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Sometimes, if your Windows isn’t updating or having issues with the update, you can wait a while and restart your PC. If that doesn’t work, follow this guide because I’ll show you how to fix the problem. 

Regular system updates are essential for keeping Windows computers secure, stable, and running efficiently. These updates patch security vulnerabilities, improve performance, and introduce new features. However, it’s ironic that the very updates designed to fix problems can sometimes become problems. 

If you are one of many people experiencing issues like failed downloads or any other Windows Update errors, this piece is for you. In this article, I’ll explore some of the most common issues people face with Windows updates and show you how you can fix them.

Let’s begin.

What Is the Windows Update Troubleshooter?

The Windows Update troubleshooter is a tool built into Windows with which you can find and fix common problems with Windows updates. The main advantage of using this tool is that its intuitive interface makes it easy for anyone to fix update problems.

This Windows Update repair tool works by checking your system for common problems like wrong system settings or problems with Windows Update services. These fixes help get updates working again without you needing to do anything complex.

Microsoft plans to retire the entire Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool, which includes the Windows Update troubleshooter, in 2025. The tool will be replaced with the new Get Help platform (search for Get Help in Windows Search). 

That means you won’t be able to access Windows Update troubleshooter in its current form soon. But you would still be able to access it through the new Get Help platform.

How to Fix Windows Update Not Working Using the Troubleshooter

Here’s how to use the Windows Update troubleshooter to fix system update errors on both Windows 10 and 11:

The Windows Update troubleshooter can fix common update issues like missing update components or network connectivity problems. However, it may not be effective for complex problems like corrupted system files or driver conflicts. If it doesn’t work for you, implement the other effective methods we’ve covered in this guide.

For Windows 10:

  • Press Windows + I on your keyboard to open the Settings app. In Settings, scroll down and click Update & Security.
  • In the left-hand menu, select Troubleshoot. On the right, click on Windows Update and then select Run the troubleshooter.
In the left-hand menu, select Troubleshoot. On the right, click on Windows Update and then select Run the troubleshooter
  • The troubleshooter will scan for problems. If any issues are found, it’ll suggest or automatically apply fixes. Follow any prompts to complete the process.
The troubleshooter will scan for problems. If any issues are found, it’ll suggest or automatically apply fixes. Follow any prompts to complete the process
  • Once the troubleshooter finishes, restart your computer and try running Windows Update again.

For Windows 11:

  • Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  • In the left-hand menu, click on System. On the right, scroll down and select Troubleshoot.
In the left-hand menu, click on System. On the right, scroll down and select Troubleshoot
  • Click on Other troubleshooters.
Click on Other troubleshooters
  • From the list of options, find Windows Update and click Run next to it.
From the list of options, find Windows Update and click Run next to it
  • The troubleshooter will automatically check for problems and apply fixes.
  • Follow any on-screen guidance to complete the process.
  • You can click on View detailed information to see what the troubleshooter found and how it fixed the problem.
  • After the troubleshooter finishes, restart your computer and check if Windows Update works properly.

What if the Windows Update troubleshooter isn’t showing up?

There are situations where the Windows Update troubleshooter might not show up due to corrupted system files, third-party software conflicts, improper installations, and even Windows Update issues. 

If you can’t find the Windows Update troubleshooter, here are a few things you can do:

  • Run System File Checker: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator (type cmd in Windows Search and click Run as administrator in the right menu), type sfc /scannow, and press Enter to scan for and repair corrupted system files.
  • Reset Windows Update components: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator and type net stop wuauserv to stop Windows Update services. Next, delete the SoftwareDistribution folder. Then, go back to the Command Prompt and type net start wuauserv to restart the services.
  • Use the Microsoft Update Catalog: Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog, search for the update by its KB number, download the correct version for your system, and install it manually.
  • Disable or uninstall third-party software: Sometimes, antivirus or other third-party software can interfere with the troubleshooter. Temporarily disable your antivirus software and try running the troubleshooter again. Also, try deleting any apps you recently installed to see if that fixes the problem. 
  • Restart Windows Update and BITS services: Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and click OK. Make sure that Windows Update and Background Intelligent Transfer Service are running and set to Automatic. 

