In Windows 11, you decide when and how to get the latest updates to keep your device running smoothly and securely. This article will help you answer questions and troubleshoot common problems with your Windows 11 update.
If you’re looking for info on how to activate Windows 11 or to verify that your installation of Windows 11 is activated, see
Activate Windows
.
Have issues installing Windows updates? Start here.
Your device may not be able to update to the latest version of Windows 11 for a few reasons. The following tips can help you pinpoint the issue affecting your device.
Before you begin, make sure your device is plugged into a power source and connected to the internet. Then, try the steps listed below to get your PC to update.
Some updates require administrator access. If your account doesn’t have administrator access, see
Create a local user or administrator account in Windows
. Or if someone else at home or in your office has an administrator account on your device, try asking them to install the updates.
Important:
-
Before trying any of the solutions below, make sure you back up your personal files. You can back up your Windows PC, or insert a USB drive and use File Explorer to drag and copy important files to the USB drive. If you’re signing into Windows with a Microsoft account, your system settings will be automatically restored after updating, once you’re connected to the internet.
-
You can also back up your files with OneDrive. For more info, go to
Back up your Documents, Pictures, and Desktop folders with OneDrive
.
-
Learn more about Windows Update
Make sure that your device has enough space.
Your device requires at least 16 GB of free space to upgrade a 32-bit OS, or 20 GB for a 64-bit OS. If your device has a small hard drive, you may need to insert a USB drive to update it.
If your PC is running low on storage, try the techniques at
Free up drive space in Windows
.
Many updates require you to restart your device. Save your work and close all open applications. Then, select
Start
>
Power
, and select either
Update and restart
or
Update and shut down
.
Even if you have downloaded some updates, there may be more available. After trying the preceding steps, run Windows Update again by selecting
Start
>
Settings
>
Windows Update
>
Check for updates
. Download and install any new updates.
Check for updates in Settings
Remove any external storage devices and drives, docks, and other hardware plugged into your device that aren’t needed for basic functionality. Then try to run updates again and see if this resolved your issue. If it didn’t, continue to the next tip.
If you’ve added hardware to your device, check for third-party driver updates and installation instructions on the hardware manufacturer’s website. Update any drivers, then try to run updates again and see if this resolved your issue. If it didn’t, continue to the next tip.
-
In the search box on the taskbar, type
device manager
, then select
Device Manager
from the list of results. -
In the window that appears, look for any device with a yellow exclamation mark next to it. (You may have to select each category to view the list of devices.) Select the device name.
-
Select
Action
, and then choose either
Update driver
or
Uninstall
to correct the errors.
Common troubleshooting questions
The time required to download and install updates depends on connection speed, network settings, and the size of the update. If the installation remains stuck at the same percentage, try checking for updates again or running the
Windows Update Troubleshooter
.
To check for updates, select
Start
>
Settings
>
Windows Update
>
Check for updates
.
To get help, in the search box on the taskbar, type
get help
, then select
Get Help
from the list of results. To leave feedback if you run into further problems, in the search box on the taskbar, type
feedback hub
, then select
Feedback Hub
from the list of results.
You will only receive a notification when it’s time to restart your computer to apply the installed updates.
Monthly quality updates on Windows 11 are quite small and have a minimal impact on data usage. Feature updates typically happen twice per year, and you can control when to install them. They require more data but are less frequent.
If you’re on a metered connection, some updates for Windows won’t be installed automatically.
Metered connections in Windows
Your computer might be slow for a number of reasons, but updating to the latest version of Windows 11 can improve its performance. For help with a slow computer, see
Tips to improve PC performance in Windows
.
Advanced
Warning:
Microsoft only recommends trying the procedures in this section if you’re comfortable working in the command line. These procedures require administrator permissions on your device.
-
In the search box on the taskbar, type
command prompt
, then select
Run as administrator
from the list of options. Select
Yes
. Next, in the window that appears, type the following commands one at a time, including the spaces as shown. After you type each command, press
Enter
. Then let each command complete before you type the next command.
net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
ren %systemroot%\softwaredistribution softwaredistribution.bak
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 catroot2.bak
net start bits
net start wuauserv
-
After all these commands are completed, close the Command Prompt window and restart your computer.
In some instances, third-party antivirus or security software can cause errors when you try to update to the latest version of Windows 11. You can temporarily uninstall this software, update your PC, and then reinstall the software after your device is up to date. We recommend using third-party antivirus or security software that’s compatible with the latest version of Windows 11. You can check compatibility by visiting the software manufacturer’s website.
Note:
Before uninstalling software, make sure you know how to reinstall your programs and that you have any necessary product keys.
In the search box on the taskbar, type
command prompt,
and then select
Run as administrator
from the list of options. Select
Yes
. In the window that appears, type the following command, including the space as shown:
chkdsk/f C:
and then press
Enter
. Repairs will automatically start on your hard drive, and you’ll be asked to restart your device.
A clean restart starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This helps eliminate software conflicts that occur when you install a program or an update that may cause issues updating your PC.
Learn how to do a clean restart
-
In the search box on the taskbar, type
command prompt
, then select
Run as administrator
from the list of options. -
In the window that appears, type this command including spaces as shown:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
-
Press
Enter
. When the command operation has run successfully, you’ll see a confirmation message from Command Prompt that says, “The restore operation completed successfully” or “The operation completed successfully”.
Note: If you don’t see a confirmation message, retype the command and try again. -
Next, type this command, including the space as shown:
sfc /scannow
-
Press
Enter
. Wait until the
sfc
scan verification reaches 100% completion, and then close Command Prompt. -
Try running the Windows Update again.
Learn how to repair a Windows image
Go to
the software download page
and select
Download tool now
to download the clean installation tool. Make sure to carefully read the notes on the software download page before using the tool.
In Windows 10, you decide when and how to get the latest updates to keep your device running smoothly and securely. This article will help you answer questions and troubleshoot common problems with your Windows 10 update.
If you’re looking for info on how to activate Windows 10 or to verify that your installation of Windows 10 is activated, see
Activate Windows
.
