How to Fix Windows Update When It’s Stuck or Failing (Step-by-Step Guide)
Windows Updates are essential for keeping your PC secure and running smoothly. But sometimes, they get stuck or fail, causing frustration and leaving your system vulnerable. If you’re dealing with a Windows Update that just won’t finish or keeps throwing errors, this guide will walk you through simple, effective steps to fix it.
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Updates require a stable internet connection. Make sure you’re connected and that your Wi-Fi or Ethernet is working correctly. Try loading a webpage or streaming a video to confirm your connection.
Insert screenshot of Wi-Fi icon or network status
2. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in troubleshooter designed to detect and fix common update issues.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Click Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Windows Update and then Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the prompts and restart your PC if needed.
Insert screenshot of the Troubleshoot page highlighting Windows Update troubleshooter
3. Clear the Windows Update Cache
Sometimes corrupted files in the update cache cause problems.
- Press
Win + R, typeservices.msc, and press Enter. - Find Windows Update service, right-click, and select Stop.
- Open File Explorer and navigate to
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution. - Delete all files and folders inside
SoftwareDistribution. - Go back to Services, right-click Windows Update, and select Start.
- Try updating again.
Insert screenshot of SoftwareDistribution folder
4. Reset Windows Update Components
Resetting update components can fix deeper issues.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
Right-click Start > Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows Terminal (Admin). - Run these commands one by one:
- batchCopy
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 - Restart your pc
Insert screenshot of Command Prompt running commands
5. Check Disk Space
Insufficient disk space can halt updates.
- Open Settings > System > Storage.
- Make sure you have at least 10 GB free on your system drive (usually C:).
- Delete unnecessary files or use Disk Cleanup.
Insert screenshot of Storage settings
6. Manually Install Updates
If automatic update fails, try manual installation:
- Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.
- Search for the specific update code (e.g., KB5005565).
- Download and install it manually.
Insert screenshot of Microsoft Update Catalog
7. When to Seek Professional Help
If none of the above works or you encounter critical errors, it might be time to consult a technician. Avoid risky registry edits or system restores unless you’re confident.
Conclusion
Windows Update issues are frustrating but fixable. By following these steps, you can usually get your system up to date without hassle. If you have questions or success stories, drop a comment below and join the AnswerPunk community!