Windows 10 optional update causes computer to ignore printer & mouse,

Keithorino · 18 Nov 2020

Hi everybody!!! I'm Keith and I'm new here, would appreciate any advice or wisdom you care to share. Has anyone else had or heard of this experience: Last week I was fiddling with Windows 10 (Version 2004, OS Build 19041.630) updates and noticed there were "optional" updates available. So I tried one, I don't remember which one it was, but next session neither the printer nor the mouse were recognized by the computer. I eventually got the printer back to being recognized by going to the Epson software and running a diagnostic routine. I still haven't figured out how to get the mouse recognized again. Anyone have any ideas???

dalchina · 18 Nov 2020

Hi, are you virtually unable to use your PC lacking a mouse? Or is your touchpad still working?

Driver updates are now optional, so that's one possibility.

If you look at your Update History you should be able to see what was installed when.

I note e.g. these are optional
Direct Download links for Windows 10 KB4571744 (Build 19041.488)

This optional patch advances systems to Windows 10 Build 19041.488 and is intended for previewing fixes updates that will be arriving on Tuesday.

Windows 10 KB4577063 (Build 19041.546) released with major fixes

Windows 10 KB4577063 is an optional update and it won’t download or install on your device without explicit permission. For those already running Windows 10 October 2020 Update, they’ll be getting Build 19042.546 instead with the same list of fixes.

Normally you can uninstall updates, so that might be an option.

Another possibility would be to try using an appropriate System Restore point if you have one.

Failing that, restore your system from a previously created disk image if you have no other alternative. (The routine use of disk imaging is recommended time and again here so users can rescue themselves from difficult situations).
E.g. Macrium Reflect (free-paid) + large enough external storage.