Have issues installing Windows updates? Start here.
Your device may not be able to update to the latest version of Windows 10 for a few reasons. The following tips can help you pinpoint the issue affecting your device.
Before you begin, make sure your device is plugged into a power source and connected to the internet. Then, try the steps listed below to get your PC to update.
Some updates require administrator access. If your account doesn’t have administrator access, see
Create a local user or administrator account in Windows
. Or if someone else at home or in your office has an administrator account on your device, try asking them to install the updates.
Important:
-
Before trying any of the solutions below, make sure you back up your personal files. You can back up your Windows PC, or insert a USB drive and use File Explorer to drag and copy important files to the USB drive. If you’re signing into Windows with a Microsoft account, your system settings will be automatically restored after updating, once you’re connected to the internet.
-
You can also back up your files with OneDrive. For more info, go to
Back up your Documents, Pictures, and Desktop folders with OneDrive
.
-
Learn more about Windows Update
-
Serviced versions of Windows 10: Frequently asked questions
Make sure that your device has enough space.
Your device requires at least 16 GB of free space to upgrade a 32-bit OS, or 20 GB for a 64-bit OS. If your device has a small hard drive, you may need to insert a USB drive to update it.
If your PC is running low on storage, try the techniques at
Free up drive space in Windows
.
Many updates require you to restart your device. Save your work and close all open applications. Then, select
Start
>
Power
, and select either
Update and restart
or
Update and shut down
.
Even if you have downloaded some updates, there may be more available. After trying the preceding steps, run Windows Update again by selecting
Start
>
Settings
>
Update & Security
>
Windows Update
>
Check for updates
. Download and install any new updates.
Check for updates in Settings
Remove any external storage devices and drives, docks, and other hardware plugged into your device that aren’t needed for basic functionality. Then try to run updates again and see if this resolved your issue. If it didn’t, continue to the next tip.
If you’ve added hardware to your device, check for third-party driver updates and installation instructions on the hardware manufacturer’s website. Update any drivers, then try to run updates again and see if this resolved your issue. If it didn’t, continue to the next tip.
-
In the search box on the taskbar, type
device manager
, then select
Device Manager
from the list of results. -
In the window that appears, look for any device with a yellow exclamation mark next to it. (You may have to select each category to view the list of devices.) Select the device name.
-
Select
Action
, and then choose either
Update driver
or
Uninstall
to correct the errors.
Common troubleshooting questions
The time required to download and install updates depends on connection speed, network settings, and the size of the update. If the installation remains stuck at the same percentage, try checking for updates again or running the
Windows Update Troubleshooter
.
To check for updates, select
Start
>
Settings
>
Update & Security
>
Windows Update
>
Check for updates.
To get help, in the search box on the task bar, type
get help
, then select
Get Help
from the list of results. To leave feedback if you run into further problems, in the search box on the taskbar, type
feedback hub
, then select
Feedback Hub
from the list of results.
You will only receive a notification when it’s time to restart your computer to apply the installed updates.
Tips:
-
If you need to know where you left off in your work after an update, use Timeline to jump back in.
-
To get started with Timeline, select
Task View
on the taskbar, or press the Windows logo key
+Tab and select the activity you want to resume.
Monthly quality updates on Windows 10 are quite small and have a minimal impact on data usage. Feature updates typically happen twice per year, and you can control when to install them. They require more data but are less frequent.
If you’re on a metered connection, some updates for Windows won’t be installed automatically.
Metered connections in Windows
Your computer might be slow for a number of reasons, but updating to the latest version of Windows 10 can improve its performance. For help with a slow computer, see
Tips to improve PC performance in Windows
.
Advanced
Warning:
Microsoft only recommends trying the procedures in this section if you’re comfortable working in the command line. These procedures require administrator permissions on your device.
-
In the search box on the taskbar, type
command prompt
, then select
Run as administrator
from the list of options. Select
Yes
. Next, in the window that appears, type the following commands one at a time, including the spaces as shown. After you type each command, press
Enter
. Then let each command complete before you type the next command.
net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
ren %systemroot%\softwaredistribution softwaredistribution.bak
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 catroot2.bak
net start bits
net start wuauserv
-
After all these commands are completed, close the Command Prompt window and restart your computer.
In some instances, third-party antivirus or security software can cause errors when you try to update to the latest version of Windows 10. You can temporarily uninstall this software, update your PC, and then reinstall the software after your device is up to date. We recommend using third-party antivirus or security software that’s compatible with the latest version of Windows 10. You can check compatibility by visiting the software manufacturer’s website.
Note:
Before uninstalling software, make sure you know how to reinstall your programs and that you have any necessary product keys.
In the search box on the taskbar, type
command prompt,
and then select
Run as administrator
from the list of options. Select
Yes
.
In the window that appears, type the following command, including the space as shown:
chkdsk/f C:
and then press
Enter
. Repairs will automatically start on your hard drive, and you’ll be asked to restart your device.
A clean restart starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This helps eliminate software conflicts that occur when you install a program or an update that may cause issues updating your PC.
Learn how to do a clean restart
-
In the search box on the taskbar, type
command prompt
, then select
Run as administrator
from the list of options. -
In the window that appears, type this command including spaces as shown:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
-
Press
Enter
. When the command operation has run successfully, you’ll see a confirmation message from Command Prompt that says, “The restore operation completed successfully” or “The operation completed successfully”.
Note: If you don’t see a confirmation message, retype the command and try again. -
Next, type this command, including the space as shown:
sfc /scannow
-
Press
Enter
. Wait until the
sfc
scan verification reaches 100% completion, and then close Command Prompt. -
Try running the Windows Update again.
Learn how to repair a Windows image
Go to
the software download page
and select
Download tool now
to download the clean installation tool. Make sure to carefully read the notes on the software download page before using the tool.
Still stuck?
Contact
Microsoft support
if you continue to have problems with your Windows updates.
