Windows 11 KB5070773: Emergency Update Fixes Broken Recovery Mode

Friday, October 24, 2025

Windows 11 KB5070773: Emergency Update Fixes Broken Recovery Mode

Microsoft has released an out-of-band (OOB) cumulative update, KB5070773, to address a critical issue from October’s Patch Tuesday (KB5066835) that broke the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) on some systems. The bug disabled USB input devices (keyboards and mice) inside recovery mode, preventing users from navigating recovery options.

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What went wrong

  • Impacted builds: Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2.
  • Symptom: USB keyboards and mice stopped working inside WinRE, but worked normally after boot.
  • Effect: Users couldn’t select recovery options, rendering WinRE effectively unusable.

What KB5070773 fixes

  • Restores USB input: Re-enables keyboards and mice within WinRE.
  • Cumulative improvements: Includes the latest security and performance fixes.
  • Stability: Ensures recovery tools can be accessed and used reliably.

Who needs this update

  • Applies to: Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2.
  • Delivery: Automatic via Windows Update; manual installers available in the Microsoft Update Catalog.
  • Recommendation: Install promptly if you rely on WinRE for troubleshooting or recovery.

Why it matters

The Windows Recovery Environment is a safety net for repairing startup issues and restoring backups. With USB input disabled, many users were locked out of essential recovery tools. KB5070773 restores functionality without waiting for the next scheduled update cycle.

Final takeaway

KB5070773 is an urgent fix that restores USB input in WinRE for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2. Install it to regain reliable access to recovery tools and get the latest cumulative security updates.