- Microsoft releases Windows 11 build 25206 on the Dev Channel.
- The update brings improvements to SMB and enables the new Open With dialog for everyone.
- It also adds DRR support for external monitors.
Microsoft is now rolling out the Windows 11 build 25206 for devices enrolled in the Dev Channel of the Windows Insider Program. This update doesn’t include new features but delivers several fixes, improvements, and changes for existing features.
Build 25206 for Windows 11, according to the announcement, brings changes to the rate limiter behavior for SMB authentication, Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR) support comes to external displays, the new “Open With” dialog box is now available broadly, and more.
Although the official ISO file isn’t available, you can still download the latest image for build 25206 using the UUP Dump tool.
Windows 11 build 25206
Here are all the new features and improvements for the latest release of Windows 11 in the Dev Channel:
SMB authentication
The SMB authentication rate limiter implements a (2000ms) delay by default between each failed NTLM authentication, which adds an additional protection mechanism to the SMB server service. The delay should significantly slow down the number of attempts from an attacker, making a Windows client an unattractive target either when in a workgroup or for its local accounts when joined to a domain.
Open With dialog interface
The new “Open with” dialog box returns in this flight for everyone with a new interface that aligns with the new design language. Microsoft has also simplified the experience by making it possible to update your default app with just one click.
File Explorer
File Explorer Home will show recent file activity for cloud files in Details View.
Graphics
On build 25206, Windows 11 includes support for Dynamic Refresh Rate to external monitors. However, it only works with displays that feature 120 or more Hz with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). You also need to have the WDDM 3.1 driver installed. You can use these instructions to enable DRR.
In addition, as part of the input changes, Microsoft rolled out a change to support the use of clipboard history (Windows key + V) on password fields.
Build 25206 fixes
As part of the fixes and changes, this flight includes various fixes for File Explorer, Taskbar, and Settings.
Settings
Fixed a Settings crash which could happen when searching and selecting certain Narrator related settings.
Search
- Fixed a high hitting search crash which was impacting some Insiders in the last few flights.
Other fixes
The Windows Sandbox window should now resize correctly if you snap it to the side of the screen.
Fixed an issue which could lead to a memory leak in Windows Error Reporting after certain crashes.
If focus is on the desktop, then pressing ALT + F4 and Enter should now shutdown your PC, rather than having to move keyboard focus first (as was needed in the last few flights).
The computer icon is now showing again in the Shut Down Windows dialog.
OneDrive setup should no longer unexpectedly ask for permission to set up every time your PC reboots.
Fixed a high hitting explorer.exe crash which was impacting some Insiders.
In this release, there are also a bunch of known issues with File Explorer, Widgets, printing, and more.
Furthermore, Microsoft also pushes updates for Camera and Microsoft Store apps. The update for the Camera app understands the state of the privacy shutter on supported hardware. For example, If the shutter is blocking the view or the laptop lid is closed, the Camera app will notify you and offer guidance.
The update for the Microsoft Store app brings the ability to view screenshots in search results to help improve your browsing experience, and it’s now possible to install games directly from the Store.
Install build 25206
If you want to download and install the Windows 11 build 25206, enroll your device in the Dev Channel using the “Windows Insider Program” settings from the “Update & Security” section.
Once you enroll the computer in the program, you can download build 25206 from the “Windows Update” settings by clicking the Check for Updates button. However, you will need a device that meets the minimum system requirements to receive the update if you are new to the Windows Insider Program.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].