Recommended articles
Activate Windows
How to use the PC Health Check app
Windows Update: FAQ
Create a local user or administrator account in Windows
Windows Update troubleshooter
Free up drive space in Windows
Start by running the Windows Update troubleshooter
by Madalina Dinita
Madalina has been a Windows fan ever since she got her hands on her first Windows XP computer. She is interested in all things technology, especially emerging technologies… read more
Updated on
Reviewed by
Vlad Turiceanu
Passionate about technology, Windows, and everything that has a power button, he spent most of his time developing new skills and learning more about the tech world. Coming… read more
- Windows Update is not working? Microsoft’s troubleshooter is great for diagnosing the issue.
- A good idea if Windows update won’t load is to roll back to a previous Windows 10 instance.
- It is also imperative to check your system for possible malware that can cause this issue.
XINSTALL BY CLICKING THE DOWNLOAD
FILE
Windows 10 is one of the biggest releases that Microsoft ever announced and Windows Update made a colossal difference to the overall user experience.
While they are supposed to download automatically, the process is not always as streamlined as intended and glitches can occur.
For some users, Windows Update not working issues occur frequently, while others may stumble across this problem occasionally when performing specific tasks.
Let’s quickly go through the most common scenarios for which Windows 10 updates won’t install and check out the culprits behind each of them.
Why is my Windows Update not working?
In the event that Windows is unable to finish installing an update, check to confirm that you are properly connected to the Internet and that your hard disk has sufficient free space, as these are the two most common causes.
You might also try restarting your computer, or you could check to make sure that Windows drivers were installed successfully.
Here is a list of the most common Windows Update errors that users reported getting in Windows 10:
- Windows 10 updates won’t install on restart – The update process gets stuck after performing a system restart.
- Windows Update not working in Safe Mode Windows 7/10/11 – Safe Mode only allows essential system programs to start up at boot. Installing Windows updates in Safe Mode is only recommended if you cannot start Windows normally.)
- Windows Update stuck on downloading – This error can also be found under this form: We couldn’t install this update 0x80070541. While the numeric part can vary, the description often reads We couldn’t install this update, but you can try again.
- Windows Update download button is not working or button is missing altogether – This error prevents you from force-downloading certain features. In some cases, Windows Update database corruption can occur and prevent you from installing updates.
- Windows 10 Update can’t find the necessary file – The error stating some update files are missing or have problems is usually caused by some corrupted Windows update caches.)
- Download error 0x80070002 – This error is usually triggered by deprecated apps.
- One of the Update services is not running properly in Windows 10 – One of the essential services on which WU relies, the Windows Update Service is not running at all.
- Windows Update not working through a proxy, after cloning hard drive – Even though it is a solid method to protect your privacy online, many users reported various issues while using a proxy.
- Windows Update, not enough space – This is a common problem, and it’s usually caused by the lack of space. To fix the issue, try removing unnecessary files and check if that resolves your problem.
- We couldn’t install updates because there’s a problem with the date and time information on your device
- Your device is missing important security and quality fixes – This error is sometimes caused by problematic recent updates.
- Windows Update messed up my computer 2022 – Uninstalling the latest Windows update is one of the best solutions in this case.
- Windows Update not up to date but no updates – Perhaps you will simply have to wait until the devs will push a new update.
This being said, let’s see what you can do if Windows 10 or 11 won’t install. If you still can’t seem to fix the issue, check out our last section with similar articles that cover more update-related errors.
What to do if Windows Update is not working?
- Why is my Windows Update not working?
- What to do if Windows Update is not working?
- 1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
- 2. Use System Restore to roll back and uninstall a bad update
- 3. Scan your PC for malware
- 4. Install a fresh version of Windows
- 5. Delete all files from the Software Distribution directory
- 5.1 Use the Windows Services
- 5.2 Use Command Prompt
- 6. Change your DNS
- How to delete Windows 10 updates that won’t install?
- What can I do if Windows Update is not working on Windows 11?
1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
- Click on the Start button, type troubleshoot, and select Troubleshoot settings from the results.
- Click on Aditional troubleshooters.
- Select Windows Update and then click on the Run the troubleshooter button.
Microsoft’s Windows Update Troubleshooter is a good way of knowing the problem if it is not much complex. It is almost everyone’s first choice whether a newbie or a professional.
Unfortunately, it does not always manage to solve the issue. In fact, it will most likely retrieve a result that resembles this description: Windows Update troubleshooting couldn’t identify the problem.
Whether it fixes your problem or not, it can surely provide you with useful information, so don’t be shy to use the Windows Update troubleshooter in Windows 10 or 11. Anyways, if Windows Troubleshooter is not working, move on to our next solution.
2. Use System Restore to roll back and uninstall a bad update
If Windows Update is not working, System Restore might be the best way to fix it. This makes your computer back into the past when it was working fine, so follow the steps above to get this done.
- Open Start Menu from the Taskbar at the bottom of the screen then click to open the Settings right above the Power button.
2. Click Update & Security.
How we test, review and rate?
We have worked for the past 6 months on building a new review system on how we produce content. Using it, we have subsequently redone most of our articles to provide actual hands-on expertise on the guides we made.
For more details you can read how we test, review, and rate at WindowsReport.
3. In this new window, you need to select View update history and find the last successful update installed on your Windows.
4. You will now see a list of updates installed on your system.
5. Click on the Uninstall updates at the top.
6. When you click Uninstall updates, a new window will pop up which shows the new updates that are installed on the PC.
7. You can choose to uninstall any of these updates but proceed with caution as uninstalling a critical update will lead to a PC that is full of bugs.
After the completion of the restore, your computer will work fine.
Needless to say, the solution implies you already have created a restore point to which you want to revert now. If you can’t find a restore point, you may need to create one manually.
One drawback of using Windows’ own Restore point is that, while it creates an identical picture of your PC’s contents at any given time, you may wind up copying data that is already flawed or corrupted.
To begin with, using a specialist tool like Fortect, which is totally automated and requires no scheduling or user input, can minimize the hassle.
Second, it uses its own repositories to correct registry keys and files before producing its own restore points, so you always know that whichever restore point you pick during a rollback will be completely functioning.
