The release of Windows 11 version 24H2 introduced a series of challenges for gamers, notably performance degradation and game instability. Initial reports suggested that these issues were linked to NVIDIA's graphics drivers, leading to the release of driver version 576.02 aimed at resolving these problems. However, subsequent investigations revealed that the root cause was within the Windows operating system itself, specifically in the graphics kernel responsible for GPU communication.
To address these concerns, Microsoft released the optional update KB5058499, which includes build 26100.4202. This update rectifies the graphics memory leak and resolves issues causing certain games to become unresponsive post-upgrade to Windows 11 24H2. The release notes explicitly state:
Beyond gaming-specific fixes, KB5058499 also addresses several other issues:"[Graphics kernel] Fixed: An issue where some game titles become unresponsive after upgrading to 24H2."
- BitLocker on Removable Drives: Resolved a blue screen error occurring when using BitLocker on removable drives.
- Boot Menu Screens: Fixed anomalies in boot menu displays.
- Input Service Memory Usage: Corrected increased memory usage caused by the Input Service.
- Windows Hello Face Enrollment: Ensured functionality in multi-app mode and basic camera mode.
The initial misattribution of the problem to NVIDIA underscores the complexity of diagnosing performance issues in modern computing environments. This situation highlights the importance of thorough investigation and collaboration between hardware manufacturers and software developers to ensure optimal user experiences.
As the gaming community continues to navigate these updates, user feedback remains invaluable. Sharing experiences with the latest updates can assist others in making informed decisions about their systems.
In conclusion, the release of KB5058499 marks a significant step toward stabilizing Windows 11 24H2 for gaming. Users are advised to apply this update promptly to benefit from the resolved issues and improved system performance.
Source: Windows Report Windows 11 24H2 now stable for gaming with KB5058499