In the following sections, we’ll explore proven alternative solutions to tackle Windows Update issues.

Other Proven Ways to Fix Windows Update Errors

If the troubleshooter did not find any errors or couldn’t fix your Windows Update issue, below are proven methods that should solve the problem permanently:

Method 1: Run an anti-malware scan

Problems like Windows Update not working can be an indication of a bigger problem like malware infection. Malicious software can disrupt Windows Update processes by disabling essential services, corrupting system files, or blocking access to Microsoft’s servers. 

Malicious software typically blocks Windows updates since an outdated system is vulnerable to threats. Plus, without Windows updates, the malware can easily avoid detection and removal through security patches.

This is beyond what the Windows Update diagnostic tool can solve. Instead, you need to run a full scan with a trusted antivirus or anti-malware program to detect and remove any threats. If all you have is Windows Security, you can follow these steps: 

  • Search for Windows Security in the Start menu and open the app.
Search for Windows Security in the start menu and open the app
  • In the Windows Security window, click on Virus & threat protection.
In the Windows Security window, click on Virus & Threat Protection
  • Under the Current threats section, click on Scan options.
Under the Current Threats section, click on Scan options
  • Select Full scan and then click Scan now. This will scan your entire system for malware and potentially unwanted software.
Select Full scan and then click Scan now

Once the scan is complete, follow any prompts to quarantine or remove any threats found. Afterward, restart your computer and try running Windows Update again to see if your Windows Update error is resolved.

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Method 2: Free some space on your system

Windows needs disk space to download and install updates. So if Windows Update is not working, and you are sure it’s not a malware problem, you should check if you have enough space left.

You need at least 10GB of free space on your main drive to install updates successfully without errors. If your storage is almost full, there are several ways to get more storage space. Let’s go through them: 

Move files to an external drive or cloud storage 

You can transfer large files like photos, videos, and documents to an external drive or a cloud storage service like OneDrive or Google Drive. Consider moving some of your large files to an external hard drive or to the cloud. You can delete these large files after moving them and check if the problem is solved.

Delete temporary files 

  • Go to Settings and click on System.
  • Then, go to Storage and select Temporary files.
Then, go to Storage and select Temporary files
  • Select the files you want to remove by checking the boxes and clicking the Remove files button.
Select the files you want to remove by checking the boxes and clicking the Remove files button

Use Windows Disk Cleanup

  • Type Disk Cleanup in the search bar and select it from the results.
Type Disk Cleanup in the search bar and select it from the results
  • Choose the drive you want to clean up (usually the C: drive).
  • Check the boxes next to the file types you want to delete, such as Temporary files, Thumbnails, and Recycle Bin.
Check the boxes next to the file types you want to delete, such as Temporary files, Thumbnails, and Recycle Bin
  • Click OK and then Delete Files to confirm.
Click OK and then Delete Files to confirm

Uninstall unnecessary programs 

  • Press Windows + I to open the Settings window.
  • Go to Apps and then Installed apps (Apps & features in Windows 10).
Go to Apps and then Apps & features
  • Browse through the list and uninstall programs you no longer need by clicking on them and selecting Uninstall.
Browse through the list and uninstall programs you no longer need by clicking on them and selecting Uninstall

Method 3: Turn off Windows Firewall temporarily

Your Windows Firewall helps you control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on security rules. But sometimes, if your firewall settings are not configured correctly, they may block the connection to Microsoft’s update servers. 

This can be the reason why Windows Update is not working. So, if you’re having trouble with Windows updates, it’s a good idea to turn off your firewall for a few minutes and see if this helps. 

To turn off your firewall, follow these steps:

  • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. Type firewall.cpl and hit Enter.
Type firewall.cpl and hit enter
  • On the left-hand side of the screen, select Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.
On the left-hand side of the screen, select Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off
  • You will see a list of network types. Under each one, select the option that says Turn off Windows Defender Firewall. Then, click OK.
Under each one, select the option that says Turn off Windows Defender Firewall

After turning off your firewall, try running Windows Update once again. If this solves the problem, remember to turn the firewall back on once you’re done troubleshooting to maintain your system’s security.

