Home windows 11’s October replace breaks keyboard and mice, Microsoft warns
Anybody who has put in the newest October replace for Home windows 11 must be cautious: Microsoft confirms that issues with USB keyboards and mice could happen after putting in replace KB5066835.
Keyboard and mice fail in restoration mode
After putting in the newest October replace, you might discover that USB enter gadgets refuse to work within the Home windows Restoration Setting (WinRE). Which means should you enter restoration mode—for instance, to restore Home windows or reset your PC—you’ll not be capable of choose any choices, both with the keyboard or the mouse. (In regular Home windows 11 operation, nevertheless, all the pieces works as regular.)
In accordance with Microsoft, the error happens on all present consumer and server variations, together with Home windows 11 model 24H2, Home windows 11 model 25H2, and Home windows Server 2025. That is notably annoying as a result of virtually all trendy PCs depend on USB gadgets. Previous PS/2 ports have turn into uncommon, and Bluetooth mice often don’t work in restoration mode both.
Microsoft is engaged on a repair
Microsoft has formally confirmed the bug:
“After putting in the Home windows safety replace launched on October 14, 2025 (KB5066835), USB gadgets, akin to keyboards and mice, don’t operate within the Home windows Restoration Setting (WinRE). This difficulty prevents navigation of any of the restoration choices inside WinRE. Be aware that the USB keyboard and mouse proceed to work usually throughout the Home windows working system.”
The corporate is investigating the trigger and plans to launch an answer “within the coming days.” Restoration updates already supplied (KB5067039 and KB5067019) don’t but repair the issue.
What it’s best to do now
You probably have already put in KB5066835, it’s greatest to keep away from restoration mode in the intervening time. You probably have not but put in the replace, you may wait till Microsoft has launched the patch.
In case your PC is at the moment operating easily, there isn’t any pressing want for motion—however you have to be conscious of the issue in case it’s essential use the restoration surroundings sooner or later.
And if you wish to flip your again on Home windows, it’s best to learn our articles on switching from Home windows to Linux and switching from Home windows laptops to Chromebooks.
