Microsoft has issued an urgent update for Windows 11 to correct a serious issue that disrupted the system recovery process. The company released the emergency patch less than a week after identifying the problem, which left users unable to operate their USB mouse or keyboard while attempting to restore or reset their PCs.
Recovery issue caused by the recent Windows update
The problem first appeared following Microsoft’s monthly Windows 11 update, rolled out on 14 October. The update unintentionally turned off the functionality of USB-connected devices within the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). As a result, users attempting to access recovery options—such as factory resets or troubleshooting tools—were unable to interact with the interface using standard input devices.
For many, the inability to use a mouse or keyboard during recovery meant they could not easily fix system errors or restore their machines to working order. Microsoft recognised the severity of the situation and moved swiftly to develop and release a remedy.
Microsoft’s rapid response and fix details
The company released the out-of-band update, coded KB5070773, on 20 October. This emergency patch restores USB mouse and keyboard support within WinRE for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. The fix was distributed outside Microsoft’s usual Patch Tuesday schedule, reflecting the urgency of the issue.
It is uncommon for Microsoft to push updates outside of its normal release cycle unless a major bug or security flaw demands immediate attention. In this case, the company prioritised user recovery capabilities over its standard update timetable.
A Microsoft spokesperson noted that restoring WinRE functionality was essential, as it forms a critical component of the Windows troubleshooting system. The patch enables users to use USB input devices again for navigating menus, selecting restore points, and performing system resets, all without needing complex workarounds.
A pattern of urgent fixes in 2024
This is not the first time Microsoft has had to issue an emergency Windows 11 patch this year. In June, the company released a similar out-of-band update after the May security patch triggered a separate issue that caused certain PCs to enter recovery mode and fail to start correctly repeatedly.
While Microsoft regularly addresses system bugs through cumulative updates, the recurrence of such urgent patches highlights the challenges of maintaining stability across a vast range of hardware configurations. Each new feature release or security improvement must be thoroughly tested against a wide variety of devices, and even small oversights can lead to widespread inconvenience for users.
For now, Windows 11 users are advised to ensure their systems are fully updated to receive the latest fix. The KB5070773 patch is available via Windows Update, and installing it will restore normal recovery environment functionality for affected systems.
Microsoft has not reported any other major issues linked to the October update, and normal system operations are expected to continue following installation of the emergency patch.
