Microsoft Releases Windows 10 Preview Update KB5046714 with Cloud File and System Activation Fixes

Microsoft has released its November 2024 non-security preview update (KB5046714) for Windows 10 version 22H2, bringing the OS build to 19045.5198. This update addresses several critical issues affecting cloud storage and system functionality.

Notable among the fixes is a solution for Win32 shortcuts not backing up to the cloud properly, and a correction for an issue where dragging and dropping files from cloud provider folders resulted in unwanted file moves instead of copies. The update also resolves a significant problem where Windows failed to activate after motherboard replacements.

Additional improvements include updated profiles for certain mobile operators through the Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA) and a fix for system freezes when using Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) USB printers.

Microsoft has announced that due to reduced operations during the Western holiday season, there won’t be a non-security preview release for December 2024. However, the regular monthly security update will proceed as scheduled, with normal servicing for both security and non-security preview releases resuming in January 2025.

For users planning to install this update, Microsoft emphasizes specific prerequisites based on installation scenarios. Offline OS image servicing requires the installation of the October 13, 2023 SSU (KB5031539) if the July 25, 2023 update or later isn’t present. For WSUS deployment or standalone installation from Microsoft Update Catalog, devices must have the May 11, 2021 update or later, or install the August 10, 2021 SSU (KB5005260).

The update also includes the Windows 10 servicing stack update (KB5046823 – 19045.5071), which improves the system’s update installation component. Microsoft reports no known issues with this update at the time of release.