to register certain XAML packages after updates. Affected systems experience components such as Explorer, the Start menu, and Windows Search not loading properly. This bug can cause major disruptions to system use.

Solutions and Workarounds

Microsoft has advised IT administrators to manually register missing packages to address the UI failures. Using the Add-AppxPackage command ensures these packages are correctly registered, restoring functionality. In non-persistent environments, a logon script can register these packages before Explorer launches.

Current Status and Expectations

The company is actively working on a fix, though no definitive solution is currently available. For now, Microsoft's guidance focuses on manual workarounds to minimize disruption. Most personal Windows 11 devices remain unaffected by these issues.

Close All Windows

Close All Windows download for free to PC or mobile

Quickly close all active windows to declutter your desktop and streamline tasks.

4
556 reviews
3259 downloads

News and reviews about Close All Windows

17 Jan 2026

Microsoft's Patch Tuesday Fixes 112 Vulnerabilities in January

January's Patch Tuesday addresses 112 vulnerabilities, including zero-days in Windows. Users may face minor issues as fixes roll out.

Read more

16 Jan 2026

Windows 11 Patch Causes Shutdown Issues with Secure Launch

Secure Launch bug affects Windows 11 PCs, preventing shutdown, causing battery drain. Microsoft's fix is pending.

Read more

16 Jan 2026

Windows 11 23H2 Shutdown Bug Affects System Guard Devices

Windows 11 23H2 PCs face shutdown issues post-January update, impacting System Guard Secure Launch.

Read more

16 Jan 2026

Major Shift in User Intentions: Windows Migration Looms

A 2025 poll suggests growing interest in Windows migration due to dissatisfaction with Windows 11.

Read more

15 Jan 2026

Microsoft Update: Secure Boot Certificates for Windows 11

Microsoft updates Secure Boot certificates for Windows 11 users, preventing software vulnerabilities. Critical for PCs made before 2024.

Read more

15 Jan 2026

Windows 11 Overhauls Start Menu with KB5067036 Update

Microsoft's new Windows 11 Start menu layout, part of KB5067036 update, reorganizes app display and divides the menu into three sections.

Read more

15 Jan 2026

Launch Windows 11 26H1 Preview in Insider Program

Microsoft releases Windows 11 26H1 preview in Canary channel, focusing on future-ready hardware integration.

Read more

14 Jan 2026

Fix 114 Vulnerabilities: Windows 11 Patch Tuesday 2026

Microsoft addresses 114 flaws in Windows 11's January 2026 Patch Tuesday. Key fixes include a Windows Desktop Window Manager zero-day vulnerability.

Read more

14 Jan 2026

CES 2026 Unveils AI-Driven Innovations in Windows PCs

CES 2026 showcases AI advancements across Windows PCs, revealing new devices and processors from Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and more.

Read more

12 Jan 2026

Windows 11 Criticized for Performance Issues in Benchmarks

Windows 11 draws criticism after benchmarks reveal it's the slowest OS in 25 years, impacting boot times and app performance. Users demand efficiency.

Read more