The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Microsoft fixed a Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) problem that stopped USB keyboards and mice from working after the October 14, 2025 security update. The fault affected Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, and Microsoft also lists Windows Server 2025 as affected. Microsoft released the fix, KB5070773, on October 20, 2025; later updates include it. If your PC still starts, install the latest update available for your Windows version rather than seeking out an old standalone package.
What the Windows 11 recovery problem affected
The issue followed Windows security update KB5066835, released October 14, 2025. Microsoft said that USB devices, including keyboards and mice, did not function in WinRE. The devices continued to work normally in Windows itself, so this was not a general hardware failure. Microsoft’s release-health record identifies Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 as affected; it also lists Windows Server 2025. Microsoft’s KB5070773 release page and Windows release-health record document the fix and affected releases.
WinRE is Windows’ built-in troubleshooting environment. It can appear after repeated startup failures or be opened through recovery options. Its tools include Startup Repair, Reset this PC, Startup Settings, Command Prompt, Uninstall Updates, and System Image Recovery. When USB input failed there, users could be unable to navigate those tools even though the keyboard and mouse worked after Windows loaded.
How to install Microsoft’s fix
If Windows starts
- Open Settings > Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates and install the latest update offered for your Windows version.
- Restart the PC if prompted.
KB5070773 was the out-of-band fix released October 20, 2025, and Microsoft made it available through Windows Update and the Microsoft Update Catalog. Updates released after KB5070773 include the resolution, so the relevant action now is to install the latest available update for your version, not to install an obsolete package simply because it carries the historical fix number. See Microsoft’s KB5070773 notes.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute#1 Best Overall
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If Windows will not boot far enough to update
Microsoft’s workarounds depended on the hardware or recovery setup available. They are not universal fixes:
- Touchscreen PC: Use the touchscreen’s touch keyboard, if available, to interact with WinRE.
- PC with a PS/2 port: Connect a PS/2 keyboard or mouse if the computer supports one.
- Previously created USB recovery drive: Boot from a recovery drive made before the problem occurred.
- Managed or OEM deployment: An organization may be able to use Configuration Manager PXE or push-button reset deployment with the Windows ADK and WinPE add-on.
These options come from Microsoft’s release-health guidance. If none applies, consult the PC manufacturer or your organization’s IT administrator for a supported recovery route.
Rank #2
- Durable and Reliable: This USB keyboard features a curved space bar, spill-resistant design (2), durable keys that can withstand 10 million keystrokes, and sturdy, adjustable tilt legs
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- Simple Set-Up: Simply plug the keyboard and mouse into the USB ports on your desktop, laptop, or netbook and you're ready to work; compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
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Take care before choosing a recovery option
Recovery tools can affect files and access to the device. Microsoft says Reset this PC can either keep or remove personal files, depending on the option selected. Reinstalling Windows from installation media can remove everything, depending on the route. Some tools on BitLocker-protected devices may require the BitLocker recovery key. Read the choice shown on screen and make sure you understand its effect before proceeding. Microsoft explains the available routes in its Windows Recovery Environment overview and Windows recovery options guide.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Prepare for a future recovery
While the PC is working, Microsoft recommends creating a Windows recovery drive and keeping the BitLocker recovery key somewhere accessible. A recovery drive requires a USB drive, but buying one does not fix the historical KB5066835 issue; it is preparation for a future recovery need. Microsoft also notes that a manufacturer’s recovery image may include hardware-specific drivers and factory applications that generic Microsoft installation media may not contain. See Microsoft’s instructions for creating a recovery drive.
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Best Value
- 【Ergonomic Wireless Keyboard Mouse 】: Wireless ergonomic keyboard is equipped with adjustable height tilt legs to increase comfort and prevent your wrists injury when typing for a long time. The full size wireless keyboard with numeric keypad and 12 multimedia shortcut keys, such as play/ pause, volume increase and decrease, and email, to help you improve work efficiency
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Rank #4
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- 【Sleep Mode Extends Battery Life】 Idle for 6 mins, the keyboard will sleep, idle for 15 mins, the mouse will sleep, by typing or double clicking any keys to wake. Saving you the trouble of changing batteries frequently. The keyboard needs 2 x AAA batteries, the mouse needs 1 x AA / 1 x AAA battery (𝐁𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐝).
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Rank #3
- Dependable wireless connection: Enjoy the reliability and convenience of 2.4 GHz connectivity with your logitech wireless keyboard and mouse combo, wireless range up to 10 meters away at home, or work.
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- Long-lasting Battery: The MK345 combo offers a full size keyboard battery life of up to 3 years and a mouse battery life of 18 months (1); batteries included
- Comfortable Right-handed Mouse: This wireless USB mouse with dongle works well for this wireless mouse and keyboard combo, featuring a contoured shape for all-day comfort and smooth, precise tracking and scrolling for easier navigation.
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