A recent update for Windows, released on Patch Tuesday in September, has caused issues with the File History feature, according to user reports. Some users have found that after installing the update, they can no longer create or run backups using File History. Affected users may see messages prompting them to reconnect their backup drive, even when the drive is properly connected and functioning. Additionally, the timestamp for the last backup may not update, and previously backed-up files might show an error stating no previous version is available.
The issue affects all current versions of Windows 11, including Windows 11 26H1, 25H2, 24H2, and 23H2. Windows 10 users who are enrolled in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which provides ongoing security patches, are also affected. These users continue to receive monthly updates but are now encountering the same File History problems.
To determine if they are affected, users can check the Windows Event Viewer for crash events related to FileHistory.exe or KERNELBASE.dll. This can be accessed by right-clicking the Start button and selecting "Event Viewer." From there, users should expand the "Windows Logs" section, click on "Application," and then filter the log to show only "Error" level events under "Application Error." Any entries referencing FileHistory.exe or KERNELBASE.dll indicate the issue is present.
File History has long been a key feature in Windows, allowing users to back up and restore important files, including those in standard folders like "Documents," "Pictures," and "Videos." However, Microsoft has classified it as an obsolete feature, meaning it is no longer actively developed. The company now recommends using alternatives like OneDrive or the Windows Backup program for file synchronization and recovery.
A preliminary update to fix the issue was released on Tuesday and is available for download. This update is optional and can be found in the "Windows Update" section of the Settings app. Users should look for an update titled "2026-09 Preview Update" with a specific KB number. The KB number varies depending on the Windows 11 version being used. For example, users of Windows 11 26H1 should look for KB5124006, while those using Windows 11 25H2 or 25H2 should look for KB5124010. Once found, users can click "Download and install" to apply the update.
While this preliminary update may contain bugs, it is currently the only solution for users who rely on File History. Alternatively, users can wait for the October Patch Tuesday update, which will also include the fix. However, it's important to note that Microsoft no longer supports the Windows 11 23H2 version and Windows 10 is only supported through the ESU program. For users needing File History on these systems, Microsoft says a future update will include a fix for this issue.
Microsoft September Windows Update Disrupts File History Feature, Fix Available for Some Versions
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