Microsoft released an out‑of‑band (OOB) update on January 2026 that resolves two critical regressions in Windows 11 version 23H2: devices with Secure Launch could not shut down or hibernate, and Remote Desktop authentication failed. The cumulative patches KB5077744 and KB5077797 are available via Windows Update and must be installed immediately to restore normal operation.
Root Causes of the January 2026 Regressions
The January 13, 2026 Patch Tuesday security update introduced two high‑impact bugs:
- Shutdown & hibernation failure – A regression triggered on PCs with the Secure Launch firmware feature, causing shutdown attempts to restart the system instead of powering off.
- Remote Desktop (RDP) authentication failure – The same update broke RDP sign‑in, preventing remote access for both enterprise administrators and home users across multiple hardware configurations.
Microsoft’s Emergency Out‑of‑Band Response
Microsoft classified the issues as “high‑impact regressions” and issued two separate cumulative OOB updates, each accompanied by a servicing‑stack update (SSU) to ensure reliable installation.
Key Updates
- KB5077744 – Fixes the shutdown and hibernation problem on Secure Launch‑enabled devices.
- KB5077797 – Restores Remote Desktop authentication functionality.
- KB5071142 (SSU) – Improves the reliability of the Windows Update component, enabling the emergency patches to install without errors.
Why the OOB Release Was Necessary
Windows 11’s servicing model relies on monthly security patches and periodic quality updates. The extensive security content of the January 2026 Patch Tuesday compressed testing windows, increasing the risk of regressions when updates intersect with complex hardware security features like Secure Launch. Deploying an OOB update shortly after a regular Patch Tuesday is rare, underscoring the severity of the bugs.
Impact on Users and Enterprises
The shutdown bug can drain batteries on laptops and tablets, force hard resets, and risk data loss. The RDP bug disrupts remote administration—a cornerstone of modern IT operations, especially in hybrid‑work environments. Microsoft advises immediate installation of the emergency patches through Windows Update or manual download from the Microsoft Update Catalog using the KB numbers.
Best Practices for IT Administrators
- Verify that KB5077744 and KB5077797 are installed on all affected devices.
- Monitor Windows Update logs for successful deployment of the SSU KB5071142.
- Consider staged rollouts or extended validation periods for critical security updates to balance rapid patching with regression testing.
Looking Ahead
The emergency patches restore normal shutdown and Remote Desktop functionality for Windows 11 builds 26200.7627 and 26100.7627. Microsoft’s next scheduled quality update is expected in the February 2026 servicing cycle, where additional validation will aim to prevent similar regressions. Continuous monitoring and prompt remediation remain essential for maintaining user trust in the Windows ecosystem.
