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ZDNET’s key takeaways
- A new Microsoft update patches a bug affecting Windows recovery.
- The bug prevented the use of USB mice and keyboards in WinRE.
- The new patch is available through Windows Update.
Microsoft has fixed a serious glitch that affected Windows 11 users who needed to rely on the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) to troubleshoot boot-up issues.
Out-of-band patch
Rolled out on Monday, KB5070773 patches a bug that prevented many people from using USB mice and keyboards in WinRE, essentially rendering it impossible — or at least difficult — to navigate and use. Microsoft itself introduced the flaw a week ago with the Windows October update, affecting Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2, as well as Windows Server 2025.
Also: Your Windows 11 PC has an emergency shutdown feature – here’s where to find it
Most Windows bugs are annoying and frustrating. But this one proved to be serious, forcing Microsoft to push out an out-of-band patch rather than wait for the next monthly update.
WinRE is a recovery tool that will step in if Windows is unable to boot up properly. In some cases, the tool may start automatically and attempt to repair the issue. In other cases, you can manually use it to run certain options, such as a recovery drive or Safe Mode. The goal here is to narrow down the cause of the problem so that you can either repair it or try a recovery option to bring Windows back to life.
Also: Microsoft said my PC can’t run Windows 11, but I upgraded in 5 minutes anyway – here’s how
Prior to the patch, one of the few workarounds was to use a PS/2-style mouse, keyboard, and port. But those have largely gone the way of the dinosaurs. If you’re running Windows 11, it’s unlikely you’d have these types of peripherals and a PC that supports them. That’s why you’ll want to install the new patch ASAP and make sure WinRE is able to work properly if you ever do need it.
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How to update
To update your PC, head to Settings, select Windows Update, and then click the button to check for updates. You should see a cumulative update for Windows designated as KB5070773. If so, allow it to download and install. Reboot your PC, and the Windows Recovery Environment should work as usual, assuming the need ever arises.
Also: Leaving Windows 10 today? How to clear your new Windows 11 PC cache (and start fresh)
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