Microsoft issues fix for Windows 11 update that bricked mouse and keyboard controls in recovery environment - here's what you need to know

"After rolling out this month's security update (KB5066835), Windows 11 users reported keyboards, mice and other USB connected devices wouldn't work when in Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). That meant such input devices worked properly during normal operation, but would fail if a user entered recovery mode to reset or repair their laptop - leaving them unable to navigate the settings, "After installing October 2025 security update (KB5066835), USB devices, such as keyboards and mice, do not function in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)," Microsoft noted in a statement. "This issue prevents navigation of any of the recovery options within WinRE. Note that the USB keyboard and mouse continue to work normally within the Windows operating system.""

"A day later, Microsoft released an out-of-band update, fixing the flaw six days later rather than waiting for next month's scheduled patch. That is rolling out via Windows Update for Windows 11 users. The flaw impacts all Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, as well as Windows Server 2025. If you haven't yet run the update, perhaps avoid resetting your PC or going into recovery mode - if possible."

"The WinRE UBS support bug isn't the only issue with the October update. Microsoft has detailed a full list of known issues, including smartcard authentication issues, problems playing protected content with some DVD and BluRay applications, and failed updates using shared network folders. Microsoft also noted that IIS websites may fail to load properly. Similarly, the tech giant warned that smartcard authentication issues might occur owing to a security change introduced for strengthening Windows Cryptographic Services. That latter flaw has been resolved, and all have been mitigate"

Microsoft released an out-of-band fix after the October 2025 security update (KB5066835) caused USB keyboards, mice and other USB devices to stop working in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). USB input continued to function normally within the running Windows operating system but failed inside WinRE, preventing navigation of recovery options. The fix is rolling out via Windows Update and affects Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, plus Windows Server 2025. Microsoft also listed other known October update issues, including smartcard authentication problems, protected media playback errors, failed shared-folder updates, and potential IIS website load failures.

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