Microsoft's anticipated Windows 11 24H2 update is finally here—but it comes with a mysterious file users are struggling to remove. Some Windows 11 users noticed that after updating their PCs, System > Storage > Temporary files shows a "Windows Update Cleanup" cache that's 8.63GB in size.

Microsoft's latest cumulative update for Windows 11, KB5044284, is causing installation challenges for some users. This update, the first for the Windows 11 24H2 (2024 Update), was released as a mandatory security patch.

Microsoft observes: “This is a significantly larger update than the regular monthly updates you have been installing up until now. In some cases, it can take a few hours to install, so be patient! You do not need to babysit it, and you can continue to use your computer during most of the installation.”

New core code, convenience features, and eye candy, along with exclusive Copilot+ PC bonuses, grace the 24H2 version of Windows 11.

Aside from app updates and UI changes, Microsoft has said that 24H2 includes significant updates to the compiler, kernel, and scheduler, as well as improved performance and compatibility for the operating system's Arm-to-x86 app translation layer (now called " Prism ").

Here's how to bypass the Microsoft account sign-in requirement and skip the in-box crapware when you install Windows 11.