⇒ Get Fortect
3. Scan your PC for malware
If Windows Update is not working, you will have to make sure your PC is clean and does not have any kind of malware.
To do so, you can either use the built-in tool, Microsoft Defender or download ESET Internet Security a professional malware scanner.
Whatever you choose, you need to make sure your security programs are up to date in order to keep your PC safe.
4. Install a fresh version of Windows
If nothing works for you, then it is a wise choice to install Windows freshly using the Microsoft 10 Install Drive.
For this option, it is very important that you create a backup of your data on an external drive because this option will erase all of it.
Moreover, the product ID of your license should be saved or should be written in a safe place before reinstalling your Windows.
5. Delete all files from the Software Distribution directory
5.1 Use the Windows Services
- Press Windows + R, enter services.msc, and press Enter or click OK.
- Locate Background Intelligent Transfer Service, right-click it, and choose Stop from the menu.
- Do the same for the Windows Update service.
- After disabling these services go to the following folder inside File Explorer:
C:Windows\SoftwareDistribution
- Select all files in the SoftwareDistribution directory and click on Delete.
- Go back to the Services window and start both Windows Update and Background Intelligent Transfer Services.
After doing that, try to download updates manually and check if the problem is resolved.
If Windows Update is not working on your PC, you might be able to solve the problem simply by deleting files from the SoftwareDistribution directory.
Sometimes files in this directory can become corrupted and that can cause this problem to appear.
5.2 Use Command Prompt
- Type cmd in the Search box and select Run as administrator to start Command Prompt with elevated privileges.
- Enter the following command lines and run them one by one by pressing Enter:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2\catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
If you cannot run Command Prompt as an admin or if it is simply not available for whatever reason, you can also use PowerShell.
6. Change your DNS
- Right-click the network icon in the bottom right corner and choose Open Network and Sharing Center.
- In the left pane, click on Change adapter settings.
- Locate your network connection, right-click it, and choose Properties from the menu.
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click on Properties.
- Select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter 8.8.8.8 as a Preferred DNS server and 8.8.4.4 as Alternate DNS server. Click OK to save changes.
Sometimes, your default DNS might present specific issues such as the server not responding or others that prevent you from using Windows Update.
If Windows Update stopped working, changing your DNS server should solve the issue.
- Fix: Windows Update error code 0x80070003 in Windows 10/11
- Fix: Couldn’t connect to the update service on Windows 10/11
- Fix error code 0x800706be & install Windows updates smoothly
- Fix: Update error 0x8024001e on Windows 10/11 [Easy Guide]
- Fix: Windows Update not showing/missing button on Win 10/11
How to delete Windows 10 updates that won’t install?
- Click the Windows key and select Settings.
- Choose Update & Security.
- In the right section, click on View update history.
- In the new window, choose Uninstall updates.
- From the list that appears, click on the last update and uninstall it.
- After the process has finished, go to Windows Update and check for updates again in order to restart the process.
Tip
As always, file corruption is a potential culprit, so you might want to check your system for signs of deprecation.
We recommend you use a professional utility like Fortect to handle this task automatically, promptly, and most of all hassle-free.
Windows 10 saying you’re not up to date can be problematic, but we’re confident you will be able to get those updates running in no time with our tips.
What can I do if Windows Update is not working on Windows 11?
Windows 11 will automatically check for and install any available updates, helping to keep your computer’s operating system secure and reliable.
However, it is possible that these updates will not install properly, in which case you will see an error related to Windows 11 Windows Update.
The term Windows Update error is a catch-all phrase that refers to a wide variety of glitches, complications, and blunders that prohibit the updating procedure from operating in an orderly fashion. Check out our post on 7 tips to fix the Windows Update in Windows 11.
Moreover, one of the most common errors is 0x80070057 that mostly occurs with Windows 10 but it’s easily moved to other apps, so you will definitely want to fix this as soon as possible.
Besides that, another error you may get when updating your OS is 0x800f081f, this error can easily be fixed by updating your drivers or performing a clean install.
Now, Windows Update errors come in many shapes and sizes. If you ever get stuck, help is no further than a click away.
Windows update not working on Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer? Here are six effective ways to help you out.
| Workable Solutions | Step-by-step Troubleshooting |
|---|---|
| Fix 1. Restart Windows Update Service | The initial method to fix this issue is to restart the Windows Update service. You need to…Full steps |
| Fix 2. Run Windows Update troubleshooter | Windows 10/11 has an in-built troubleshooter to fix any issue related to Windows Update…Full steps |
| Fix 3. Reset Windows Update Registry Keys | In your Windows system, there are chances that the registry keys are corrupted or modified. So, resetting…Full steps |
| Fix 4. Run a DISM and SFC Commands | DISM and SFC can fix corrupted system files that may be the reason for the Windows update not working…Full steps |
| Fix 5. Perform System Restore |
Go to the Start Menu and select Settings. click «Update & Security» and select «View Update History»…Full steps |
| Fix 6. Clean Install Windows 10 or Windows 11 | If the issue is not fixed after applying all the methods, a clean installation of Windows might…Full steps |
Every month Microsoft regularly releases various updates for Windows 10 and Windows 11. Every update enhances the performance of your operating system, including the latest features and different security exposures. When the update notification appears on your computer, you download and install them through the Windows update option.
However, you may experience issues like Windows update not working on Windows 10 or Windows 11. It may lead you to get stuck with different errors that occur during an update, such as Windows update taking forever, showing downloading errors, Windows installation failure, and many more. If you are dealing with such errors, then follow this guide. It will help you to comprehend and fix the most common problems of Windows Update.
Why Is the Windows Update Not Working Windows 10/11
There can be different reasons for the windows update not working Windows 11/10 error. The following are the most prominent ones causing the issue worldwide:
Incorrect registry keys — If you recently used or modified the registry keys, this can be the reason for experiencing errors in the Windows update. It may break the Windows Update service in the background as the registry values are responsible for downloading and installing Windows updates.
Stopped Windows update service — It can be another leading culprit for preventing the system from receiving updates. For some reason, if the Windows Update service is stopped or disabled, the computer may be unable to update the operating system.
