Windows 10 and 11: Microsoft has discreetly installed a “secret” update on certain PCs

Deployed silently by Microsoft, the KB5001716 update intrigues. No visible change, no explicit notification … but a very real presence on certain computers. Officially, it aims to improve Windows Update. In reality, she anticipates a critical moment for millions of machines: The end of the Windows 10 support.

KB5001716: Microsoft prepares your PC at the end of Windows 10 without telling you

The KB5001716 update is neither cumulative nor functional. This is a component intended exclusively for the proper functioning of the Windows Update service. Concretely, its role is to inform the user when it uses a version of Windows close to its end of support date (EOS) – notably Windows 10:200 a.m. or Windows 11:2 p.m. – and, if necessary, automatically trigger the installation of a more recent functional update.

This module also allows Windows to generate more frequent and more visible system alerts (without however interrupting a game or a full screen content), in order to recall the limitations of the current version: absence of security fixes, non-compliance with minimum hardware requirements, etc.

In other words, KB5001716 is a trigger: it strengthens the logic of Windows 10 migration to Windows 11 or towards a more recent version still supported. It is a “passive” update in its behavior, but “active” in its purpose: to ensure the continuity of the support by orienting, even forcing, the users to more recent versions of the OS.

Microsoft has already announced that free security updates for Windows 10 will stop in October 2025, except specific subscription. With KB5001716, Redmond ensures that the message is well received, before users find themselves without a net.

Here are the official patch notes:

• Once this update has been installed, Windows will be able to try to download and install functionality updates on your device if the currently installed version of Windows is approaching or has already reached the end of its support. The functionalities updates introduce new functions and contribute to maintaining the safety of your device.
• After installation, Windows will be able to periodically display notifications informing you of certain problems likely to prevent Windows Update from maintaining your device and protected against current threats. For example, you may receive a notification indicating that:
  • Your device runs a version of Windows having reached the end of its support cycle,
  • Or that your equipment does not meet the minimum requirements required for the current version of Windows.
• Note: These notifications will respect the full screen, game, hours of silence and concentration assistant modes.

Want to save even more? Discover Our promo codes Selected for you.