KB5037591 Problems: Fixes & Workarounds

KB5037591, a Windows 10 cumulative update released in June 2024, is causing a range of problems for some users, including installation failures, boot loops, and performance issues. If you are affected, the most reliable fixes are to uninstall the update, run the Windows Update troubleshooter, or use the Media Creation Tool to repair your installation. Below is a detailed breakdown of the reported issues and step-by-step solutions.

What Is KB5037591?

KB5037591 is a cumulative update for Windows 10 versions 22H2 and 21H2, released on June 11, 2024 (Patch Tuesday). It includes security fixes for vulnerabilities in the Windows operating system, as well as quality improvements. Like most cumulative updates, it is delivered through Windows Update and contains all previously released fixes, so installing it is generally recommended for security. However, as with any major update, some users encounter problems during or after installation.

Common Reported Problems

Users have reported several distinct issues after installing KB5037591. The most frequently mentioned problems include:

• Installation failures: The update fails to install with error codes like 0x800f081f, 0x80070002, or 0x800f0922.
• Boot loops: Some systems restart repeatedly after the update, failing to reach the desktop.
• Performance degradation: Sluggishness, high CPU or disk usage, and unresponsive apps after the update.
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues: Disconnections or inability to connect to networks or devices.
• Start menu and search problems: The Start menu not opening or search not returning results.
• Blue Screen of Death (BSOD): Some users encounter stop errors like CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED or SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION.

Note that these issues are not universal; many users install the update without any problems. The reports come from a subset of users, often with specific hardware or software configurations.

Why Do These Problems Occur?

Cumulative updates can fail or cause issues for several reasons:

• Corrupted system files: If your Windows installation already has corrupted files, the update may not apply cleanly.
• Driver incompatibilities: Outdated or incompatible drivers, especially for network adapters or graphics cards, can conflict with new update code.
• Antivirus interference: Third-party security software can sometimes block or interfere with the update process.
• Insufficient disk space: Windows needs a certain amount of free space to install updates; if you are low, the installation may fail.
• Pending updates: If other updates are waiting, they can conflict with the new one.

How to Fix KB5037591 Problems

If you are experiencing issues, try the following steps in order. Start with the simplest and move to more involved solutions.

1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically fix common update problems.

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
2. Select Additional troubleshooters.
3. Choose Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your PC.

2. Uninstall the Update

If the update installed but causes problems, uninstalling it can restore your system to a working state.

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > View update history.
2. Click Uninstall updates.
3. Find KB5037591 in the list, select it, and click Uninstall.
4. Restart your PC. Windows may try to reinstall it automatically; you can pause updates temporarily to prevent that.

3. Use the Media Creation Tool for an In-Place Repair

If uninstalling doesn’t work or you want to keep the update, you can perform an in-place repair using the Media Creation Tool. This reinstalls Windows while keeping your files and apps.

1. Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s official website.
2. Run the tool and select Upgrade this PC now.
3. Follow the prompts, choosing to keep personal files and apps.
4. After the process completes, check if the problem is resolved.

4. Check for Driver Updates

If you suspect a driver issue, update your drivers, especially for network and graphics devices.

1. Open Device Manager (right-click the Start button and select it).
2. Expand categories and right-click a device, then choose Update driver.
3. Select Search automatically for drivers.

5. Free Up Disk Space

Ensure you have at least 10-20 GB of free space on your system drive. Use Disk Cleanup to remove temporary files.

1. Type Disk Cleanup in the Start menu and open it.
2. Select the drive (usually C:) and click OK.
3. Click Clean up system files and select everything, then OK.

How to Prevent Future Update Problems

While not every issue can be avoided, these practices reduce the risk:

• Back up your data: Regularly back up important files to an external drive or cloud service.
• Create a restore point: Before installing a major update, create a system restore point so you can roll back if needed.
• Delay updates: If you want to avoid being an early adopter, you can pause updates for up to 35 days in Windows 10 Pro (not available in Home edition).
• Keep drivers updated: Regularly update drivers from the manufacturer’s website, not just through Windows Update.
• Use a clean installation: If you have persistent problems, consider a clean install of Windows 10, which eliminates any underlying corruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is KB5037591 safe to install?

Yes, for most users it is safe. It contains important security fixes. The problems reported are limited to a subset of users with specific configurations. If you are concerned, you can wait a few weeks after release to see if any widespread issues are reported, and then install it.

How do I uninstall KB5037591 if it’s causing problems?

Go to Settings > Update & Security > View update history > Uninstall updates. Find KB5037591 in the list, select it, and click Uninstall. Restart your PC. To prevent it from reinstalling automatically, you can temporarily pause updates in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

Why does KB5037591 fail to install with error 0x800f081f?

This error often indicates corrupted system files or a problem with the Windows Update component. Try running the System File Checker (sfc /scannow) and DISM (Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth) in an elevated Command Prompt. If that doesn’t work, use the Media Creation Tool to repair your installation.

Can I block KB5037591 from being installed?

Yes, you can pause updates temporarily, but that only delays it. To block it permanently, you would need to use the Windows Update Blocker tool or manually hide the update using the Show or Hide Updates troubleshooter from Microsoft. Note that this is not recommended because you will miss security fixes.

Will Microsoft fix the problems with KB5037591?

Microsoft typically addresses known issues in subsequent cumulative updates. If a problem is widespread, they may release a fix outside the regular schedule. You can check the Windows 10 release health dashboard on Microsoft’s website for known issues and resolutions.

What should I do if I have a boot loop after installing KB5037591?

If your PC keeps restarting, try booting into Safe Mode. To do this, interrupt the boot process three times (turn off when the Windows logo appears) to trigger Automatic Repair, then go to Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart and press 4 or F4 for Safe Mode. Once in Safe Mode, uninstall the update as described above. If that fails, use the Media Creation Tool to repair.

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