Windows Vista SP1 Prerequisite Update Causing USB Device Problems

Haven't we heard about Windows Vista SP1 prerequisite updates causing problems before? Yes, we have. When Microsoft re-released KB937287, it also re-released KB938371, and that seems to hose some USB devices, such as mice and keyboards.

On WUGNET, there was a post regarding the issue. Here's a similar one at TechNet. Some have recovered use of their devices by using System Restore and installing SP1; others have fixed the issue by removing all their HID devices in Device Manager, allowing Vista to reinstall the drivers. Some are still stuck. And since, according to Microsoft, KB938371 can't be uninstalled, it's a big problem.

Microsoft has, according to PC Magazine, acknowledged the issue, but has provided no information on a fix.

"We are aware of concerns that a recent Microsoft update may be causing problems with USB devices. We are investigating the matter and at this time do not have any additional information to share."

I have to say, the history of issues with these prerequisite updates for SP1 has not been good, and that's being generous. The issues with not being able to install SP1 without "fixed drivers" has turned SP1 into a fiasco.

Microsoft needs to get all these issues fixed, and fixed quickly, if they want SP1 adoption to continue, not to mention regaining some lost user confidence.