Windows 11 Windows 10
In Windows 11, you decidewhen 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 yourinstallation 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:
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Before trying any of the solutions below, make sure youback up your personal files. You can use File History to back up your files to another drive, 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.
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You can also back up your files with OneDrive. For more info, go to Back up your Documents, Pictures, and Desktop folders with OneDrive .
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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.
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In the search box on the taskbar, type device manager , then select Device Manager from the list of results.
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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.
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Select Action , and then choose either Update driver or Uninstall to correct the errors.
(Video) Fix All Windows Update Error Problems in Windows 11/10 (2023)
Common troubleshooting questions
If you are receiving an error message with a specific error code, try running the Windows Update Troubleshooter . If that doesn't resolve the issue, see Fix Windows Update errors and follow the instructions to help resolve common update issues.
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.
Windows 11 is the most secure Windows ever, and we recommend you stay updated to protect your PC from security risks and to keep it running smoothly. However, you can temporarily pause updates as well as schedule a restart to install updates at a time that's convenient for you.
Learn how to temporarily pause updates
Find out how to schedule a restart to install updates at a convenient time
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 .
If you're having trouble finding your files after an upgrade, see Find lost files after the upgrade to Windows 10 or 11 for other things to try.
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.
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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
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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
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In the search box on the taskbar, type command prompt , then select Run as administrator from the list of options.
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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.
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Try running the Windows Update again.
Learn how to repair a Windows image
Go to the software download page and select Download tool now todownload the clean installation tool. Make sure to carefully read the notes on the software download page before using the tool.
In Windows 10, you decidewhen 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 yourinstallation 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 youback up your personal files. You can use File History to back up your files to another drive, 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
If you are receiving an error message with a specific error code, try running the Windows Update Troubleshooter . If that doesn't resolve the issue, see Fix Windows Update errors and follow the instructions to help resolve common update issues.
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.
Windows 10 is the most secure Windows ever, and we recommend you stay updated to protect your PC from security risks and to keep it running smoothly. However, you can temporarily pause updates as well as schedule a restart to install updates at a time that's convenient for you.
Learn how to temporarily pause updates
Find out how to schedule a restart to install updates at a convenient time
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 .
If you're having trouble finding your files after an upgrade, see Find lost files after the upgrade to Windows 10 or 11 for other things to try.
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 todownload 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
FAQs
How do I fix Windows Update troubleshoot? ›
If you get an error code while downloading and installing Windows updates, the Update Troubleshooter can help resolve the problem. Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
What would cause Microsoft Windows Update to fail? ›Corrupt or missing system files.
System files are crucial to make sure everything works on your device. There's a possibility that your system files were corrupted or deleted recently, which causes Windows Update to fail.
- Restart the Computer and Run Windows Update Again. ...
- Check for Driver or Hardware Conflict. ...
- Vacate Space on Your Drive. ...
- Try the Windows Update Troubleshooter Tool. ...
- Stop Updates. ...
- Erase Software Distribution Log. ...
- Download the Latest Feature Update from Microsoft. ...
- Run the System File Checker (SFC) Scan.
Using Ctrl-Alt-Delete to fix a stuck Windows 10 update
In order to check this, you will need to boot Windows 10 in Safe Mode - which will disable all other non-essential software. If your system has frozen: Turn off your computer - if your system has frozen, hold your PC's power button down for around seven seconds.
Way 1: Clear Windows Update Cache via File Explorer
Step 1: Type File Explorer in the Search box to open it. Step 2: Find and right-click Local Disk (C) to choose Properties. Step 3: Then, click Disk Clean-up. After that, click the Clean up system files option.
It can be due to different reasons, like Windows Update service issues, corrupted system files, and outdated drivers. It becomes easy to apply the different fixes mentioned above. All you need to do is run a Windows update troubleshooter, disk space cleaning, or run a system scan.
How do I force Windows Update? ›- Type cmd in the search box, choose Run as administrator, and click Yes to continue.
- Type wuauclt.exe /updatenow and hit Enter.
- This command will force Windows Update to check for updates and start downloading.
If you've been trying to install Windows 10 and have got the message that "Windows 10 installation has failed," there's a good chance that your boot configuration data (BCD) is corrupted. Windows use BCD to store information about the boot process, and if it's corrupted, it can cause all sorts of problems.
What are the problems with the latest Windows 10 update 2023? ›Issues in KB5027215 – June 2023 update for Windows 10
One of the most common complaints is that Windows Update takes over half an hour to install the patch, which many consider excessive. This problem seems particularly prevalent following the Windows 10 June 2023 Update, released on June 13.
What would cause a Microsoft Windows update to fail? A required prior update was not installed. 11. A user calls the help desk reporting that a laptop is not performing as expected.
Why does my Windows 11 update keep failing? ›
There are several reasons your Windows 11 update fails to install. Some of these include a faulty internet connection, a minor system glitch, an active VPN, insufficient disk space, and corrupt Windows system files. Sometimes, it's one of these causes that creates the problem.