Microsoft released an emergency fix on October 20, 2025, after its October 14 security update disrupted USB keyboard and mouse input in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) on Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. The problem affected recovery tools, not normal use of USB devices inside a running Windows session. The fix is historical, not a new October 2026 update.
What the Windows 11 recovery problem affected
Microsoft reported that update KB5066835, released October 14, 2025, was followed by a WinRE issue on Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2. USB devices such as keyboards and mice would not work in the recovery environment, making it difficult or impossible to navigate recovery options with those devices. Microsoft said USB devices continued to function normally in the running Windows operating system. Microsoft’s KB5070773 release notes document the incident.
Which updates fixed the issue
Microsoft released two updates on October 20, 2025. KB5070773 was an out-of-band cumulative update that included the October 14 security update and corrected the WinRE USB issue. The companion Safe OS Dynamic Update, KB5070762, also addressed the issue and improved WinRE for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 and Windows Server 2025. Microsoft’s KB5070762 page lists its applicable systems and installation details.
How KB5070762 was distributed
Microsoft listed three distribution channels for the Safe OS update. The page said Windows Update would download and install it automatically, while the Microsoft Update Catalog offered a standalone package. WSUS was also listed for centrally managed deployments. Microsoft did not designate one channel as universally preferable.
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- Windows Update: Microsoft said the update would download and install automatically.
- Microsoft Update Catalog: Obtain the standalone package when that deployment method is needed.
- WSUS: Use the channel for centrally managed update distribution.
Microsoft stated that KB5070762 had no prerequisites and did not require a restart after application. It also said the update could not be removed once applied to a Windows image.
How to verify the WinRE update
After installing KB5070762, Microsoft identifies WinRE version 10.0.26100.6901 as the expected version. Its support page provides verification approaches using PowerShell, the WinREAgent event, and DISM. Use the method appropriate to your administration workflow and compare the installed WinRE version with the value Microsoft specifies.
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What to do if USB input fails in recovery
If a keyboard or mouse works in Windows but not in WinRE on an affected installation, the documented problem points to the recovery environment rather than a failed peripheral. Microsoft’s remedy was the Windows updates above; replacing the keyboard or mouse is not the fix identified in its notice. Microsoft’s pages do not establish how many devices were affected or whether any cases persisted by October 2026.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Separate support-lifecycle note for Windows 11 24H2
In a separate matter, Microsoft’s September 8, 2026 update notes say Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions reach end of updates on October 13, 2026, while Enterprise and Education editions remain supported until October 12, 2027. These lifecycle dates are unrelated to the October 2025 WinRE USB incident. Microsoft’s September 2026 update notes provide that support information.
Quick Recap
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