Windows 11: Microsoft Alert, the mysterious empty file should absolutely not be deleted

We were talking about it recently: The April 2025 update for Windows 11 (version 24h2) triggered a wave of confusion: An empty file, named Inetpubappeared on many PCs.

Many deleted it, thinking of an error. Microsoft today clarifies the situation: this folder is not a forgetfulness, but a crucial element of a security correction. Yes, you read that right. And if it has been erased, it must be restored.

A security correction disguised as a useless file

On his blog dedicated to security updates, Microsoft explains that in reality, the file Inetpub is designed to strengthen the safety of the operating system. It is used to correct a local vulnerability, a flaw that can be used by a person with physical access to the machine. This flaw would allow an attacker to force access to protected files or modify critical directories.

Here is the exact declaration of Microsoft:

In other words: whether or not you use the IIS services, the presence of Inetpub is essential for the fix to work. Delete it, and your machine remains vulnerable. Amazing, and dabgereux, too.

But then, what if you have already deleted the file? Good news: it is possible to recreate the file manually, without going through a complete resettlement. Here is the procedure:

1. Open the configuration panel.
2. Go to programs> Programs and features.
3. Click Activate or deactivate Windows features (left).
4. In the list, check the Internet Information Services (IIS) box.
5. Click OK.

This action will recreate the file Inetpub. You can then deactivate iis if you don't need it: the folder will remain present, and the fix will remain active. But the situation could have been avoided with a clear line in version notes or a notification in Windows Update … At a time when cybersecurity is also based on the transparency of publishers, this kind of blur is difficult to forgive.