Technology Advisor Blog

But wait - there's more!  While we had a blog discussing Windows shortcuts to boost your productivity throughout the week, we also want to inform you of what’s to come for January 2026 updates regarding Windows 11. To provide an understanding of what’s coming your way, what you can expect for patch security updates, AI powered Copilot, PC features to devices, and more. Our intentions here at Ekaru are to provide our clients, and those searching for their next MSP, with the most up-to-date knowledge on all things cybersecurity and windows applications to ensure you are proactive and aware in the world of cybersecurity.

The start of a new year is always a critical time for IT environments. Employees are returning from holiday break, and systems that may have been lightly used in December are suddenly back under full operational demand. For post holidays, January 2026 marks the return of Microsoft’s regular updates, and with it, a mix of security patches, quality improvements, and behind-the-scenes changes that can impact productivity if not handled correctly.

Where We Currently Are with Windows 11 Updates

Microsoft tends to use January as a fresh start in ways to address vulnerabilities that were discovered late in the previous year. With this they continue rolling out incremental improvements that support long-term performance for businesses and your devices (great way of social listening for its users/businesses!).

Takeaways for January 2026 on Windows 11 Include:

• Security patching and vulnerability remediation, usually occurs on Tuesdays.
• Quality-of-life improvements to the Windows 11 interface.
• Continued expansion of AI-powered features such as Copilot across devices.

Tuesdays Are a Big Deal For Windows Patching

The most significant update Windows 11 users will see in January arrives on Patch Tuesday (which is also known as ‘B’ release updates), Microsoft’s monthly security update release. These updates are cumulative, fixing previous issues all while ensuring your systems remain protected against evolving threats from cybercriminals.

From a user perspective coming in to work after Patch Tuesday, updates often appear as a required system restart prompt, which understandably this gets frustrating having occurred weekly. You’re not alone (we must do this as well). While the system asks for restart, you may also notice minor visual or performance changes after logging in.  Ekaru team tests patches behind the scenes, before they are released to our community.  This is to mitigate any other bugs that might inadvertently be introduced along with the patch.

Behind the scenes, however, these updates address serious security risks that could otherwise leave devices exposed.

What Patch Tuesday Typically Includes:

• Improvements to system stability and crash prevention.
• Security updates for core services such as networking, authentication, and file handling.
• Reliability improvements for enterprise features like virtualization and remote access.

While many users see Patch Tuesday as another update that could sometimes halt operations, its essential in protecting you against ransomware, credential theft, and system compromise.

File Explorer Updating on Windows 11

Windows 11’s File Explorer has been steadily evolving with subtle but impactful refinements. These changes may not be clear right away, but their intent is to improve day-to-day usability for knowledge workers.

What Improvements You Can Expect:

• Better organization and visibility of recently used or recommended files.
• Improved visual consistency when using dark mode, no more random white flashes when opening a new tab or page.
• Reduced lag when opening large directories or network locations.

These enhancements are part of Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to modernize Windows, though sometimes there are learning curves their intent is to not have you entirely relearn the systems applications.

Taskbar, Productivity, and Copilot Enhancements

Microsoft continues to implement AI in their devices for productivity and operations. Heading into the new year, this approach remains just as evident. While no massive Copilot overhaul is expected this month, users may notice gradual expansions in how Copilot integrates with the Windows experience.

These updates may include:

• New or expanded Copilot icons and shortcuts
• Deeper integration with system actions such as sharing content
• Incremental improvements to response quality and context awareness

At the same time, Microsoft is giving organizations more control over AI features for managed environments. While not every organization is ready for AI-driven workflows due to resources or even personal values, unmanaged rollouts can lead to confusion or even compliance concerns.

Accessibility and Inclusive Design Improvements

Windows 11 continues to make steady progress with its accessibility. In the late months of 2025, users complained about some of the visuals while using dark mode that made the experience inconsistent. January 2026 builds on this by refining features designed to support users with visual, auditory, or mobility challenges.

Expected improvements include:

• Enhanced screen reader functionality
• Better descriptive content for images and system elements
• Improved keyboard navigation and focus indicators
• More consistent accessibility behavior across applications

While these changes are incremental, they have a significant impact on users who rely on assistive technologies, and they reinforce Microsoft’s long-term commitment to inclusive computing.

Security Remains the Top Priority

Security is the driving force behind nearly every January update, and 2026 is no exception. In addition to vulnerability patches, Microsoft continues laying the groundwork for upcoming security requirements that organizations need to be aware of.

Key security-related themes this month include:

• Continued credential and authentication hardening
• Network improvements
• Preparatory updates tied to future security certificate changes

While many of these updates don’t require immediate action from users, failing to apply them consistently can create long-term risks, especially in regulated industries.  It is always recommended to reboot your systems weekly to apply pending patches. 

Ekaru Helping Clients Stay Productive and In Control

At Ekaru, we thrive off providing users reaching out for help with clear communication and understanding of Windows services and their updates. By providing users with summaries explaining what’s changing, the differences between security-critical and cosmetic updates, and expectations around restarting your devices and its downtime.

Security and Compliance Oversight

Ekaru actively helps users stay on top of cybersecurity trends and threats to remain proactive. We provide users with services such as:

• Monitoring any unusual activity across your devices and staying on top of patch compliance.
• Flagging systems that fall behind on updates may be vulnerable to phishing attempts.
• Updating practices with industry regulations and best cybersecurity hygiene practices.

Bottom Line

January 2026 may not bring a dramatic new version of Windows 11, but it plays a vital role in setting the foundation for a secure, stable, and productive year ahead. The updates released this month reinforce Microsoft’s focus on security, usability, and AI-driven productivity. For businesses, the real challenge isn’t the updates themselves, it’s understanding them, deploying them correctly, and ensuring users remain productive. By combining proactive patch management, clear communication, and strategic guidance, we help ensure Windows 11 updates work for you and not against you.

If you’re a business looking to have a better understanding of your cybersecurity needs, budgeting and overall Microsoft 365 application expertise, look no further. Let’s connect!