Windows Server 2022 KB5051979 Update: Fixes Key Issues and Enhances Stability

In an important February 2025 update, Microsoft has released Windows Server 2022 KB5051979—a patch that promises to restore lost functionality and resolve several lingering issues. Windows administrators have reason to celebrate as this update addresses problems that have disrupted operations for weeks, particularly concerning DAC and USB devices on Windows Server 2022.

What’s Fixed with KB5051979?​

The KB5051979 update, which bumps your system to Windows Server 2022 Build 20348.3207, is packed with important fixes and enhancements. Here are the main highlights:

• DAC and USB Device Restoration: After last month’s update, many users experienced non-functional DAC devices (USB 1.0 input) and cameras showing error code 10 in Device Manager. This update specifically targets and restores these critical device functionalities.
• Memory Leak Resolution: The update cures a notorious memory leak issue tied to predictive input ideas—a subtle bug that slowly sapped system resources.
• Device Health Attestation Service: Administrators will find relief as a persistent issue with the Device Health Attestation service—one that previously hindered upgrade processes on Windows Server 2016—is now fixed.
• Symbolic Links Stability: Windows Server 2022 now handles symbolic links more gracefully. Previously, accessing these file/folder links could lead to system crashes.
• System Guard Runtime Monitor Broker Service: While some residual error messages related to this service may still appear in the Event Viewer, Microsoft has confirmed these are harmless false errors. The service, which isn’t part of the core OS and is slated for removal in future updates, no longer impacts system performance.

Additional Fixes and Workarounds​

For organizations using OpenSSH and Citrix, this update is particularly crucial. The January 2025 update introduced conflicts that affected these features, but KB5051979 includes specific workarounds to ensure smooth operations for these environments.
Another point of interest is the occasional installation of the Outlook app after applying this update. Windows administrators can modify the Windows Registry to block web-based Outlook installations should that not be desired.

Where to Get the Update​

For ease of deployment, Microsoft has provided direct download links for the .msu file via the Microsoft Update Catalog. Administrators can download the package for the x64 architecture directly from the official site and apply it using your regular update procedures or via offline installation if necessary.

Broader Context and Industry Implications​

This update is trending not only because it fixes immediate issues but also due to its broader significance in maintaining system reliability. As Windows Server 2022 remains a backbone for enterprise operations, such fixes are essential to ensure seamless device connectivity and system performance.
It’s interesting to note that similar fixes are being rolled out to various Windows editions. For instance, Windows 10 users have experienced updates like KB5051974 that mirror some of these improvements. On a related note, upcoming updates for Windows 11—namely KB5051989 and KB5051987—further underline Microsoft's commitment to continuous system and device health improvements across its product suite.

How Does This Update Work?​

At its core, KB5051979 addresses deep-seated system-level issues. Here’s a simplified breakdown:

• Driver and Hardware Interface Fixes: By patching the interaction between the OS and peripheral devices, the update restores the functionality of DAC and older USB devices.
• Service Management Enhancements: With improved handling and eventual deprecation of non-essential services (like the System Guard Runtime Monitor Broker), the update ensures that error messages do not choke system logs or mislead administrators.
• Memory Management Improvements: Fixing the memory leak issues associated with predictive input indirectly benefits overall system responsiveness—a crucial consideration for server environments where sustained performance is essential.

Final Thoughts​

Windows Server 2022 KB5051979 is more than just another patch—it is a vital update that resolves several disruptive issues affecting device connectivity and system stability. Whether you’re restoring older peripheral devices or ensuring that symbolic links work without system crashes, this update is a race to stability that cannot be ignored.
Administrators should prioritize installing this update, especially where legacy hardware and third-party integrations like OpenSSH or Citrix are in use. As Microsoft continues to iron out the wrinkles, staying updated is the best way to keep your server environment secure and efficient.
Have you installed KB5051979 yet? What improvements have you noticed? Share your experiences and tips with the community on our forum below.

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Source: Windows Latest https://www.windowslatest.com/2025/02/14/windows-server-2022-kb5051979-released-direct-download-msu/