Nerd Cave
Microsoft released its October 2026 Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 11 on October 13, 2026. The two updates are KB5127648 and KB5126653, and they cover Windows 11 versions 26H2, 25H2, 24H2 and 23H2.
Should you install it?
Yes. These are mandatory security updates. They patch a large batch of security holes found over the past several months, so this isn't one to put off.
How to install
- Click Start, then Settings.
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and let it install.
- Restart when asked.
Prefer to do it by hand? You can download the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
What's new (the highlights)
Besides the security fixes, this month brings a surprising number of small improvements.
One thing going away
PC-to-PC Migration in Windows Backup has been removed. If you're moving to a new PC, use regular Windows Backup to save and restore your files and settings instead.
Known issues
Microsoft says it isn't aware of any new problems with this update. A small number of PCs may still have audio trouble with older USB 1.0 audio devices, but it isn't widespread.
The short version
- What: October 2026 security updates for Windows 11 (KB5127648 and KB5126653).
- Do I need it? Yes. It's a mandatory security update.
- How: Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates, then restart.
- Bonus: New emoji, Copilot key remapping, touchpad gestures and a stack of fixes.
For the full list of changes, see BleepingComputer's write-up: Windows 11 KB5127648 & KB5126653 cumulative updates released
Need a hand getting your PC updated? I can do it for you over a quick remote support session. Get in touch.
Information current as of October 2026.