Microsoft just dropped its July 2026 Patch Tuesday update, and this single release addresses a staggering 570 security vulnerabilities. To put that in perspective, that’s a 316% increase over July 2025 and nearly three times the update we received just last month.

So, why so many bugs? Is Windows totally broken? It’s actually thanks to the explosion of bad actors using AI to hack into your system, which is why this is one Windows update you won’t want to delay.

How to make sure you get these critical updates

Here’s how to check.

If you’re running Windows 11, you should check whether you’ve received all 570 fixes. To do so, head to Settings > System > About, then scroll to Windows specs and look for your OS build number.

* For Windows 11 25H2: You should be on Build 26200.8875 (via update KB5101650).

* For Windows 11 24H2: You should be on Build 26100.8875 (via update KB5101650).

* For Windows 11 23H2: Your update is KB5099414 (Build 22631.7376).

If your build number doesn’t match, go to Settings > Windows Update and hit ‘Check for updates.’ It’s the age-old IT trick – if you see nothing, try turning your PC off, then on again. If that doesn’t work, run the Windows Update Troubleshooter. Still stuck? Time to bug Microsoft Support, and considering the scale of this update, it’s important that you do.

Not everyone will get this new protection

Bad news for Dell users

This update might not be available for a limited number of Dell devices with Intel processors due to an incompatibility reported by Dell that can potentially cause unexpected shutdowns, poor performance, increased heat, and battery drain. Microsoft is working with Dell to prevent the affected models from experiencing the issue and plans to release a resolution for them in the coming days. So if you don’t see these updates on your computer, and you use a Dell device, that could be why.

Windows protection against AI threats goes one step further

MDASH is Microsoft’s new bet against malicious actors

Microsoft recently announced its own AI system, known as MDASH, to proactively hunt and resolve bugs before attackers can exploit them. MDASH works by having multiple AI agents “debate” to find the root cause of potential issues. While this system is incredibly effective at identifying flaws, the result is that your monthly updates are now massive, containing hundreds of fixes that were found and patched in a fraction of the usual time.

Think of these updates like brushing your teeth—just do it. Still rocking Windows 10 or something older? You’ve got an extra year thanks to Microsoft extending its support, but it won’t stick around forever. Grab any available security patches, and if your device is nearing end of support, consider upgrading or finding other ways to stay safe.