Temporary files — If you tried different times to update Windows 10/11 by downloading, you encounter this error, and the Windows updates are not working. The system may be unable to install the updates under the software distribution folder due to corrupted files. These temporary update files are restored in the folder that is causing the error.
Corrupt system files — Another prominent reason is corrupted system files, as each file is crucial to updating Windows. Make sure your system files are not corrupted.
Third-party antivirus — In some case, third-party antivirus or security applications causes issues while updating the Windows operating system. You can uninstall such software to remove any Windows updating errors.
How to Fix Windows Update Not Working in 6 Ways
This section will guide different methods to fix the Windows update not working issue. For some reason, if the update process meets any unexpected error or your system fails to boot, it may lead to data loss and security risks. So, we suggest you restore all important files using a professional data recovery tool.
Secure Your Computer Data Is the Most Important Thing
You can use EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard to recover all the data from your Windows computer. It is a reliable and user-friendly data recovery software to get your data back by following a few simple steps. This upgraded software can help you in any data loss situation, even when your computer won’t turn on.
Although this is an advanced program, it has an intuitive user interface that sets it apart from many others, and even a beginner can operate it effortlessly. It facilitates users to restore deleted files in any format, including images, documents, videos, etc.
You can click here to download this incredible data recovery software and follow the step-by-step guide to help you recover data in Windows 10/11.
Step 1. Run EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard. Choose the drive where you lost files and start scanning. This software allows you to recover lost data from all devices, including HDD, SSD, USB drive, SD card, pen drive, camera, etc.
Step 2. Browse the full scan results. You can choose the file type you need by clicking on the file type filter. EaseUS data recovery software supports 1000+ file types like photos, videos, documents, emails, audio files, and many more.
Step 3. Select the files you want to preview. Click «Recover» and set a storage location to save the recovered data.
Once you successfully recover all the crucial data, let us explain six ways to fix the Windows update not working in Windows 11/10. They are:
- Fix 1. Restart Windows Update Service
- Fix 2. Run Windows Update troubleshooter
- Fix 3. Reset Windows Update Registry Keys
- Fix 4. Run a DISM and SFC Commands
- Fix 5. Perform System Restore
- Fix 6. Clean Install Windows 10 or Windows 11
Fix 1. Restart Windows Update Service
The initial method to fix this issue is to restart the Windows Update service. You need to check if it is running as it is accountable to update the operating system.
Step 1. Use Windows + R key to open the Run Window.
Step 2. Type services.msc and click «OK», or press Enter.
Step 3. In the Services Window, press the W key to navigate the Windows update service.
Step 4. Once you find Windows Update Service, right-click on it and select «Properties».
Step 5. Under the Startup type menu, Select «Automatic».
Step 6. Click «OK», then select «Start» if the service is stopped.
Step 7. Click «Apply» and check if the Windows update is working.
Fix 2. Run Windows Update troubleshooter
Windows 10/11 has an in-built troubleshooter to fix any issue related to Windows Update. If you have no idea what causing the problem, it’s a good way to find out. Simply can run this Windows Update troubleshooter and let fix the Windows 10/11 update not working issue.
Step 1. Go to the Start button and type troubleshoot, click «Troubleshoot settings».
Step 2. Select «Additional troubleshooter».
Step 3. Scroll down the list and select «Windows Update».
Step 4. Click the «Run the troubleshooter» button to launch it.
Wait until the troubleshooting process is finished. It will provide valuable details about the issue and try to fix it. If the Windows update troubleshooter not working and does not fix the issue, head down to the next method.
Fix 3. Reset Windows Update Registry Keys
In your Windows system, there are chances that the registry keys are corrupted or modified. So, resetting the windows update registry keys to their defaults is a convenient way to solve the issue. Here are the steps to do it.
Step 1. Click the link to download the Windows Update Reset file.
Step 2. Once downloaded, open the file and click «Run».
Step 3. Select «Yes» to confirm.
Step 4. Once the process is over, check if the error is fixed.
Fix 4. Run a DISM and SFC Commands
DISM is known as Deployment Image Servicing and Management, and SFC stands for System File Checker. Both these systems work to repair Windows images and system files. If the Windows update is not working due to any corrupted file, the following commands can resolve it. Follow these steps:
Step 1. Go to the Start Menu and type the command prompt in the search bar.
Step 2. Right-click the app and select «Run as Administrator».
Copy and paste the following commands one by one by pressing Enter:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow
Step 3. Once the running process is complete, close Command Prompt and check if the problem is resolved. In case the issue is still there, use the coming method.
Fix 5. Perform System Restore
Step 1. Go to the Start menu and select «Settings».
Step 2. At the bottom, click «Update & Security».
Step 3. Select the «View Update History» option.
Step 4. The next window will show you the list of recently installed updates on your system.
Step 5. Click «Uninstall Updates» at the top.
Step 6. Select the latest update and uninstall it by clicking the «Uninstall» option next to it.
This system restoration process will revert your Windows Operating System into the past and enable it to work suitably. If something goes wrong with system restore, try to undo system restore without data loss.
Fix 6. Clean Install Windows 10 or Windows 11
If the issue is not fixed after applying all the methods, a clean installation of Windows might be a wise decision.
Step 1. Click any link to download a valid version of Windows 10 or Windows 11.
- Notice:
- Please make sure you have a valid product key written in a safe place.
Step 2. Scroll down the page to find the Download Now option under Create Windows 11 Installation Media.
Step 3. Install the new version of Windows 10/11 and enjoy working on your Windows Computer.
Final Verdicts
We hope the guide helps you to comprehend the reasons and solutions to fix the issue of the Windows update not working on Windows 11/10. There are a bunch of methods to resolve this problem and enable you to enjoy operating the latest version of your Windows 10/11.
In addition, If you are at risk of any data loss or your computer won’t start because of an Windows upgrade problem, use EaseUS data recovery software to get data back.
Windows Update Not Working FAQs
If you still have any queries on the Windows update not working, this section will answer some of the Frequently Asked Questions on the issue.
