2026-09 Security Update (KB5124008) stops HyperX Cloud Orbit S headset from working

Hello

Your uninstall/reinstall test strongly suggests the update triggers the problem. Microsoft’s current release notes do not list this issue or a specific fix: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/servicing/os/windows-11/2026/09/kb5124008-windows-11-24h2-25h2-security-update

I suggest trying these steps with KB5124008 installed:

Right-click Start > Device Manager > Sound, video and game controllers.

Right-click the HyperX headset > Uninstall device. Leave any option to remove the driver unchecked.

Disconnect the headset, restart Windows, then reconnect it directly to a USB port and select it under Settings > System > Sound > Output.

This refreshes the headset’s device setup and may restore audio. Microsoft’s guidance: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/hardware/audio/update-audio-drivers-in-windows

If it still fails, does unplugging the headset immediately unfreeze the taskbar volume control?

Hello TaoLi

Thank you for your speedy response.

I carried out the steps you suggested above but it hasn't fixed the issue. The volume control in the task bar worked after the restart but the after plugging the headset back in there is no sound playing (it is turned on) and I am unable to adjust the volume slider in the taskbar.

If I unplug the headset, windows changes the output device to the monitor and the volume control in the task bar works again (although there is no sound because there are no speakers on the monitor).

Hello PG,

Thank you for checking. The volume control recovering when you unplug the headset points to its USB audio connection.

I suggest testing the headset’s “2 Channel” mode with KB5124008 installed:

With the headset powered on and connected via USB, press and hold the microphone volume wheel for 2 seconds. Release and repeat until you hear “2 Channel”.

Open Settings > System > Sound, select the HyperX “2Ch” output, and test sound and volume adjustment.

If it still freezes, try the headset’s 3.5 mm cable if your PC has a headphone jack. Disconnect USB, keep the headset powered on, and select the PC’s headphone output. This bypasses USB audio while retaining the security update.

These modes are documented in the headset manual: https://manuals.plus/hyperx/colud-orbit-orbit-s-headset-manual

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Hello TaoLi

Thanks again.

After switching the headset to 2 channel mode the sound returns and i'm able to adjust the volume via the taskbar. As soon as I switch it back to 7.1 channel there is no sound and the volume control in the taskbar is unusable again.

I do not currently have a 3.5mm cable; I will try to find one but it may be a few days. Will using 3.5mm cable mean 7.1 channel is unavailable?

Using 2 channel mode isn't really acceptable for the intended use; gaming.

Hello PG,

Your tests strongly suggest that KB5124008 triggers a compatibility issue with the headset’s USB 7.1 mode. A 3.5 mm cable carries stereo, so it would not restore that functionality.

If disabling audio enhancements does not help, the most reliable temporary workaround is to uninstall KB5124008 again, since you have already confirmed that removing it restores sound.

Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates, remove KB5124008, then restart. Instructions: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/deployment/updates-lifecycle/how-to-uninstall-a-windows-update

You can briefly pause updates to prevent immediate reinstallation—for example, seven days: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/deployment/updates-lifecycle/pause-updates-in-windows

This temporarily removes the update’s security fixes. I cannot currently confirm a solution that retains both this update and working USB 7.1 audio.

Please also report the issue through Win + F, including that 2-channel works, 7.1 freezes audio, and uninstalling KB5124008 restores operation.