Method 4: Restart the Windows Update service

Sometimes, the Windows Update service may encounter errors while running, which might be the reason your Windows update is not downloading. This can happen if the service is interrupted or if temporary issues occur while it is running.

Stopping the service can fix this problem by clearing any active processes or conflicts. When you restart, it resets its operation, allowing it to resume updates properly.

Here is how to do it:

  • Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run box. In the box, type services.msc and hit the Enter key to open the Services window.
Type services.msc and hit the Enter key to open the Services window
  • In the Services window, scroll down until you find the Windows Update service. Right-click on it and click Stop.
Right-click on it and click Stop
  • Right-click on Windows Update again and select Start to restart the service.
Right-click on Windows Update again and select Start to restart the service
  • Close the Services window and check for updates again.

Method 5: Clear the Windows Update cache

The Windows Update cache stores temporary files needed for downloading and installing updates. Ideally, these files help speed up the process by avoiding repeated downloads. But if the content of the cache becomes corrupted or outdated, it can cause errors like “Windows Update failed.”

Follow these steps to fix the issue:

  • Search for Command Prompt and run it as an administrator.
Search for command prompt and run it as administrator
  • Enter these commands into the Command Prompt one by one and hit Enter:
net stop wuauserv
Enter the following command: net stop wuauserv 
net stop bits
Enter the following command: net stop bits 
del /s /q %windir%\SoftwareDistribution\Download\*
Enter the following command: del /s /q %windir%SoftwareDistributionDownload* 
net start wuauserv
Enter the following command: net start wuauserv 
net start bits
Enter the following command: net start bits

Try downloading the update again and see if this solves the problem for good.

Method 6: Delete the contents of the SoftwareDistribution folder

After clearing the Windows Update cache, deleting the entire SoftwareDistribution folder can further resolve stubborn update problems. This folder stores Windows Update files, logs, and the update history.

By deleting it, Windows is forced to recreate a fresh update environment, often resolving the problem with Windows Update not working. Some Reddit users have tried this method, and it worked for them.

This process is safe because Windows automatically recreates the folder and its necessary components when you check for updates.

Here’s how to delete the SoftwareDistribution folder: 

  • Open the Command Prompt as an admin and run the following commands one after the other. These commands will temporarily stop Windows Update services:
net stop wuauserv

Enter the following command: net stop wuauserv 

net stop bits
Enter the following command: net stop bits
  • Open Windows Explorer and navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution. You can copy and paste it in the search field.
Open Windows Explorer and navigate to C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution. You can copy and paste it in the search field
  • Select everything in the folder (Ctrl + A) and select Delete.
Select everything in the folder (Ctrl +A) and select Delete
  • Open the Command Prompt again and type the following commands one after the other to restart Windows Update services:
net start wuauserv
Enter the following command: net start wuauserv 
net start bits
Enter the following command: net start bits

Go back and check if this fixed your Windows Update error.

📌 Related: Windows Update Cleanup: How to Delete Old Windows Update Files Safely

Method 7: Repair system files with SFC and DISM

Repairing system files with SFC (System File Checker) and DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) can fix Windows Update errors caused by corrupted or missing files. SFC scans and repairs system files, while DISM fixes the system image, ensuring that the operating system files and configurations are intact and up to date.

Go through the steps below to run the SFC and DISM scans:

  • Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. 
  • In the Command Prompt window, type the following command to run DISM, press Enter, and wait for the scan to complete:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
In the Command Prompt window, type the following command to run DISM, press Enter, and wait for the scan to complete: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  • Once the DISM scan is complete, run System File Checker by typing the following command and pressing Enter and wait for the scan to finish:
sfc /scannow
Once DISM is complete, run the System File Checker by typing and wait for the scan to finish: sfc /scannow
  • After both scans are complete, restart your PC to apply any repairs. Once again, check if your Windows Update error has been fixed.

Method 8: Perform a clean boot

Sometimes, apps or programs not made by Microsoft can interfere with Windows updates because of the way they interact with the operating system. They might change system files, block certain processes, or hog necessary resources.

When this happens, Windows might not get the clear path it needs to download, install, and configure updates. You can perform a clean boot to disable these non-Microsoft apps to see if that fixes the problem. 

