Windows update KB5086672 failed to install with error code 0xc0000098

Question

Downloaded and installed Windows update KB5086672. Seems to install; but upon startup I get pixilated screen and then a blue screen with error code 0xc0000098. I booted into safe mode and uninstalled update KB5086672. PC starts and runs fine. Turned off automatic updates. Should I try to fix this and install KB5086672 or just not install it?

Answer 1

KB5086672 is causing a boot error 0xc0000098, which indicates a problem loading required system files after the update. A similar known issue exists for a May 2025 Windows security update that can cause 0xc0000098 with ACPI.sys, especially on virtualized systems, and Microsoft resolved it with a later out-of-band update.

Given that uninstalling KB5086672 restores normal operation and the device boots and runs fine, the safest approach is:

1. Leave KB5086672 uninstalled for now and keep automatic updates disabled only temporarily.
2. Monitor for a follow-up or out-of-band update from Microsoft that specifically addresses 0xc0000098 boot errors related to this update (similar to how KB5062170 addresses the 0xc0000098 issue for KB5058405).
3. Once a corrective update is available, re-enable automatic updates and install the newer cumulative update that supersedes KB5086672 instead of reinstalling KB5086672 itself.

Reinstalling KB5086672 now is likely to reproduce the same boot failure and is not recommended until Microsoft publishes a documented fix or replacement.

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References:

• May 13, 2025—KB5058405 (OS Builds 22621.5335 and 22631.5335)