- The April update of Windows 11 24h2 has created a mysterious empty file
- Some have advised that could be deleted, but this is not in fact the case
- If you delete the ‘Inetpub’ folder, a security correction applied by the April patch will not work, so you must restore it if you delete the folder
Users of Windows 11 24H2 which were confused by a mysterious empty file appearing on their system reader after applying the last update for the operating system must be aware that this is not a bug, but an intentional decision – and this file should not be deleted.
In case you have missed him last week Windows 11 24:2:2 AM received his cumulative update for April 2025, and he created an “InetPub” file which was the source of a little perplexed or embarrassment for those who noticed it.
You may also remember that some people have advised that it was good to delete the file, and not an unreasonable conclusion to reach the fact that it was empty, seemed to do nothing and was linked to the web server software (IIS) of Microsoft (and appeared to those who had not been installed IIS).
However, at the time, I advised to have deleted it at your own risk and that it might be better to leave alone – because it was empty and seemed harmless (and also because you never know what’s going on with Windows). It seems that I was right, because Microsoft has now warned against the withdrawal of the file, as indicated at the start.
Microsoft told Windows last that the folder is created as part of a security correction for vulnerability which “can allow local attackers to deceive the system of access or modification of files or involuntary files”.
In his opinion of this security fix, Microsoft Note: “After having installed the updates listed in the table of security updates for your operating system, a new [inetpub folder] will be created on your [system drive]. This file should not be deleted, that internet information services (IIS) are active on the target device. This behavior is part of the changes that increase protection and do not require any action by IT administrators and end users. »»
In short, it doesn’t matter whether you are using iis or not, you have to leave this folder alone. Without the present file, the mentioned security hole will remain present in Windows 11, offering attackers a potential opportunity to compromise your PC (at least if they are local to the device, which means they have physical access).
Analysis: What if I have already deleted the file?
It is a strange affair, and I supposed that it was a bug when I wrote last week, because it seemed to be a strange way to implement a security correction. Of course, what Microsoft should have done is very clear in the version notes for this correction that he creates the folder and that users must leave it alone (while noting that it is empty and harmless).
As I have already observed, however, it is preferable to be cautious during DIY with windows. What is particularly strange in this case is that there are reports in the past of this same file created, so it was perhaps part of the implementation of security corrections in these cases – who knows.
What if you have already deleted the file? Well, in this case, you must reintegrate it and Windows recently has at hand with the solution. You have to open the Control panelSo enter Programs> Programs and features. On the left, you will see an option at ‘Light or deactivate Windows ‘features’ – Click on it. Scroll the alphabetical list of features and find ‘Internet information services‘and check the box next to this, then click on the ALL RIGHT button.
The file will now be recreated. If you deleted it last week, be sure to finish these steps.
