Microsoft Releases KB5072653 to Fix Windows 10 ESU Install Errors

Have you ever tried to install a Windows update and ended up with many failed attempts? I just recently had that issue with my old Windows 10 PC something I am becoming accustomed to. If you also have a Windows 10 PC with Extended Security Updates (ESU), this article is for you! KB5072653 will resolve the ESU install failure issue.

What Issue Does It Resolve?​

Microsoft officially ended Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025. However, for those who wanted to receive continuing security updates, Microsoft's answer was the ESU plan.

Since first being released, many have experienced the ESU update KB5068781 attempting to install and running into an error message of 0x800f0922.

This has caused the ESU update to not install, and many surely felt a sense of urgency.

Why KB5072653 Matters​

Microsoft has issued KB5072653 as an Out-of-Band (OOB) update.

This highlights that Microsoft put out this fix very quickly, ahead of their normal Patch Tuesday cadence, just to deal with this bug.

This update will:

• Fix 0x800f0922 install error
• Restore normal installs for ESU users
• Only work for Windows 10 version 22H2 or supported builds
• Require a restart after install

After you install the update, you can also install ESU updates again — and KB5068781.

In my case:

The other times the update will stop installing half way and had an error — it was like hitting a brick wall.

After the KB5072653 update, the updates were successful.

It almost felt like Windows had finally opened the door and said "Come on in!"

What To Do Next​

I encourage you to:

• Open Windows Update on your Windows 10 computer
• Search for KB5072653 and install it
• Reboot the computer
• After the reboot, check for updates again

Then install the ESU updates as you would normally, if you are utilizing an office environment with WSUS, SCCM, or other similar services, Microsoft is issuing a new update file shortly to assist with easier detection.

Final Thoughts​

If you are still running Windows 10 and relying on ESUs for security, KB5072653 should be installed as a required update.

It resolved an important issue that was blocking lots of significant updates.

This update will allow you to start receiving security updates on your computer again.

And if you are going to be using Windows 10 for a little while longer, this is an update that will keep you secure and updated.