Windows 11 KB5019157 is now available for download on version 21H2 (original) with a couple of improvements and several bug fixes. As usual, Microsoft has also published direct download links for Windows 11 KB5019157 offline installers – these can be used to manually upgrade the systems.
KB5019157 is an optional update for Windows 11 version 21H2 and it cannot be applied to any newer version of the operating system. This isn’t a big cumulative update, but it includes plenty of significant fixes and improvements. For example, Microsoft is bringing back Quick Assist to Windows 11 with the update.
For those unaware, Windows 11 was shipped last year without the Quick Assist app, which is a tool that allows users to view or control a device remotely over a network or the internet, and it is used by companies to solve issues on their employee’s hardware. The tool works remotely and allows anyone to resolve issues without directly touching the PC.
This optional patch would show up as “2022-11 Cumulative Update Preview for Windows 11 Version 21H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5019157)” on Windows Update. To begin the installation, simply tap on the “download and install” link, and reboot the system when asked.
After installing the update, your device system build number will bump to Windows 11 Build 22000.1281 and the version number would remain 21H2.
Download Links for Windows 11 KB5019157
Windows 11 KB5019157 Direct Download Links: 64-bit
The link opens Microsoft’s Update Catalog where you can click on the ‘Download’ button next to the version of the OS installed on your machine.
Windows 11 KB5019157 (Build 22000.1281) changelog
In addition to Quick Assist, Microsoft has also fixed persistent failures for the Microsoft Store when trying to install new updates. The update fixes an issue that affected the reliability of app installations on systems managed by an enterprise.
Microsoft has fixed several other bugs, including an issue that affects Unified Update Platform (UUP) on-premises customers. A bug has been fixed where D3D9 could stop working when you use Remote Desktop. It also addresses an issue that affects the Windows Firewall service.
Here’s a list of all major bug fixes and changes:
- Fixed an issue where apps might run on the Windows Lock Down Policy (WLDP).
- Fixed an issue that affects Defender for Endpoint.
- Fixed an issue that affects TextInputHost.exe.
- Fixed an issue that affects pinned apps on the Start menu.
In addition to the above bug fixes, the update also ships with Windows 11 servicing stack update – Build 22000.1270. Installing the bundled servicing stack could make quality improvements to the servicing stack which ensures a robust and reliable Windows Update experience.
In the documentation, Microsoft confirmed at least two minor known issues in this release:
- Users might run into issues with Kerberos authentication.
- Users might not be able to connect to Direct Access if they temporarily lose network connectivity.
The company is not aware of any major known issue and we couldn’t find reports of widespread problems either. It is safe to assume that Windows 11’s November 2022 Update is stable and can be installed on primary machines, but it is always better to skip optional updates as you can the bug fixes in the next month’s Patch Tuesday cycle.
Those on Windows 11 22H2 will be getting a different optional update later this month.
It is also worth mentioning that Microsoft won’t be rolling out new optional updates in December due to minimal operations during the holiday season (Western new year season). While the optional updates won’t be released, there will be a monthly security release for December 2022.
