Windows 11 Insider Preview KB5043168: Enhanced 6 GHz Hotspot Connectivity

On October 1, 2024, Microsoft unveiled the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.1912, identified as KB5043168, aimed at users in the Dev Channel. This build is notable for introducing several enhancements, with a primary focus on improving hotspot internet connectivity, particularly via the newly supported 6 GHz band.

What’s New in KB5043168?​

One of the standout features of this build is its enhancement of the Windows Mobile Hotspot capabilities. Previously limited to 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, Windows 11 can now leverage the higher frequency range of 6 GHz, which is becoming increasingly popular due to the superior performance it can offer. However, there are some caveats; not all hardware configurations will support this frequency, and users will require updated drivers and compatible network chips.
Here's how you can check and possibly enable this feature:

1. Open Settings.
2. Navigate to Network & Internet.
3. Click on Mobile Hotspot.
4. Edit the mobile hotspot properties to enable the 6 GHz band when connecting high-speed devices.

Speedy Connections Await​

The introduction of 6 GHz connectivity means users can expect significant improvements in internet speeds when utilizing a mobile hotspot. For example, if you’ve got a 5G-enabled smartphone acting as a hotspot, connecting your Windows 11 laptop could result in lightning-fast data transfers, allowing you to stream videos or download large files with ease.

Additional Fixes and Improvements​

Alongside the exciting new features, KB5043168 addresses several bugs and usability problems:

• Rust OSS Components: Attribution has now been added to .txt files, enhancing transparency.
• Task Manager: Previously, users complained of a white background on the Settings page; this has been resolved.
• App Performance: The previous issue where Task Manager would freeze when switching themes has also been fixed.
• WebView2: A bug preventing input detection from Xbox 360 and Bluetooth controllers in WebView2 applications has been remedied.

However, it's essential to note that the build has encountered some known issues. For instance, clicking a letter in the Start menu's "All Apps" list might cause it to malfunction. Microsoft suggests restarting your computer or reloading explorer.exe as a quick fix.

Future Outlook​

As part of the latest build announcements, Microsoft also teased an easier way to sign out of Windows 11, pointing to an ongoing effort to streamline user experiences across its platform. For those eagerly waiting for more improvements, the full changelog and future updates will be continuously documented in Microsoft's Insider blog, allowing users to stay informed.

Conclusion​

KB5043168 is a promising step forward for Windows 11 users, particularly for those reliant on mobile hotspots for connectivity. The ability to access faster speeds through the 6 GHz band opens new possibilities for mobile computing, aligning well with the increasing demand for high-speed internet on the go. As always, testing such features in the Insider channels helps refine the overall operating system and establish a robust user experience ahead of official releases.
For existing Windows 11 insiders, the continual push of updates and patches signals a proactive approach from Microsoft, one that aims not just to solve immediate issues but also to enhance the overall functionality and performance of the OS.
Source: Windows Report The latest KB5043168 to the Dev Channel significantly improves hotspot Internet connections