July 21, 2026, 9:04 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Microsoft has rolled out the July Patch Tuesday, delivering a substantial set of updates. Users of Windows 11 and many Windows 10 systems benefit from it. Due to the time difference, the package was available in Europe starting Wednesday, July 15, 2026. Overall, the update brings not only minor optimizations but also a significant number of security fixes.
Compared to previous Patch Tuesdays, the July update is particularly extensive. Microsoft has addressed around 570 vulnerabilities and bugs. This is significantly more than in June, when the company closed about 200 gaps. Microsoft once again emphasizes the importance of regular updates for system security.
Who Gets the Update Now
The update is primarily aimed at devices with supported versions of Windows 11. However, it also considers Windows 10 users, following the recent extension of support. Microsoft recommends installing the update promptly, as many security-related components are affected. With such a large number of fixes, the risk of attacks otherwise increases.
In addition to classic security updates, the patch includes everyday improvements. These include adjustments in system behavior and minor bug fixes that have only recently emerged in the past few months.
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What Has Specifically Improved
Microsoft highlights several areas that have been noticeably optimized with the update. This includes Secure Boot, which now more reliably distributes new certificates and covers more devices automatically. There are also important fixes for apps, especially for third-party programs that work with Microsoft Office and have sometimes failed to start correctly.
In terms of input, Microsoft has adjusted the behavior of keyboard shortcuts. In rare cases, certain functions temporarily do not respond as usual, but they can usually be quickly resolved with a restart. In the network area, a new security measure ensures that unregistered transport services can be blocked. This increases security but may occasionally cause issues with older applications.
Further Changes in the System
Microsoft has also revised smaller details. The company has fixed an error in the Recycle Bin where incorrect file names were displayed. Additionally, the curl tool is updated to a new version, which also offers security advantages. In Remote Desktop, there is an upgrade to more modern certificates, while older standards are only supported temporarily.
According to the patch notes, Microsoft updates internal AI components of Windows 11. Functions like image search or semantic analysis work more efficiently as a result. This is complemented by an update to the so-called servicing stack, which aims to make the installation process of Windows updates more stable.