1. How to fix Windows 11 not updating?
You need to fix this issue by installing and updating the system manually. To do so, ensure that your computer is connected to the internet. Follow these steps: Start Menu > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and then click Check for updates.
2. How do I force Windows 11 to update?
The most recent version of Windows 11 is 22H2, also known as the Windows 11 2022 Update. To check for Windows 11 updates on your computer, go to the Start Menu, and select Settings. Open Windows Update, and then click Check for updates. If updates are available, you can choose to install them. In addition, you can also see the specific hardware requirements to update your Windows 10 to Windows 11.
3. How to delete Windows 10 updates that won’t install?
Corrupted Windows Updates are one of the possible reasons to prevent you from installing new updates. You can delete such Windows 10 updates in two ways:
1) In the search bar, type Disk Cleanup and pick the first option from the results list. Under Files to delete, choose the file types to delete, and click OK.
2) Click this link to download and run the Windows update troubleshooter to fix the issue effortlessly.
4. How to fix Windows Update not working on Windows 11?
- Reset Windows update registry keys
- Check the Windows update utility manually.
- Keep all services about Windows update running.
- Uninstall third-party security software.
- Use Windows update troubleshooter.
В этой инструкции о том, как исправить большинство типичных ошибок обновления Windows 11 или Windows 10, 8.1 и Windows 7 несколькими способами: путем использования утилиты с сайта Майкрософт, вручную в командной строке или с помощью простого скрипта, который полностью сбрасывает и очищает настройки Центра обновлений и другими методами.
С помощью описанных ниже методов можно исправить большинство ошибок, когда обновления в Центре обновлений не скачиваются или сообщается, что произошли ошибки при установке обновления. Дополнительную информацию по возможным решениям можно найти в конце руководства.
Использование средства устранения неполадок обновлений в Windows 11 и Windows 10
В Windows предусмотрено встроенное средство устранения неполадок при установке обновлений, это же средство можно скачать и с официального сайта Майкрософт.
При возникновении проблем с обновлениями рекомендую начать именно с этого варианта: он не самый результативный, но самый простой и безопасный:
- В Windows 11 зайдите в Параметры — Система — Устранение неполадок — Другие средства устранения неполадок — Центр обновления Windows и нажмите кнопку «Запуск».
- В Windows 10 средство устранения неполадок находится в Параметры — Обновление и безопасность — Устранение неполадок — Дополнительные средства устранения неполадок — Центр обновления Windows.
- Если доступа к Параметрам нет, вы можете скачать средство устранения неполадок обновлений Windows с официального сайта https://aka.ms/wudiag и запустить файл.
При использовании инструмента «Диагностики и предотвращения неполадок на компьютере» будет автоматически выполнен поиск возможных проблем со службами, отвечающих за установку обновлений и сброс некоторых параметров Центра обновлений.
После выполнения проверки и устранения неполадок можно попробовать установить обновления снова.
Очистка кэша обновлений Windows вручную
Этот способ срабатывает для большого количества ошибок при скачивании и установке обновлений в Windows 11, Windows 10 и Windows 8.1. Порядок действий следующий:
- Запустите командную строку от имени администратора. Для этого можно использовать поиск на панели задач: начните вводить «Командная строка», нажмите правой кнопкой мыши по результату и выберите пункт «Запуск от имени администратора».
- По порядку введите следующие команды, нажимая Enter после каждой:
net stop wuauserv net stop cryptSvc net stop bits net stop msiserver ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old net start wuauserv net start cryptSvc net start bits net start msiserver
- Закройте командную строку и попробуйте повторить поиск, скачивание и установку обновлений через Центр обновлений. Если проблема была решена, удалите папки catroot2.old в C:\Windows\System32 и SoftwareDistribution.old в C:\Windows.
Утилита Reset Windows Update Tool
Ранее на сайте Microsoft TechNet была доступна специальная утилита для полного сброса параметров центра обновлений Windows 10, 8.1 и Windows 7 — Reset Windows Update Tool, выполняющая полный набор действий, каждое из которых направлено на исправление различных моментов, способных мешать скачиванию и установке обновлений через Центр обновлений. Сейчас официальный сайт инструмента изменился, но эффективность — нет.Перед использованием утилиты рекомендую создать точку восстановления системы. Следующие шаги будут выглядеть следующим образом:
- Скачайте Reset Windows Update Tool в нужной разрядности с сайта https://wureset.com/downloads
- После установки, запустите Reset Windows Update Tool от имени администратора (правый клик — запуск от имени администратора) и выберите нужный язык, русский в наличии, но в моем случае отображается в неправильной кодировке, поэтому далее показаны действия на английском языке.
- Вам будет предложено согласиться с тем, что гарантий исправной работы утилиты не дается и ввести «Y», если вы согласны.
- Вы увидите меню, в котором можно выбрать, какие действия следует выполнить для исправления работы центра обновлений. Рекомендую следующий порядок: 2, 3, 6, 11, 12, 13 с последующей перезагрузкой компьютера.
Полный список доступных опций в утилите текущей версии:
- Открыть параметры защиты системы.
- Сброс компонентов Центра обновлений Windows.
- Удаление временных файлов.
- Открыть параметры Internet Explorer.
- Запуск chkdsk на системном разделе (проверка диска на ошибки).
- Запуск проверки целостности системных файлов.
- Проверка целостности хранилища компонентов.
- Проверка образа на наличие отметки «поврежденный».
- Автоматическое восстановление хранилища компонентов с помощью dism.exe
- Очистка устаревших компонентов.
- Удаление записей реестра с ошибками.
- Сброс и исправление параметров Winsock.
- Принудительное обновление локальных групповых политик.
- Запуск поиска обновлений Windows.
- Поиск ключа продукта Windows.
- Поиск других локальных исправлений (открывает устранение неполадок Windows).
- Поиск дополнительных способов исправления онлайн (открывает справку на сайте Майкрософт в браузере).
- Перезапуск ПК.
Подробно об использовании утилиты в отдельной статье: Как исправить ошибки обновлений с помощью Reset Windows Update Tool.
