ExplorerPatcher update removes 24H2 upgrade block and fixes key features in Windows 11

ExplorerPatcher just got a major update, and Windows 11 power users are quite happy about it. The latest release adds full support for Windows 11 24H2, a version that previously blocked customization tools like ExplorerPatcher.

That upgrade block has now been bypassed thanks to a tweak in how the app handles the Desktop Window Manager. Specifically, the developer renamed ep_dwm.exe to ep_dwm_svc.exe, which avoids the compatibility check that caused problems.

Microsoft started blocking apps like ExplorerPatcher in April 2024, during Insider testing. The block stayed even after 24H2 rolled out to everyone.

This update also disables rounded corners. Windows 11’s soft edges aren’t for everyone, and ExplorerPatcher gave users a way to go back to sharper corners. In 24H2, this feature had broken—turning it on would simply uncheck itself. That’s now fixed.

The second big fix is for the app’s Simple Window Switcher (SWS), a streamlined alternative to Windows’ built-in Alt-Tab interface. SWS didn’t break entirely under 24H2, but it suffered from slowdowns, lag, and weird behavior. Spotted by Neowin, Github user 03juan reported high CPU usage and even getting stuck in infinite loops.

According to the developer, underlying code issues caused most of these bugs. Microsoft itself hinted at similar problems in recent engineering posts, noting that deep system hooks can create instability when system components change.

Moreover, you can download the ExplorerPatcher’s latest version, 22631.5335.68, from its official GitHub repo here. You can also check the full changelog here.