Let’s go through the steps:

  • Open the Run box by pressing Windows + R.
  • In the Run box, type msconfig and hit Enter to go to System Configuration.
In the Run box, type msconfig and hit enter to go to System Configuration
  • Click on the Services tab and tick the Hide all Microsoft Services box to leave only the third-party applications. Click on Disable all and then OK.
Click on the Services tab and select Hide all Microsoft Services to leave only the third-party applications. Click on Disable all and then OK
  • After that, try running the update again.

If this fixes the Windows Update problem, it means one of those disabled programs was causing the problem. So, start enabling each program one by one and try running the update again until you find the one that’s causing the issue and remove it.

Method 9: Reset Windows Update registry keys

Registry keys store important settings and configurations for Windows Update. When they are damaged or modified incorrectly, Windows updates may not work. You can reset the registry keys to their default values.

Warning!
Making incorrect changes to the Windows registry can prevent Windows from functioning properly. To avoid issues, back up the registry before you start. Open the Registry Editor (press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter), click File > Export, choose a location, name the file, select All under Export range, and click Save.

Here’s how to reset the Windows Update registry keys:

  • Open the Command Prompt and run it as an administrator.
  • In the Command Prompt, type the following commands one by one, hitting Enter after each, to stop the update-related services:
net stop wuauserv
Enter the following command: net stop wuauserv 
net stop bits
Enter the following command: net stop bits
  • Press Windows + R, type regedit in the run box, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
Press Windows + R, type regedit in the run box and press Enter to open the Registry Editor
  • Navigate to the following path:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsUpdate
Navigate to the following path. HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionWindowsUpdate
  • In the right pane, right-click on the following values (if they exist) and select Delete:
    • SusClientId
    • SusClientIdValidation
In the right pane, right-click on the following values (if they exist) and select Delete: SusClientId SusClientIdValidation
  • Open the Command Prompt again as an administrator.
Open Command Prompt again as administrator

Type the following commands one after the other to restart the Windows Update services:

net start wuauserv

Enter the following command: net start wuauserv 

net start bits
Enter the following command: net start bits

After completing these steps, go back and check for updates again.

Method 10: Install updates from Microsoft manually

Manually installing updates from Microsoft can work when Windows Update fails due to various issues like network problems, corrupted update files, or service interruptions. By manually downloading the update files from the Microsoft Update Catalog, you bypass the usual update process without relying on the Windows Update service.

To do that, follow these steps:

  • Go to Settings > Windows Update (Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update in Windows 10) and copy the details of the update that is failing. Make a note of the KB (knowledge base) number for the update (e.g., KB5006746).
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and copy the details of the update that is failing
  • Go to the Microsoft Update Catalog on another computer. In the search box, type the KB number (e.g., KB5006746) and press Enter.
Go to the Microsoft Update Catalog on another computer. In the search box, type the KB number (e.g., KB5006746) and press Enter
  • Look for the version of the update that matches your operating system (Windows 10 or 11) and your system architecture (e.g., x64 for 64-bit or x86 for 32-bit systems). Once you find it, click the Download button next to the correct version.
PRO TIP
To know your system’s architecture, search for System Information in Windows Search, open the tool, and look for System Type.
Look for the version of the update that matches your operating system (Windows 10 or 11) and your system architecture (e.g., x64 for 64-bit or x86 for 32-bit systems)
  • After downloading the update file, run it on your computer. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.

After the installation, restart your computer to apply the update and check if the issue is gone.

Method 11: Perform a system restore

Finally, if Windows Update is still not working after trying other fixes, performing a system restore can be a useful last resort. It allows you to roll back your system to a previous state when updates were working properly.

It restores system files, settings, and installed programs to their earlier configurations, potentially resolving issues caused by recent changes or updates.

