Key points
- The November update adds a customizable right-click menu to Windows 11 File Explorer.
Microsoft has released its November Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11, introducing a long-requested feature that allows users to customize the right-click menu in File Explorer.reported
Evidence: reported
New Windows 11 update fixes File Explorer menu mess – and patches an exploited flawaifleet-zdnet
The evidence
According to ZDNet, the new update enables users to add and remove specific commands and apps from the context-sensitive right-click menu, ensuring only their preferred options appear.reported Users can verify the installation by checking Windows Update settings for the label “2026-11 Security Update (KB5132061) (26300.9974)”.reported
Evidence: reported
New Windows 11 update fixes File Explorer menu mess – and patches an exploited flawaifleet-zdnet
Evidence: reported
New Windows 11 update fixes File Explorer menu mess – and patches an exploited flawaifleet-zdnet
The decision
The update fully supports only Windows 11 25H2 and 26H2 editions.reported Enterprise and Education editions of 24H2 will continue to receive monthly security updates, but 23H2 Enterprise and Education will receive no more updates after this month.reported
Evidence: reported
New Windows 11 update fixes File Explorer menu mess – and patches an exploited flawaifleet-zdnet
Evidence: reported
New Windows 11 update fixes File Explorer menu mess – and patches an exploited flawaifleet-zdnet
What to make of it
Microsoft aims to reduce the clutter and confusion previously caused by the growing list of commands in the right-click menu as more apps are installed. The previous modern menu design could become crowded, forcing users to revert to the older classic menu, which often resulted in a disjointed experience with two separate menu versions. The new customization feature addresses this by allowing users to curate their interface, though it requires upgrading to supported versions to access.
In practice
Users should check their Windows Update settings to ensure the November security update is installed, rebooting if necessary. Those on Enterprise or Education editions should note the differing support timelines for 23H2 and 24H2.
Why it matters
- The update patches 1,094 security flaws, including an exploited vulnerability.
- Windows 11 Home and Pro users must upgrade to 26H2 to continue receiving support.
- A new Cloud rebuild feature allows recovery if Windows fails to load.
- The update is mandatory and will automatically download and install on PCs.
Topics: Windows 11, Microsoft, File Explorer, Security Update, UI Customisation
Updated
Then / now / next
Windows 11 users struggled with cluttered right-click menus that grew longer as more apps were installed.
The November update allows customisation of the right-click menu, letting users add or remove commands.
Users on unsupported Windows 11 editions must upgrade to 26H2 to receive future security updates.
Story timeline
- Then Windows 11 users struggled with cluttered right-click menus that grew longer as more apps were installed.
- 10 Nov 2026 New Windows 11 update fixes File Explorer menu mess – and patches an exploited flaw
- Now The November update allows customisation of the right-click menu, letting users add or remove commands.
- Next Users on unsupported Windows 11 editions must upgrade to 26H2 to receive future security updates.
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Which Windows 11 versions support the new right-click menu customisation?
Only Windows 11 25H2 and 26H2 editions fully support the new update and features.
How do I check if the November update is installed?
Go to Settings, select Windows Update, and look for “2026-11 Security Update (KB5132061)”.
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- The November update adds a customizable right-click menu to Windows 11 File Explorer.