check before: 2025-11-20
Product:
Windows
Platform:
Online, Windows Desktop, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
Admin impact
Links:
Details:
Microsoft has identified an issue affecting some organizations using hotpatch updates on devices running Windows 11 Enterprise, version 25H2. After installing the hotpatch update KB5068966 released November 11, 2025, affected devices repeatedly download and install the same update when a Windows Update scan is run. This behavior does not impact device functionality; only the update history will reflect the latest installation timestamp.
An out-of-band (OOB) update was released today, November 20, 2025, to address this issue. This is a cumulative update, so you do not need to apply any previous updates before installing this update, as it supersedes all previous updates for affected versions.
If you have not yet deployed the November 2025 hotpatch update (KB5068966) on Windows 11, version 25H2 devices in your environment, we recommend you apply this OOB update (KB5072753) instead.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2025-11-21
updated:
2025-11-21
Task Type
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Docu to Check
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MS Preperations
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MS Urgency
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MS workload name
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summary for non-techies**
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Direct effects for Operations**
Repeated Update Installations
Without proper preparation, users may experience repeated installations of the same update, leading to confusion and potential frustration as the update history reflects multiple installations.
- roles: IT Administrators, End Users
- references: https://support.microsoft.com/help/5072753, https://support.microsoft.com/topic/november-11-2025-hotpatch-kb5068966-os-builds-26200-7092-and-26100-7092-d702b84c-d238-40f4-a0b7-1861e0b056fd
User Experience Degradation
If the out-of-band update is not communicated effectively, users may face degraded experience due to uncertainty about the update status and potential system behavior, impacting their productivity.
- roles: IT Support Staff, End Users
- references: https://support.microsoft.com/help/5072753, https://support.microsoft.com/topic/november-11-2025-hotpatch-kb5068966-os-builds-26200-7092-and-26100-7092-d702b84c-d238-40f4-a0b7-1861e0b056fd
Increased Support Tickets
Failure to prepare for the OOB update may lead to an increase in support tickets from users experiencing issues related to the update process, straining IT resources.
- roles: Help Desk Technicians, IT Administrators
- references: https://support.microsoft.com/help/5072753, https://support.microsoft.com/topic/november-11-2025-hotpatch-kb5068966-os-builds-26200-7092-and-26100-7092-d702b84c-d238-40f4-a0b7-1861e0b056fd
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
Streamlined Update Management
Implement a centralized update management system to track and manage Windows updates, including hotpatches and out-of-band updates. This will minimize the risk of repeated installations and ensure that all devices are running the latest updates efficiently.
- next-steps: Research and select a suitable update management tool that integrates with existing systems. Train IT staff on its use and develop a rollout plan for implementation.
- roles: IT Administrators, System Administrators, IT Support Staff
- references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/windows-it-pro-blog/windows-update-management-best-practices/ba-p/2864565
Enhanced User Communication
Develop a communication plan to inform users about the update process and any potential issues with hotpatch updates. This can help manage user expectations and reduce confusion regarding update installations.
- next-steps: Create a template for user communication regarding updates. Schedule regular updates to inform users about the status of their devices and any actions they need to take.
- roles: IT Managers, Communication Officers, End Users
- references: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2021/02/01/how-to-improve-communication-in-your-organization/?sh=5e6d0f3e4f8e
Automated Reporting on Update Status
Implement automated reporting tools that can provide insights into the update status across all devices. This will allow IT to quickly identify any devices that are experiencing issues with updates and address them proactively.
- next-steps: Identify and implement reporting tools that can integrate with existing IT infrastructure. Set up automated reports to be sent to IT staff on a regular basis.
- roles: IT Managers, System Administrators, IT Support Staff
- references: https://www.zdnet.com/article/automate-your-it-reports-with-these-tools/
Potentional Risks**
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IT Security**
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explanation for non-techies**
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Last updated 2 months ago ago