However, this method will only work if you have previously created a restore point. If no restore point exists, you may need to reset Windows or perform a fresh installation to resolve the issue.
  • In Windows Search, type Create a restore point and open the corresponding Control Panel tool.
In Windows Search, type Create a restore point and open the app
  • Under the System Protection tab, click the System Restore button.
Under the System Protection tab, click the System Restore button
  • In the System Restore window, click Next.
In the System Restore window, click Next
  • Select a restore point from the list, preferably one that was created before you started experiencing Windows Update issues, click Next, then click Finish.
Select a restore point from the list, preferably one that was created before you started experiencing Windows Update issues, click Next and then Finish
  • A window will appear warning you that the process cannot be undone. If you’re ready, click Yes to proceed.
A warning will appear that the process cannot be undone. If you're ready, click Yes to proceed
PRO TIP
You can click Scan for affected programs to view a list of programs that will be affected by the restore. This can help you identify software that might be removed or changed during the process.

Your PC will restart, and the restore process will begin. This might take several minutes.

Once completed, Windows will boot up to the state of the selected restore point. Once your system has been restored, check for updates to verify if the issue is resolved.

Here is a summary of all the methods for fixing Windows update issues:

Method What it does How to do it
Run an anti-malware scan Detects and removes malware that may block Windows Update
  • Go to Settings > Privacy & security (Update & Security in Windows 10) > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options > Full scan > Scan now
  • Use Auslogics Anti-Malware for deeper scans
Free some space Frees up disk space required for downloading and installing updates
  • Open File Explorer and delete or move unnecessary files
  • Use Auslogics BoostSpeed for faster cleanup
Turn off the firewall temporarily Prevents misconfigured firewall settings from blocking update servers
  • Press Win + R, type firewall.cpl, hit Enter, click Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off , then select Turn off Windows Defender Firewall
Restart the Windows Update service Clears errors by restarting the update service
  • Press Win + R, type services.msc, hit Enter, right-click Windows Update and select Stop, then restart
Clear Windows Update cache Removes corrupted temporary update files
  • Clear the contents of the Download folder in C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
Delete the SoftwareDistribution folder Forces Windows to recreate update files, fixing stubborn errors
  • Clear the contents of C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
Repair system files (SFC & DISM) Fixes corrupted or missing system files affecting updates
  • Open the Command Prompt and run DISM and SFC scans
Disable non-Microsoft programs Eliminates software conflicts that may block updates
  • Press Win + R, type msconfig, hit Enter, then go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all
Reset Windows Update registry keys Restores corrupted registry settings related to updates
  • Stop Windows Update services with the Command Prompt and then delete damaged Windows Update files
Install updates manually Bypasses automatic updates by manually installing updates
  • Go to Settings > Windows Update (Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update in Windows 10)
  • Note the KB number, search it on Microsoft Update Catalog, then download and install the update manually
Perform a system restore Revert the system to a previous stable state to fix update issues
  • In Windows Search, type Create a restore point and open the tool, then go to System Protection > System Restore and choose a restore point

Common Windows Update Errors on Windows 10/11

The following are some issues that may arise while trying to install system updates. With a diverse range of potential complications, it’s vital to understand the common problems to better troubleshoot them.

All of these errors have been thoroughly addressed in the fixes provided in the guide above.

Issue #1: Update stuck at 0%

Description: Windows Update may remain stuck at 0% due to an unstable internet connection, a malfunctioning update service, or insufficient disk space.

Possible solutions:

  • Check your internet connection.
  • Restart the Windows Update service.
  • Delete all files in C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution.

Issue #2: Update fails to install

Description: A Windows update may download successfully but fail to install, showing a “Windows Update failed” message. This can occur due to insufficient storage space, corrupted system files, or incompatible software.

Possible solutions:

  • Free up disk space.
  • Run SFC and DISM scans to repair system files.
  • Uninstall outdated or incompatible programs.

Issue #3: Slow Windows updates

Description: Windows updates may download slowly due to a weak internet connection or insufficient system resources such as CPU or RAM.

Possible solutions:

Issue #4: Windows Update fails with an error code

Description: Windows Update failures often come with error codes that may seem confusing but serve as indicators of specific issues. These codes can point to problems such as network connectivity issues, corrupted system files, or software incompatibility. Understanding them can help diagnose and resolve update failures more effectively.