Сброс центра обновлений Windows для исправления ошибок с помощью bat-файла
Для того, чтобы исправить многие ошибки при установке и загрузке обновлений Windows 10, 8.1 и Windows 7, бывает достаточно полностью сбросить параметры центра обновлений. Я покажу, как сделать это автоматически. В дополнение к сбросу, предложенный скрипт запустит необходимую службу, если вы получаете сообщение о том, что Центр обновления не запущен.
Кратко о том, что происходит при выполнении нижеследующих команд:
- Останавливаются службы: Центр обновления Windows, Фоновая интеллектуальная служба передачи BITS, Службы криптографии.
- Служебные папки центра обновления catroot2, SoftwareDistribution, downloader переименовываются в catroot2.old и т.д. (которые, если что-то пошло не так, можно использовать как резервные копии).
- Все ранее остановленные службы снова запускаются.
Для того, чтобы использовать скрипт, откройте блокнот Windows и скопируйте в него команды, представленные ниже. После этого сохраните файл с расширением .bat — это и будет сценарий для остановки, сброса и перезапуска Центра обновлений Windows (подробнее: Как создать BAT-файл).
@ECHO OFF echo Sbros Windows Update echo. PAUSE echo. attrib -h -r -s %windir%\system32\catroot2 attrib -h -r -s %windir%\system32\catroot2\*.* net stop wuauserv net stop CryptSvc net stop BITS ren %windir%\system32\catroot2 catroot2.old ren %windir%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old ren "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\application data\Microsoft\Network\downloader" downloader.old net Start BITS net start CryptSvc net start wuauserv echo. echo Gotovo echo. PAUSE
После того, как файл создан, кликните по нему правой кнопкой мыши и выберите пункт «Запуск от имени администратора», вам будет предложено нажать любую клавишу для начала, после чего по порядку будут выполнены все необходимые действия (еще раз нажимаем любую клавишу и закрываем командную строку).
И, наконец, обязательно перезагрузите компьютер. Сразу после перезагрузки снова зайдите в Центр обновления и посмотрите, исчезли ли ошибки при поиске, скачивании и установке обновлений Windows.
На сайте Майкрософт также приводятся шаги для выполнения всех необходимых действий по сбросу вручную: Сброс центра обновлений Windows вручную.
Скачивание и установка обновлений вручную
Если ошибки возникают при установке какого-то одного обновления, вы можете попробовать вручную скачать его из каталога центра обновления Майкрософт:
- Перейдите на страницу https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Home.aspx
- В поле поиска на странице введите номер обновления, отображаемый в центре обновлений в формате: KB1234567
- Посмотрите, есть ли в результатах поиска доступное для загрузки обновление с этим номером для вашей версии операционной системы. При наличии — скачайте и установите его.
Быстрая переустановка системы с исправлением системных файлов и параметров, но без удаления программ и данных
Если простые способы не помогают, вы можете выполнить быструю переустановку системы с исправлением всех системных файлов и параметров, при этом все ваши программы и данные останутся на месте. Способ подходит для Windows 11 и Windows 10:
- Если у вас имеется ISO-файл с образом текущей ОС, просто смонтируйте его в системе и запустите файл setup.exe, а затем пройдите все этапы установки.
- Если файла образа нет, то для Windows 11 — скачайте оригинальный ISO Windows 11, смонтируйте в системе и запустите файл setup.exe с него. Для Windows 10 — зайдите на страницу https://www.microsoft.com/ru-ru/software-download/windows10 и нажмите кнопку «Скачать средство сейчас». Запустите скачанную программу и на экране «Что вы хотите сделать?» нажмите «Обновить этот компьютер сейчас», далее пройдите все необходимые шаги для установки системы.
К сожалению, не все возможные ошибки обновления Windows можно решить вышеописанным способом (хотя и многие). Если способ вам не помог, то обратите внимание на следующие возможные варианты:
- Попробуйте использовать сторонние программы управления обновлениями Windows для их загрузки и установки.
- Если ранее для отключения обновлений вы использовали какую-то стороннюю программу, попробуйте с помощью неё же вновь включить их.
- Если вы использовали какие-то утилиты для отключения слежки Windows 10, они могли заблокировать доступ к серверам Майкрософт, например, в файле hosts и брандмауэре.
- При наличии сторонних антивирусов на компьютере, попробуйте отключить антивирус и проверить, решило ли это проблему.
- Попробуйте установить DNS 8.8.8.8 и 8.8.4.4 в параметры Интернет-соединения. О том как это сделать: Как изменить адрес DNS-сервера в Windows.
- Отсутствие свободного места (или малое его количество) на системном разделе жесткого диска или SSD также может приводить к ошибкам при скачивании и установке обновлений. Здесь может быть полезным: Как очистить диск C от ненужных файлов.
- Проверьте, запущены ли все необходимые службы (их список приводился ранее).
- Выполните поиск в Интернете по сообщаемому коду ошибки, чтобы узнать о возможных причинах появления ошибки.
- Выполните проверку и восстановление целостности системных файлов Windows. Подробные инструкции: для Windows 11 и для Windows 10.
- Использование VPN или прокси также может влиять на возможность скачивания и установки обновлений.
- Попробуйте выполнить чистую загрузку Windows. Если при чистой загрузке ошибки пропадают, можно сделать вывод, что ошибки вызваны каким-либо сторонним ПО на компьютере.
На самом деле, разных причин, по которым не ищутся, не загружаются и не устанавливаются обновления, может быть множество, но, по моему опыту, представленная информация сможет помочь в большинстве случаев.
On Windows 11, Microsoft proactively releases updates to patch security vulnerabilities, improve performance, and introduce new features. Although they usually apply without issues, the system may sometimes encounter problems with Windows Update.
For instance, you may notice that Windows Update may take a very long time to scan and download updates, errors during the installation, and many other problems.
Whatever the problem, you can use several troubleshooting steps to resolve any issue on Windows Update, including basic and advanced methods.
