Microsoft has initiated the rollout of an out-of-band update for Windows 11, addressing a significant issue that emerged from its recent monthly update. The original release on October 14 inadvertently disrupted the functionality of the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE), rendering users unable to utilize USB mice or keyboards for essential recovery tasks or factory resets.
The inability to access a functional recovery environment is a critical concern for users, prompting Microsoft to act swiftly. Within a week, the company released update KB5070773, which restores the USB mouse and keyboard functionality in WinRE for the latest 24H2 and 25H2 versions of Windows 11.
It is relatively uncommon for Microsoft to issue out-of-band updates unless there is an urgent need for a security fix. However, this situation echoes a similar incident from June, when an emergency patch was required after the May security update caused certain PCs to enter the recovery environment and fail to boot properly.
Update Details
- Update Version: KB5070773
- Release Date: October 20, 2025
- Impact: Restores USB functionality in WinRE
- Versions Affected: Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2
This proactive approach by Microsoft underscores the company’s commitment to ensuring a seamless user experience, particularly in critical recovery scenarios. As technology continues to evolve, the importance of responsive updates cannot be overstated, especially in maintaining user trust and satisfaction.
