Microsoft has started putting out update KB5072753, a new emergency out-of-band patch for Windows 11 that corrects a flaw created in November’s KB5068966 upgrade. The fault in question caused Windows Update to repeatedly try to install the same update, even if it had already been installed.
Microsoft states the issue as follows: “After you install the November 2025 Hotpatch update (KB5068966) on Windows 11, version 25H2, Windows Update may download and install the update again.” This has no effect on the functionality. The most recent installation time will only be displayed in the update history.
The press reports that the newer out-of-band update KB5072753 fully replaces update KB5068966, so installing the former makes the latter unnecessary. Microsoft will automatically roll out KB5072753 to all Windows 11 25H2 computers via Windows Update, so users do not need to take any action.
After applying the initial November Hotpatch update (KB5068966), Windows Update inaccurately displayed that the update needed to be installed again, resulting in an unending installation cycle in the update history. The system’s functionality was unaffected; only the update process notification and history.
Microsoft issued an emergency OOB update, KB5072753, to address this particular vulnerability. This new update replaces the faulty KB5068966, thus users who install KB5072753 will not need to install the old one.
The update is being distributed automatically via Windows Update, so most Windows 11 users should not need to take any manual action.
Microsoft has lately released multiple emergency solutions for its operating systems, but many flaws remain to be fixed.