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Why Is My Camera Not Working After the January 2026 Windows 11 Update?
Microsoft deployed the optional preview update KB5074105 for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 on January 29, 2026. While this release intends to patch existing bugs, early reports indicate it introduces significant hardware and interface instability. As this is a preview release testing code for the upcoming February Patch Tuesday, we strongly advise against installing it on primary production machines.
Understanding the Preview Update Cycle
This update targets “unmanaged” systems, specifically home users who manually check for updates. Microsoft utilizes these preview releases to crowdsource testing before finalizing the mandatory security updates released the following month.
- Availability: This update appears only via the standard Windows Update channel for consumers or the Microsoft Update Catalog.
- Exclusions: Systems managed by WSUS or Windows Update for Business will not automatically receive this package.
- Risk Profile: By installing this, you effectively volunteer your device for beta testing.
Critical Hardware Failure: Laptop Cameras
The most severe issue reported involves immediate camera malfunction upon installation. Users on Reddit and Microsoft Q&A forums note that integrated webcams, particularly on Acer laptops, cease to function entirely.
- Symptoms: The camera app may flash continuously, fail to load video, or display hardware error messages across all web-based meeting platforms.
- The Fix: Current user feedback confirms that uninstalling KB5074105 immediately restores camera functionality.
Interface Instability: Lock Screen and Taskbar
Visual bugs are plaguing the Windows shell experience for some adopters.
- Disappearing Widgets: Reports indicate the lock screen clock and associated widgets vanish approximately two seconds after the system wakes or boots.
- Taskbar Latency: Users have observed significant delays—up to one minute—for the taskbar to load after a restart. While this specific lag often resolves as the operating system re-indexes files post-update, it disrupts immediate workflow.
Connectivity Issues: Wi-Fi Failure
Isolated reports suggest potential conflicts with network adapters. Specific cases detail a progressive failure where browsers lose connectivity first, followed by a total system-wide inability to access Wi-Fi networks, even while other household devices remain connected.
Recommendation
Do not click “Download and Install” for KB5074105. The risks to hardware stability outweigh the benefits of early bug fixes. Wait for the cumulative security update scheduled for February 2026, which will include these fixes in a more stable, tested package.