Microsoft Clarifies Mouse Reset Glitch Limited to Non‑English Windows 11 Installations

Microsoft confirmed that a bug causing mouse settings to revert after applying the KB5120998 preview update for August 2026 is confined to Windows 11 installations that use non‑English language packs. The company’s statement, released after multiple reports surfaced online, emphasizes that English‑language versions of the operating system are not affected by the issue.

The problem was first highlighted by security‑focused site BleepingComputer, which noted that users who installed the KB5120998 update experienced their cursor speed and button configuration returning to default values. While the glitch appears to be limited to certain regional builds, it has prompted a wave of inquiries on forums and social media, especially among users who rely on customized mouse settings for accessibility or productivity.

Microsoft’s explanation points to a conflict between the update’s configuration scripts and the localized components of Windows 11. According to the vendor, the update modifies system registry entries related to input devices, but an oversight in the handling of language‑specific registry paths leads to the unintended reset on non‑English installations. The company is reportedly working on a targeted fix that will be rolled out in a forthcoming cumulative update.

For now, Microsoft advises affected users to back up their preferred mouse settings before applying the preview update, or to temporarily defer the installation until a remedial patch is released. The guidance also includes steps to manually restore the settings via the Settings app or the Control Panel, though the process may vary depending on the specific language pack in use.

The incident underscores the challenges of maintaining a globally consistent update cycle for an operating system that supports dozens of languages and regional configurations. As Microsoft continues to refine its testing procedures for preview releases, the company’s prompt acknowledgment of the bug and its limited scope may help mitigate broader concerns among enterprise and consumer users alike.