The Windows 7 system is no longer supported since last month. That is to say that it should theoretically have received its latest updates on January 15, 2020. A bug created by the installation of the latest patches forces Microsoft to offer a new update for all users.
We discussed this problem at the end of January. Some users had indeed noticed that the image chosen as desktop wallpaper was replaced by a black screen after installing monthly security updates. The editor had finally acknowledged the existence of the bug and explained that it occurred when the "Stretch" option was selected in the background image customization settings.
Microsoft had indicated that it would exceptionally offer a new update for all users, and not just for professional users who can access a paid support extension. This is now done with patch KB4539602 which is released via Windows Update. To install two other previous updates must be in place specifies the support document, which is the case if the machine is updated automatically on a regular basis.
This exceptional update may not be the last. Another bug, mentioned on the Mspoweruser site, appeared according to some users. It prevents closing the system by indicating an error message. For the moment Microsoft has not officially mentioned the subject and users are exchanging tips for getting around the bug, for example by creating another administrator account, which seems to unblock the situation on the usual account.
As a reminder, it is always possible to update a Windows 7 system to Windows 10 free of charge. Microsoft had put an end to this possibility one year after the arrival of its new system but seems to leave this possibility open to avoid using a system potentially dangerous since the security vulnerabilities will no longer be filled.
