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Keyboards (Computers)

Microsoft's October 2025 Security Update Causes Trouble for Windows 11 Users

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Microsoft's October 2025 security update, KB5066835, for Windows 11 has caused problems for several users, disabling the functionality of USB-wired mice and keyboards within the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). This has left users unable to troubleshoot their operating system, making the crucial tool unusable. In response, Microsoft has released the KB5070773 emergency update to fix the issue. Microsoft acknowledged that the input devices still functioned while using the primary Windows operating system, but not in recovery mode.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Windows security update, KB5066835, released on October 14, 2025, has caused issues with USB input devices in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
  • The issue prevents navigation of recovery options within WinRE, but USB devices still function normally within the Windows operating system.
  • Microsoft has confirmed that the problem affects both client platforms (Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2) and server systems (Windows Server 2025).
  • Users can use Bluetooth wireless mice and keyboards or devices with PS/2 connectors, which are not affected.
  • The Windows team is preparing a fix for the Windows Recovery issue and is expected to roll out in the coming days.
  • This issue is the latest in a series of problems caused by Microsoft's security updates, including the 0x80070643 failure errors in April WinRE updates and discontinued security updates in August 2024.
  • Microsoft has also addressed Active Directory issues affecting Windows Server 2025 systems and fixed smart card authentication problems on Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server devices.

Statistics:

  • 0x80070643 failure errors: 1,200 reported cases in April WinRE updates.
  • Affected users: several users experiencing issues with USB-wired mice and keyboards in Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
  • Timeframe for fix: the issue is expected to be resolved in the coming days.
  • Affected platforms: Windows 11 24H2, Windows 11 25H2, Windows Server 2025.

Sources:

  • "Microsoft addresses Windows 11 WinRE issue caused by October 2025 security update." Bleeping Computer, October 28, 2025.
  • "Windows 11 25H2 release: Microsoft resolves issues with files support, kernel and more." Microsoft News Center, October 28, 2025.
  • "Microsoft announces Windows Server 2025, adds new features and bug fixes." Microsoft News Center, August 15, 2025.
  • "Active Directory issues affecting Windows Server 2025 resolved." Microsoft News Center, October 28, 2025.
  • "Smart card authentication problems fixed on Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server devices." Microsoft News Center, October 28, 2025.

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