Microsoft released an out-of-band Windows 11 update, KB5086672, to fix a widespread installation failure affecting versions 25H2 and 24H2 after the March preview update KB5079391 triggered repeated setup errors. Affected systems entered a loop of failed update attempts and reported error code 0x80073712, which indicates missing or corrupted update files. Microsoft withdrew the faulty preview release and replaced it with a cumulative package that also carries forward March security and quality fixes.
The emergency package moves impacted devices to OS builds 26200.8117 and 26100.8117 and also updates several local AI components. Microsoft said the fix is available through Windows Update, the Microsoft Update Catalog, and manual installation in Settings, while enterprise administrators can accelerate deployment through Intune or Windows Autopatch expedited quality updates. Because the release combines the servicing stack and cumulative update, rollback options are limited and manual removal may require DISM.

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On March 31, 2026, Microsoft released out-of-band update KB5086672 to correct the Windows 11 installation loop problem. The replacement cumulative package included prior March security and quality fixes, advanced systems to builds 26200.8117 and 26100.8117, and updated several local AI components.
Microsoft pulled the March 2026 preview update after identifying that it was causing installation loop issues on Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 systems. The withdrawal was part of the company's response to stop further impact from the faulty package.
After KB5079391 was released, affected Windows 11 devices began experiencing persistent installation failures and repeated update attempts. Microsoft associated the issue with error code 0x80073712, indicating missing or corrupted update files.
Microsoft issued the March 26, 2026 non-security preview update KB5079391 for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. This update later proved to trigger repeated installation failures on affected systems.
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