Below is a list of some popular Windows Update error codes, along with descriptions and solutions for each:

Error code Description Solution
0x80073712 Required update file is missing or corrupted
  • Run DISM and SFC scans to repair system files
  • Delete the SoftwareDistribution folder
0x80246007 Windows update failed to download or install updates
  • Restart Windows Update services
  • Clear the Windows Update cache
  • Disable your antivirus temporarily
0x80072ee7 Invalid server address or network issues prevent Windows from connecting
  • Check internet connection
  • Reset TCP/IP with 
netsh int ip reset
  • Update DNS settings
0x800f0900 Generic Windows Update error due to corrupted files or system issues
  • Run DISM and SFC scans
  • Restart the Windows Update service
0xc1900223 Windows update was unsuccessful due to network or DNS configuration issues
  • Reset the network stack with 
netsh winsock reset
  • Manually install updates from the Microsoft Update Catalog
0x80070057 Invalid parameters or corrupted update files
  • Clear the SoftwareDistribution folder
  • Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
0x80073701 Missing system files required for updates
  • Run DISM and SFC scans
  • Manually install the update
0x800703e6 Invalid access to memory location, possibly due to file corruption
  • Run SFC and DISM scans
  • Perform a system restore if needed
0x800f0986 Cumulative update failed to install due to corrupted system files
  • Clear the Windows Update cache
  • Run DISM and SFC scans
0x800f0984 Feature update installation failure due to missing or corrupted components
  • Uninstall recent updates
  • Run DISM and SFC scans
  • Clean boot the system
0x80240017 Windows update failed to install due to corrupted files or incompatible drivers
  • Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
  • Disable a third-party antivirus and firewall and try again
0x800F0922 Not enough free space in the system reserved partition or failure to connect to the update server
  • Free up disk space
  • Disable Windows Defender Firewall and try updating again

Issue #5: Windows Update service not running

Description: The Windows Update service is responsible for delivering and installing system updates, security patches, and improvements. If the service is not running, updates may fail due to it being disabled or malfunctioning.

Solution:

  • Restart the Windows Update service.
  • Reset Windows Update registry keys.

Issue #6: Feature update stuck during installation

Description:
A feature update may freeze or fail due to system file issues or conflicts with third-party apps.

Solution:

  • Run the Windows Update troubleshooter.
  • Check for sufficient disk space.
  • Perform a clean boot to identify conflicting applications.

Issue #7: Windows update loop (repeated installation failure)

Description: Windows updates may fail repeatedly and roll back due to corrupt update files or system errors.

Solution:

  • Use System Restore to revert to a previous working state.
  • Delete the SoftwareDistribution folder.
  • Run SFC and DISM to repair system files.

Issue #8: Device incompatible with Windows Update

Description: Older computers may lack the required components for a new Windows version.

Solution:

  • Update drivers to ensure compatibility.
  • Consider upgrading hardware, such as RAM or storage.
  • Consult a professional for a compatibility assessment.

Issue #9: Network or proxy settings issues

Description: Incorrect network or proxy settings can prevent Windows Update from connecting to Microsoft servers.

Solution:

  • Check for a stable internet connection.
  • Disable any active VPN.
  • Reset network configurations if needed.

Issue #10: Windows Update disabled or not working

Description: The Windows Update service may be disabled manually or affected by system conflicts or malware.

Solution:

  • Enable and restart the Windows Update service via the registry.
  • Scan for malware to remove potential threats.

Here is a quick summary of the errors you might face and how you can fix them:

Issue Description Solution
Update stuck at 0% Windows update progress may be stuck at 0% due to an unstable internet connection, malfunctioning update service, or outdated drivers
  • Check your internet connection
  • Restart the Windows Update service
  • Update system drivers
Update fails to install Updates may download but fail to install due to insufficient storage, corrupted system files, or incompatible software
  • Free up disk space
  • Run SFC and DISM scans to repair system files
  • Ensure software compatibility
Slow Windows updates Slow updates can be caused by a bad internet connection or insufficient system resources like CPU and RAM
  • Improve your internet connection
  • Close unnecessary programs to free up system resources
Windows Update fails with an error code Various error codes may appear during update failures, indicating issues like network problems, corrupted files, or software incompatibility
  • Interpret the error codes and apply relevant solutions such as running SFC, DISM, or fixing network settings
Windows Update service not running The Windows Update service may be disabled or malfunctioning, preventing updates from being installed
  • Restart the Windows Update service
  • Reset Windows Update registry keys
Feature update stuck during installation Feature updates may freeze during installation due to system file corruption, insufficient disk space, or software conflicts
  • Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
  • Repair system files with SFC and DISM
  • Ensure sufficient disk space
Windows update loop (repeated installation failure) The update process repeatedly fails and rolls back due to corrupt update files or system errors
  • Use System Restore,
  • Delete the SoftwareDistribution folder
  • Run SFC and DISM to repair files
Device incompatible with Windows Update Hardware incompatibility or outdated drivers may prevent updates from installing
  • Check if your device meets the update requirements
  • Update drivers
  • Consider upgrading hardware components
Network or proxy settings issues Network issues or incorrect proxy settings can block the Windows Update service from connecting to Microsoft servers
  • Ensure a stable internet connection
  • Disable any VPN
  • Reset network configurations if necessary
Windows Update disabled or not working The Windows Update service may be manually disabled or affected by system conflicts or malware
  • Enable and restart the Windows Update service via the registry
  • Scan for malware

Common Windows Update Errors after Updates

After fixing the issue with Windows update, there is still a possibility of finding errors. The following are some of the most common of them and how you can fix them.

Error Description Solution
Blue screen of death (BSOD) after an update BSOD can occur after a Windows update due to incompatible drivers, hardware malfunctions, or corrupt system files
  • Use System Restore to roll back to a previous working state
  • Boot in Safe Mode to uninstall problematic updates or drivers
System crashes or instability after updates Updates may introduce bugs that cause system crashes or instability, often due to software conflicts or incompatible hardware
  • Ensure drivers are up to date
  • Check for new updates
  • Perform a clean boot to identify conflicts caused by third-party software
Device incompatible with the new update Older devices may not meet the hardware or software requirements for a new update, leading to poor system performance
  • Skip the update
  • Upgrade the device’s hardware to meet the update requirements
Corrupted files or missing system files after an update Disk errors or installation interruptions can corrupt or delete system files, leading to errors or crashes
  • Run SFC and DISM to repair corrupted or missing system files and restore the Windows image
Driver issues triggered by updates Updates may introduce changes requiring updated drivers; incompatible or automatically installed drivers can cause issues

Windows Update Not Working: Fixed

Running into issues like Windows Update getting stuck at 0% or failing to install can be a real headache. However, the Windows Update troubleshooter is an excellent starting point for diagnosing and solving common problems.

If the troubleshooter doesn’t work, try the other options we covered, such as resetting Windows Update components, checking for software conflicts, or manually installing updates via the Microsoft Update Catalog.

After fixing the issue, make sure to keep your system up to date with regular updates, disk cleanups, and driver checks to maintain smooth PC performance.

That said, we’d love to hear from you! Did this piece help you, or did we miss something? Tell us in the comments.

FAQ

Why is Windows Update not running?
Windows Update may not run due to issues with the Windows Update service, corrupted files, insufficient disk space, or network problems. To fix it, ensure the Windows Update service is running, check for enough disk space, and run SFC and DISM to repair files.
How do I force Windows to update?
Open PowerShell as an administrator, type the following command, and press Enter:

Install-Module PSWindowsUpdate

Confirm any prompts that appear, then run these commands one at a time to check for and install updates:

Get-WindowsUpdate
Install-WindowsUpdate

These commands will scan for available updates and then install them.

How to fix a corrupted Windows update?
Run the Windows Update troubleshooter, then use SFC and DISM to repair system files. You can also delete the SoftwareDistribution folder and manually install updates if necessary.
Why does Windows Update keep failing?
Update failures can be due to corrupted files, network issues, or driver conflicts. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter, free up disk space, update drivers, and use SFC and DISM to repair corrupted files.
How do I manually start Windows Update?
Go to Settings > Windows Update (Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update in Windows 10) and click Check for updates. You can also restart the Windows Update service via Services or use the Windows Update Assistant.
Why won’t Windows 11 version 24H2 download?
The download might fail due to compatibility issues, lack of disk space, or corrupted files. Ensure your device meets the requirements, check for enough disk space, and run SFC and DISM to repair files. You can also manually download the update.