Microsoft has released a new out-of-band update for Windows 10, specifically designed to address issues affecting users since the December 9 release. The update addresses issues with the Message Queuing system (MSMQ), which was causing resource limit messages and disk space problems in certain versions of Windows. This latest fix bundles corrections from earlier releases and is crucial for users on version 22H2 who are experiencing MSMQ-related problems. Additionally, a separate Servicing Stack Update includes improved checks for devices hosted on Azure and uses an updated certificate chain to prevent errors with future updates.

Windows 10 KB5074976 (OS Builds 19044.6693 and 19045.6693) Out-of-band released

Microsoft has released a new out-of-band update for Windows 10 ESU (22H2) and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, specifically designed for OS Builds 19044.6693 and 19045.6693. This update addresses various issues that have been affecting users since the December 9 release. This isn't a regular cumulative patch; it's a targeted rollup focused on fixing issues.

The big problem people seem to be encountering involves the old Message Queuing system (MSMQ), particularly after installing previous Windows updates back then. For users on version 22H2, essentially Windows 11, this update is crucial if their MSMQ functionality started acting up. Many faced messages about resource limits or disk space, leading to inactive message queues and giving everyone a headache.

This latest fix bundles together some of the corrections from earlier December releases (like KB5071546 for builds 19045.6691/19044.6691), directly addressing that MSMQ mess along with other related annoyances. If you've already installed those older bits, this new package should just add the remaining fixes needed.

Looking deeper at how Windows updates work, there's also news about Servicing Stack Updates (SSU). These are separate downloads designed to improve the reliability of the update process itself by fixing potential glitches during installs. Think of them as helping things run smoothly with future updates.

This latest SSU includes a smarter check for devices hosted on Azure and uses an updated certificate chain for validation, which helps prevent certain errors down the line. It's highly recommended you install this specific SSU before tackling other updates if your machine is running on Azure or relies heavily on certificate checks; basically, ensure it can grab the necessary update domains to download those certificates.

For security details, Microsoft directs users to their new Security Update Guide site and a dedicated December 2025 page. Version 22H2 users should also check the official Windows site for its full history.

December 18, 2025—KB5074976 (OS Builds 19044.6693 and 19045.6693) Out-of-band

December 18, 2025—KB5074976 (OS Builds 19044.6693 and 19045.6693) Out-of-band - Microsoft Support