This guide will walk you through the steps to the different methods you can use to resolve Windows Update problems as you try to install updates on Windows 11.
How to fix common problems updating Windows 11
If Windows Update doesn’t seem to work, you can try a few troubleshooting steps before using more advanced methods. For example, you can restart the computer, check the internet connection, pause and restart updates, and free up space.
Restart computer
To restart the computer to fix update issues, use these steps:
- Open Start.
- Check the Power button.
- Select the Restart option.
Once you complete the steps, open the Windows Update settings again and try to update one more time.
Check network
To confirm the device has an active internet connection, use these steps:
- Open Start.
- Search for Command Prompt and click the top result to open the app.
- Type the following command to confirm the computer has internet connectivity and press Enter: ping google.com
- Confirm packet loss.
Once you complete the steps, you probably have an internet connection problem if the command output has more than two timeouts.
If the device has a problem with the internet connection, many factors could be the cause. For instance, it could be a problem with the internet service provider (ISP), wireless connection, network misconfiguration, adapter driver, network cable, network port, switch, access point, router, etc. However, resetting the network adapter settings will usually resolve the most common problems.
You can reset the network adapters on Windows 11 by going to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset, clicking the Reset now button, and clicking the Yes button.
After the computer is restarted, you can try updating it one more time.
Pause updates
Sometimes, if the issue is downloading an update, pausing and resuming Windows Update can help to fix the problem.
To pause and resume updates on Windows 11, use these steps:
- Open Settings.
- Click on Windows Update.
- Under the «More options» section, click the «Pause for 1 week» button.
- Restart your computer.
- Open Settings one more time.
- Click on Windows Update.
- Click the Resume updates button.
Once you complete the steps, Windows Update should start working again.
Free up space
If the main installation drive doesn’t have enough space, you may encounter different errors trying to update the system. In this case, you can use features like «Temporary files» to reclaim space to allow the system to process updates without problems.
To free up space to install updates on Windows 11, use these steps:
- Open Settings.
- Click on System.
- Click the Storage page from the right side.
- Click the Temporary files setting.
- Check the items to delete to free up space.
- Quick note: If you select the Downloads item, you will erase any content in the folder. As a result, you should back up any important files in this location before proceeding.
- Click the Remove files button.
Once you complete the steps, the system should have more space to install updates successfully.
If the device still doesn’t have enough space, you can use this guide that includes 11 ways to free up space on Windows 11.
How to fix update problems with troubleshooter
On Windows 11, you can also use the Windows Update troubleshooter to diagnose and fix common problems during updates.
To use the troubleshooter feature to resolve Windows Update issues, use these steps:
- Open Settings.
- Click on System.
- Click the Troubleshoot page from the left side.
- Under the «Options» section, click the Other troubleshooters setting.
- Under the «Most frequent» section, click the Run button for the «Windows Update» setting.
- Click the Close button.
After you complete the steps, the troubleshooter will diagnose and resolve the problem that prevents the system from applying the latest update of Windows 11.
How to fix update problems with manual installation
Sometimes, if an automatic update fails, manually downloading and installing the most recent update can fix the problem.
To download quality updates on Windows 11 manually, use these steps:
- Open Windows Update page.
- Click on the latest version of Windows 11.
- Select the update release and confirm the update number — for example, KB5015814.
- Open Microsoft Update Catalog page.
- Search for the update — for example, KB5015814.
- Click the Download button.
- Click the .msu download link.
- Double-click the .msu file to install the Windows 11 update.
- Restart the computer (if applicable).
Once you complete the steps, the latest update will install on Windows 11, hopefully fixing the problem with Windows Update.
How to fix update problems with setup repair
The problem with the Windows Update service can also happen due to a corrupted file system. If this is the case, you may be able to use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) and System File Checker (SFC) command-line tools to restore the update system to a working state.
To repair the Windows 11 installation to fix issues with the update service, use these steps:
- Open Start.
- Search for Command Prompt, right-click the top result, and select the Run as administrator option.
- Type the following command to repair the system image and press Enter: dism /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
- Type the following command to repair the installation files and press Enter: sfc /scannow
After completing the steps, use the Windows Update settings one more time.
How to fix update problems with hiding tool
Sometimes, the problem could be an unknown issue with a specific patch. If you suspect the issue is the update and not the current setup, you should skip the update until the next release using the «Show or hide updates» tool.
To hide a specific update on Windows 11, use these steps:
- Click to download the «Show or hide updates» troubleshooter from Microsoft.
- Save the file on your computer.
- Double-click the wsuhowhide.diagcab file.
- Click the Next button.
- Click the Hide updates option.
- Select the update causing the problem.
- Click the Next button.
- Click the Close button.
Once you complete the steps, the specified update will no longer be offered for download, resolving errors trying to install a particular release. However, when the next maintenance update becomes available, it will download and install automatically.
How to fix update problems with clean installation
If you have tried all the above instructions and the device still has problems with Windows Update, you may be able to get updates working by performing a clean installation of Windows 11 as a last resort.
To perform a clean install of Windows 11, use these steps:
- Open Microsoft Support website.
- Under the «Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO)» section, select the Windows 11 option.
- Click the Download button.
- Select the language of the installation.
- Click the Confirm button.
- Click the Download button to save the ISO file on the computer.
- Right-click the ISO file and select the Mount option. (You can also double-click the file to mount it.)
- Select the newly mounted drive from the left navigation pane.
- Double-click the setup.exe file to begin the installation.
- Click the Next button.
- Click the Accept button to agree to the terms.
- Click the Change what to keep option.
- Select the Nothing option.
- Click the Next button.
- Click the Install button.
After completing the steps, you will have to continue with the out-of-box experience (OOBE) to finish setting up the installation. Once on the desktop, you can try installing updates one more time.
You can also refer to this guide with all the steps to perform a clean install of Windows 11.
More resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
- Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
- Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
Mauro Huculak is technical writer for WindowsCentral.com. His primary focus is to write comprehensive how-tos to help users get the most out of Windows 10 and its many related technologies. He has an IT background with professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA, and he’s a recognized member of the Microsoft MVP community.