Windows 10: Can't give focus to open windows from the Taskbar (?KB5005033 problem)

If I have multiple windows open, in the taskbar they are collected together under one icon "File Explorer". No problem. However, since this week's patch Tuesday, I can no longer click on that icon to select one of them from a list and activate it. Windows just flashes up the list of available folders for a quarter of a second, then removes it again. (screenshot 1) Folders are visible/selectable using Alt+Tab, no problem. Right-clicking on the taskbar 'File Explorer' works fine. Other areas of the taskbar are fine. Launching apps from the taskbar is fine. Folders aren't pinned to the taskbar. Same result whether using mouse, trackpad or touchscreen. The problem only exists when the taskbar is positioned at the top or sides of the screen (there is no problem when it is at the bottom, screenshot 2/3). The problem occurs in W10 Home, 21H1 Build 19043.1165 / Feature Experience Pack 120.2212.3530.0 ; There is no problem in 19043.1110. It would seem to be caused by KB5005033 and is reproducable - I installed Installed/removed (via WinUpdate/Macrium restore) this update a couple of times. I also installed it via the .MSU , not WU. Just in case, I also tried this SuperUser / Shell Extension Manager thing, Can't open folders, which are pinned down to the taskbar (Explorer) Hardware is Acer Laptop Swift5 laptop. i5 8250U I have faulted it out to MS. I assume that there's nothing else I can do. Could someone please advise if otherwise. thanks

:)

 

Problem with a combine taskbar icons.

Hello,

In Windows 10, you can personalize the settings of your taskbar. If there are multiple applications opened, same applications will be combined under one taskbar button. If you want to change this setting, we suggest that you follow the steps listed below:

• Press the Start button.
• Click on the Settings app.
• Select Personalization.
• At the left side of your window, click on Taskbar.
• Under Combine taskbar buttons, choose Never.

Kindly update us with the results and if you have further queries, feel free to post back.

 

Problem with a combine taskbar icons.

Thanks for answering.

What you suggested is not the problem I asked for a solution.

For more understandable I've attached a figures below.

I'd like to have it in the right figure(showing the window of program not just a title)

Im sorry for my bad English, thanks in advance

 

Taskbar not working

Hi Frank,

In addition to Sumit Dhiman suggestion I suggest you to follow the link below and follow the troubleshooting steps

suggested.

Troubleshoot problems opening the Start menu or Cortana

The troubleshooting steps suggested in the link above applies to Taskbar too.

Do let us know if you are able to use Taskbar. Thank you.