2026-08 Security Update (KB5121003) (26200.9168) not installing despite following lots of tips.

Grady 25 Reputation points
2026-08-25T09:07:27.4033333+00:00

I just obtained a brand new HP laptop and am completely unable to install this update

Order of events:

  1. I download the update (no problems here)
  2. it prompts for a reboot
  3. upon reboot it somewhat "gives up" and just loads me into a boot screen where I just end up staring at the HP logo forever
  4. I end up holding down on the power button eventually leading to the system to shut down and start up again
  5. upon start up it begins "diagnosing" then "repairing" and eventually undoing the update bringing me back to square one What I have tried:
    1. I have ran all 3 of the dism commands
    2. done ,system--recovery and then "fix problems using windows update"
    3. manually downloading it. Leads to the same issues listed above. Are there any other possible fixes to avoid what's going on? Is Microsoft aware of this issue and working on a fix? If they are, and there are no other solutions I will most likely pause this update until then. If not, well I really have no clue. This is a brand new laptop and I've already returned the previous one for the EXACT same reason.
Windows for home | Windows 11 | Windows update

8 answers

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  1. Bulldog 4,385 Reputation points
    2026-08-26T20:04:42.8666667+00:00

    If a brand new computer purchased from one of the major manufacturers can't install a standard update to Windows, waste no time: Contact the manufacturer. A brand new computer should work perfectly. Take advantage of your warranty - you paid for it!

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    1 person found this answer helpful.

  2. Angela R 0 Reputation points
    2026-08-26T15:58:43.8466667+00:00

    I am having same issue. I have been on with HP for 2 hours and they can't resolve it. I have had issues with this PC from the get go installing updates and this is the latest and worst.

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  3. John DeV 169.6K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-08-25T09:47:11.17+00:00

    Hi, good day!

    Since you have already tried the DISM repairs, Fix problems using Windows Update, and manually installing KB5121003, I would recommend trying an in-place repair upgrade of Windows 11 as the next step. It will definitely help in resolving update errors. Performing this can repair broken operating system files while your personal files, settings and installed applications will not be removed.

    Few things to check on the PC

    Unplug all external peripherals except for the Mouse, Keyboard, and LAN cable before starting

    Disable or uninstall any third-party Antivirus program to prevent it from interfering with the upgrade

    https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/4252110/how-to-run-in-place-upgrade-in-windows-11?forum=windows-all&referrer=answers

    I look forward to receiving your update and I'm willing to collaborate with you till we resolve the issue. Do keep me informed by clicking "Add comment" below.

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