Windows 11 preview build makes it easier to learn why your computer crashes
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Windows 11 Preview Build 25276 is currently available for download through the Windows Insider Program. The big draw is a new diagnostic tool that helps with troubleshooting. Also included in Microsoft’s latest package are some design tweaks and several bug fixes.
The new tool allows users to create a live kernel memory dump (opens in new tab) (LKD) of their system to help diagnose problems. A memory dump, also known as a core dump, is a recording of your computer’s memory at a point in time, usually when the operating system or an app is having performance issues. Microsoft states that you can get an overview of those issues in real time without Windows 11 running normally. The goal is to accelerate troubleshooting of high-impact failures and hangs.
The LKD tool has its home in Task Manager under the Details section. Right click on the system process and there will be an entry that says “Create live kernel memory dump file” in the context menu. You can also configure the tool to capture Hypervisor pages or abort the process if there is not enough memory.
It is important to point out that not everyone gets this position. Microsoft says it will see a limited release for Insider Program members so it can monitor feedback. And based on that feedback, the company will decide whether or not the LKD tool will go to everyone.
Additional features
As for the design tweaks, they’re nothing major. The Settings app now includes “Outlook Attachment Information” as part of the new visuals introduced in November for Microsoft 365 subscriptions. And the Network Troubleshooter is being replaced by the more “modern” Get Help app to help you get “specific recommendations” for solutions.
The fixes cover a wide range of native Windows 11 features. To name a few, users can expect a search layout fix for text in right-to-left languages such as Arabic, Speech Access works correctly with the Calculator app, and the File Explorer should no longer crash on loading recent files. Microsoft is currently investigating other known issues, including reports from Insider Program members experiencing system freezes after downloading new builds.
But one of the more interesting aspects of Build 25276 is what’s not officially shown. Users over the Internet (opens in new tab) have discovered Microsoft’s plans to retire the Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool (MSDT) within the next two years. This is probably for the best, as MSDT has surfaced several zero-day vulnerabilities in recent years, with Microsoft working hard to fix them. The last fix took place in August 2022 when the company patched the DogWalk security flaw on MSDT, more than two years after it was first discovered.
At first glance, it appears that the company is no longer interested in supporting MSDT and is preparing to move on. At the moment it is unknown what the future replacement will be – assuming there will be one.
Also included in the build are preview versions for both Apple Music and Apple TV on Windows 11, though they’re missing some key features. Make sure you check out TechRadar’s coverage of these beta apps.