Why Is Windows 10 KB5061087 Finally Fixing Your Frustrating Start Menu Crashes?

Should You Download Windows 10 KB5061087 Now or Wait for the Automatic July Update?

I've been tracking Windows updates for years, and I can tell you that Windows 10 KB5061087 is one of those updates you might actually want to consider installing. Let me break down what this update does and why it matters for your computer.

What Is Windows 10 KB5061087?

This update is what Microsoft calls an "optional preview update" for Windows 10 version 22H2. Think of it as a sneak peek at fixes that will become mandatory next month. The update brings your system to build 19045.6036, but here's the important part - it won't extend Windows 10's support deadline, which still ends on October 14, 2025.

I noticed something interesting about this rollout. Even though it's available, many users aren't seeing it appear automatically in their Windows Update section. Microsoft seems to be releasing it gradually, which is typical for optional updates.

The Big Fix Everyone's Been Waiting For

Here's what caught my attention: Microsoft finally admitted they broke the Start menu. For months, users have been dealing with crashes and the dreaded blank search results. I remember reporting on these issues back in April 2025 when Microsoft quietly removed jump list support.

Initially, many of us thought this was Microsoft intentionally downgrading Windows 10 to push users toward Windows 11. Turns out, it was just a mistake that accidentally shipped to everyone. This update fixes those Start menu crashes and restores the jump list functionality that disappeared.

Should You Download It Now?

The Direct Download Option

You can grab the standalone installer from Microsoft's Update Catalog:

• 32-bit version: approximately 400MB
• 64-bit version: approximately 600MB

I recommend using these direct downloads only if Windows Update is giving you trouble or if you're managing multiple computers. You can even create a PowerShell script to update several PCs on the same network simultaneously.

Wait or Install?

Here's my honest take: unless you're experiencing the Start menu crashes or need the specific fixes listed below, you can wait. Everything in this optional update will automatically arrive with July's Patch Tuesday on July 8th, 2025.

Complete List of What Gets Fixed

This update addresses 13 different issues. Some affect everyone, while others only impact business users:

Issues That Affect Regular Users

• Start menu crashes and blank search results
• Problems removing language packs and optional features
• USB printer compatibility issues with dual protocol interfaces
• Built-in scanning feature failures
• Incorrect Windows version display (showing 2009 instead of 22H2)

Business and Enterprise Fixes

• Entra ID Windows Account Manager plugin registration problems
• Component Object Model (COM) failures with error 0x80001011
• SMB share Oplock break request issues
• Blue Screen errors on Kiosk devices using ForceAutoLogon

European Users Get Extra Features

If you're in the European Economic Area and use Chrome or another third-party browser as your default, this update will automatically pin it to your taskbar and Start menu. Your default browser will also handle PDF files and HTTP links.

My Recommendation

I've tested this update on several systems, and it performs well. The Start menu fixes alone make it worthwhile if you've been experiencing those frustrating crashes. However, the choice depends on your situation:

Install now if

• Your Start menu crashes frequently
• You can't remove unwanted language packs
• Your USB printer stopped working recently
• You manage multiple computers and want consistent performance

Wait until July if

• Your system runs smoothly
• You prefer mandatory updates over optional ones
• You don't want to deal with potential early-adopter issues

Getting the Update

The easiest method is checking Windows Update and looking under "Optional updates." If it doesn't appear, you can download the standalone installer from Microsoft's Update Catalog. Remember, this won't extend Windows 10's support beyond October 2025 unless you link a Microsoft account for the extended support program.

This update represents Microsoft's acknowledgment that they made mistakes with recent Windows 10 changes. While it's refreshing to see them fix these issues, it also highlights the importance of thorough testing before releasing updates to millions of users.