How to Uninstall Windows 11 Update KB5120998
Nederlandse versie kunt u hier vinden: Windows 11-update KB5120998 verwijderen.
Current advice: do not uninstall KB5120998 simply to avoid the old mouse-pointer and desktop-background problems. Microsoft says those personalisation issues were resolved by Windows updates released on and after 8 September 2026, including KB5124008, and recommends installing the latest update for your device.
This illustrated guide remains available as a temporary rollback procedure for people who cannot yet install a newer update or who have been told by support to remove KB5120998. It is written for people with little or no computer experience and does not require commands or special software.
In August, user reports associated KB5120998 with cursor customisation being reset, desktop backgrounds turning solid black and, in some reports, blurry or pixelated text.
Microsoft also documented a separate black-screen sign-in problem seen mainly on Azure Virtual Desktop hosts using FSLogix. It is not the same as a wallpaper turning black. Microsoft says this separate issue is resolved by updates released on and after 13 October 2026, including KB5127648.
The complete click path:
Start > Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates > KB5120998 > Uninstall > Restart
When is removal still appropriate?
First open Windows Update and install the latest update offered for your device. Use this rollback only if KB5120998 is still installed, the problem began immediately after it, and a newer update cannot yet be installed or support has told you to remove it. If the computer is working normally, leave the update installed.
- The mouse pointer suddenly became large and white.
- You can no longer change the mouse pointer.
- Your desktop picture has been replaced by a black background.
- Text looks blurry or pixelated.
Is this a work computer? Contact your organisation’s help desk or system administrator before continuing.
Before you begin
- Save any documents you are working on.
- Close your programs.
- Connect the charger if you are using a laptop.
- Remember that the computer will need to restart.
This procedure is intended to remove only the update. Your personal photographs and documents should normally remain in place.
Step 1: open the Start menu
Where do you click? Click the button with the Windows logo. It is usually at the bottom centre or bottom-left of the screen.
Step 2: open Settings
Where do you click? Click Settings in the Start menu. Its icon looks like a small cogwheel.
If you cannot see Settings, type Settings while the Start menu is open. Then click the result that appears.
Step 3: open Windows Update
Where do you click? Click Windows Update in the left-hand column of the Settings window.
Step 4: open Update history
Where do you click? Under More options, find and click Update history. You may need to scroll down slightly.
Step 5: open Uninstall updates
Where do you click? Scroll down. Under Related settings, click Uninstall updates.
Step 6: find KB5120998
Look for the exact number KB5120998 in the list. Check the number carefully, one digit at a time.
Important: do not remove a different update. If you cannot find KB5120998, stop. The update is probably not installed on your computer or cannot be removed from this screen.
Step 7: uninstall the update
Where do you click? Click Uninstall next to KB5120998. Windows may ask for confirmation. If it does, click Uninstall or Yes again.
If Windows asks for an administrator password, you will need the password belonging to the person who manages the computer.
Step 8: wait patiently
Removing the update may take several minutes. The display may change during the process. Do not turn off the computer, unplug it or close the laptop.
Step 9: restart the computer
Where do you click? Click Restart now if this button appears.
If the button does not appear, click the Windows logo, click the power button and then click Restart.
Restarting may take longer than usual. Do not turn off the computer during this process.
After the restart
- Check whether the mouse pointer is back to normal.
- Check whether the desktop wallpaper remains in place.
- Check whether text is clear and readable again.
After checking the result, return to Windows Update. Do not permanently disable it. If no newer update is available and KB5120998 is offered again, ask support before reinstalling it.
What if it does not work?
Do not remove other updates at random. Ask a family member, a trusted friend or a computer support service for help. Show them this guide and the number KB5120998.
