Windows 11 KB5077181 Security Update Causing Some Devices to Restart in an Infinite Loop
On Tue, Feb 10, 2026, Microsoft released the KB5077181 security update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 (build 26200.7840) and 25H2 (build 26100.7840). This update has caused multiple reports of critical boot failures shortly after deployment.
On Tue, Feb 10, 2026, Microsoft released the KB5077181 security update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 (build 26200.7840) and 25H2 (build 26100.7840). This update has caused multiple reports of critical boot failures shortly after deployment.
Users have reported devices entering infinite restart loops, often exceeding 15 cycles, which prevents access to the desktop.
This cumulative update provides essential security fixes and quality improvements from previous releases. Microsoft security updates address 58 vulnerabilities across Windows components, including six zero-day exploits, as confirmed by CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog.
Elevation of privilege flaws Remote code execution risks Security bypasses in core systems
CVE ID Description
CVE-2026-21510 Windows Shell security feature bypass allowing SmartScreen evasion via malicious links.
On Tue, Feb 10, 2026, Microsoft released the KB5077181 security update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 (build 26200.7840) and 25H2 (build 26100.7840).
CVE-2026-21519 Desktop Window Manager elevation of privilege to SYSTEM level.
CVE-2026-21533 Windows Remote Desktop Services elevation of privilege; exploited zero-day.
CVE-2026-20841 Notepad remote code execution via crafted Markdown files.
The update also introduces new Secure Boot certificates to address the expiration of 2011 certificates in June 2026, enhancing boot integrity. It fixes gaming eligibility checks and WPA3 Wi-Fi connectivity.
Despite these enhancements, Microsoft lists no known issues on its release page or health dashboard as of February 15.
Affected systems encounter post-installation failures, including System Event Notification Service (SENS) errors and DHCP failures, leading to internet connectivity loss. Errors such as 0x800f0983 and 0x800f0991 are reported, primarily on specific hardware configurations.
To resolve these issues, users are advised to uninstall KB5077181 by navigating to Control Panel > Programs and Features > View installed updates, selecting the KB, and uninstalling it before restarting. Users should pause Windows Update thereafter to prevent reinstallation.
If boot loops continue, enter Windows Recovery Environment, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt, and execute: wusa /uninstall /kb:5077181 /quiet /norestart . Run sfc /scannow for file repairs if needed. Enterprises should deploy updates via WSUS with appropriate testing and monitoring.
Based on reporting by Cyber Security News.
