How to Fix Windows 10/11 January 2026 Update (KB5073724) Freezing Issues

Did your PC start freezing after the latest Windows update? You are not alone. Many users in Tier 1 countries are reporting system crashes, unresponsive apps, and shutdown failures after installing the January 2026 security patch (KB5073724). Here is the immediate fix to get your computer back to normal.

​What is the KB5073724 Bug?

​The latest Microsoft update was intended to fix security vulnerabilities, but it has introduced a "core system bug" that affects process termination. Users are reporting that they cannot close programs like Chrome or Excel, and the only way to turn off the PC is a forced hardware shutdown. This is a critical issue for professionals and gamers alike.

​Step-by-Step Fix for KB5073724 Freezing

​If your system is unstable, follow these steps to resolve the issue until Microsoft releases an official hotfix:

  1. Uninstall the Update:
    • ​Go to Settings > Update & Security > View Update History.
    • ​Click on Uninstall updates.
    • ​Find KB5073724, right-click, and select Uninstall.
  2. Pause Windows Updates:
    • ​To prevent the bug from reinstalling, go to Windows Update settings and select "Pause updates for 7 days".
  3. Run DISM Command:
    • ​Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. This will fix any corrupted system files caused by the faulty update.

​When Will Microsoft Release a Fix?

​Based on previous "Patch Tuesday" bugs, we expect an emergency cumulative update (Out-of-band) within the next 48 to 72 hours. We are monitoring the Microsoft Community Hub and will update this page the moment a permanent solution is available.