Windows Updates Cause Desktop Loading Issues for Some Users

Microsoft has confirmed that recent Windows updates have caused desktop loading issues for some users. The affected users may experience black screens after sign-in, preventing access to their desktop until they manually start the desktop session. Application event logs may also show Windows Explorer crashes.

The issue primarily affects Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) hosts using FSLogix, a software solution that speeds up user profile loading in virtual desktop environments. However, users who installed KB5120996 (Windows 11 26H1), KB5120998 (Windows 11 24H2/25H2), and this month's Patch Tuesday updates (KB5124008 and KB5122880) may also experience these symptoms.

Until a permanent fix is available, Microsoft suggests that users can temporarily work around the issue by manually launching Windows Explorer. This can be done by opening Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc), selecting Run new task, entering explorer.exe, and clicking OK.