Microsoft Releases Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4713: New Features and Fixes for Insiders

Hello, Windows enthusiasts! Exciting news for Windows Insiders: Microsoft has rolled out Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4713 (KB5040525) to both the Beta Channel and the Release Preview Channel. This update promises a host of new features, bug fixes, and improvements tailored for Windows 10, version 22H2. Let’s dive deep into what this release offers and its implications for users in these channels.

Overview of the Release​

What’s New in This Release:

• Search on the Taskbar: The update fixes a long-standing issue where the search box did not appear on secondary monitors when the taskbar search setting was set to "Search box." This should streamline multitasking across multiple displays.
• FrameShutdownDelay: Previously, browsers ignored the FrameShutdownDelay value in the HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main registry key. This release rectifies the situation, ensuring browsers respect this configuration.
• Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) Enhancements: Improvements have been made to the Group Policy editor for HTML preview rendering, vital for network security and management.
• Group Policy Preferences Item Level Targeting (ILT) and Local Users and Groups: This issue affected Enhanced Security Admin Environment (ESAE), Hardened Forests (HF), or Privileged Access Management (PAM) deployments, where users could not choose a group from the target domain for ILT. The forest also did not appear. This release addresses these concerns.
• Transmission Control Protocol (TCP): Users reported systems stopping during routine tasks, like file transfers, due to the TCP send code leading to an extended send loop. This update implements fixes to address this issue.
• Print Support App: Users faced challenges with printing when using the Print Support App with a USB device. The app would stop responding and fail to print, limiting the user interface functions. This has been mitigated in the new build.
• Universal Print Clients: Communication failures with the Universal Print service were noted, especially when the Web Proxy Auto Discovery (WPAD) was turned on. This update aims to solve these connectivity issues.
• Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC): Multiple enhancements to WDAC, including preventing stop errors when applying more than 32 policies, addressing a memory leak issue, and ensuring WDAC verifies app policies correctly.
• Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist (DriverSiPolicy.p7b): The new update adds more drivers to the blocklist, preventing Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD) attacks.
• Windows Backup: The update addresses backup failures on devices with an Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) system partition.
• DHCP Option 235 (Known Issue): Devices using this option might encounter issues with Microsoft Connected Cache (MCC) nodes. Instead, they resort to downloading updates and apps from the public internet, increasing download traffic. This release addresses this concern to some extent.

  History and Context​

  The Windows Insider Program, initiated in 2014, has been pivotal in shaping the evolutionary path of Windows 10. Leveraging millions of Insiders worldwide, each new build released to Insider channels provides Microsoft with a treasure trove of feedback, helping finetune the operating system before general release. The Beta Channel is a critical element in this process, acting as a testing ground for features that are still in development. Comparatively, the Release Preview Channel is more about stability, showcasing features that are nearly ready for public use. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a stable OS. The iterative process of trial, feedback, and improvement has underscored every major update from Microsoft, making the Insider Program a linchpin in the software giant’s development strategy.

  Implications for Windows Users​

  For those on the Beta Channel, you'll be among the first to experience Microsoft's latest experiments. While these features might still be rough around the edges, your feedback is invaluable. Conversely, if you prioritize stability, the Release Preview Channel offers a more polished experience.

  Key Impact Areas:​

  1. Productivity Improvements: The fix for the search box on secondary displays is a boon for multitaskers using multiple monitors. Seamless search functionality can significantly enhance workflow efficiency.
  2. Network Security and Management: Enhancements in WPA3 and Group Policy Editor capabilities improve the security posturing and network management capabilities of enterprise environments.
  3. System Reliability: Addressing TCP send code issues and ensuring stable printing experiences tackle common user pain points, making daily operations smoother.
  4. Security Updates: WDAC and driver blocklist updates reinforce system defenses, providing robust protection against potential threats.

     Tips for Insiders:​

  []Toggle Latest Updates: Insiders in the Beta Channel should enable the toggle under Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update to get the latest features as soon as they are available. Over time, more features will be rolled out through this setting. []Feedback Participation: Engage actively with the Windows Insider Program. Provide feedback on new features via the Feedback Hub to help Microsoft refine and perfect these updates.
• Staying Updated: Regularly check for updates. While automatic updates ensure timely improvements, manual checks can sometimes prompt earlier reception of critical fixes.

  Recap of Key Highlights​

  1. Search Box on Secondary Monitors: Enhancements ensure a seamless search experience across multiple displays.
  2. Group Policy and WPA3 Updates: Improving network configuration management and security.
  3. TCP and Printing Fixes: Ensuring smooth file transfers and reliable printing capabilities.

  4. Enhanced Security Measures: Updates to WDAC policies and the driver blocklist fortify system protection. By staying informed of these shifts and actively participating in the feedback loop, Windows Insiders play a crucial role in shaping the future of Windows. For detailed insights, refer to the original announcement on the Windows Insider Blog. Thanks for being a part of this journey, and continue providing your invaluable feedback!​

     This post is for informational purposes, summarizing the key points from the official Windows Insider blog. For comprehensive details, always refer to the official source.