Introduction
Microsoft has released a new update for Windows 11 that tackles a nagging issue affecting the accuracy of performance monitoring in Task Manager. The update, labeled KB5064081 as part of the May 2024 optional preview release, specifically addresses incorrect and misleading CPU usage metrics that have caused confusion among users and IT administrators alike.
What the KB5064081 Update Fixes
With this latest preview build, Microsoft is fixing a glitch where CPU usage data in Task Manager was either inaccurate or entirely blank. These inconsistencies were first detected by users running Windows 11 version 22H2 and 23H2, leading to concerns over system monitoring and performance diagnostics.
According to Microsoft, this anomaly stemmed from the way Task Manager was polling system metrics, resulting in faulty or missing CPU usage data. The KB5064081 update resolves this issue, ensuring that Task Manager now properly reads and displays real-time CPU performance.
Other Improvements and Fixes in the KB5064081 Update
While the spotlight is on the Task Manager improvement, the update brings several other under-the-hood enhancements:
- Enhanced Windows Defender performance by resolving issues with Defender Application Control (WDAC).
- Improved system reliability when resuming from sleep and hibernation states.
- Fixed login screen bugs where accessibility tools like Narrator and Magnifier would not launch as expected.
- Updated country and region-specific information to reflect local compliance regulations.
How to Install the Windows 11 KB5064081 Optional Update
This update is part of Microsoft’s optional non-security preview for May 2024. That means it’s not installed automatically but can be applied manually through Windows Update:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update.
- Click on Check for updates.
- Look for the KB5064081 update under optional updates.
- Click Download and install.
It’s important to note that since this is a preview build, it is primarily intended for users who want the latest fixes ahead of the official Patch Tuesday rollout in June 2024.
Why This Task Manager Fix Matters
Task Manager is a cornerstone tool for everyday troubleshooting, system monitoring, and performance tuning. Incorrect CPU metrics can lead to:
- Misdiagnosed performance issues when apps appear to use more resources than they actually do.
- Confusion for developers and IT admins relying on Task Manager for real-time diagnostics.
- Potential security concerns when usage data is misleading or not visible.
By restoring accurate CPU usage tracking, Microsoft helps users regain confidence in Windows 11’s diagnostic tools, ensuring more effective system management.
Final Thoughts
The KB5064081 update is a welcome relief for users frustrated by inaccurate CPU usage metrics in Task Manager. Alongside other useful fixes and performance boosts, it continues Microsoft’s effort to polish the Windows 11 experience. If you rely on Task Manager for monitoring system performance or troubleshooting, installing this update is highly recommended.