Microsoft has rolled out an emergency update for Windows 11, identified as KB5070773, on October 20, 2025. This urgent release came just a few days after the October Patch Tuesday updates, which accidentally caused a serious issue in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). The bug made it difficult for many users to use their recovery tools properly when their systems failed to boot.
The main problem was that USB keyboards and mice stopped working inside WinRE. This meant that anyone trying to reset their PC, repair startup problems, or recover their system could not select any options because the input devices were completely unresponsive. Interestingly, these devices continued to work fine once Windows was running normally, which made the issue even more confusing and frustrating.
For users, WinRE is a vital part of Windows that helps recover or repair a system when things go wrong. Without working input devices, people were stuck with no way to navigate recovery menus, restore backups, or fix startup errors. Microsoft recognized how severe this was, as it could prevent both home users and IT professionals from saving affected systems.
Because of the urgency, Microsoft decided not to wait for the next regular monthly update. Instead, it issued KB5070773 as an out-of-band update, which means it was pushed out immediately to all supported devices. The patch successfully restores full USB keyboard and mouse functionality inside the Recovery Environment and ensures that users can safely access the repair options again.
According to Microsoft’s official release information, the issue affected certain systems running Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. After installing KB5070773, users should no longer face any input problems in recovery mode. Microsoft also confirmed that this fix is now part of all updates released after October 20, 2025, to prevent similar bugs in the future.
The company strongly recommends all users check Windows Update and install KB5070773 as soon as possible. If a system fails to boot and can’t install the patch automatically, Microsoft suggests temporary solutions such as using a touchscreen, connecting a PS/2 keyboard, or booting from a USB recovery drive created earlier. These methods can help you reach recovery tools until the update is applied.
After installing the fix, users are advised to test their system by entering the Advanced Recovery options and checking whether the keyboard and mouse work properly. This quick check ensures that your system’s recovery features are ready if you ever face a serious startup issue in the future. It’s a small step that can save a lot of trouble later on.
This emergency update shows how crucial the Windows Recovery Environment is for keeping systems safe and repairable. Microsoft’s fast response prevented what could have been a widespread problem for Windows 11 users. Installing the KB5070773 update not only fixes the issue but also adds an extra layer of protection, making sure recovery tools are always available when they’re needed most.
Stay alert, and keep your security measures updated!
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