Updating Windows is by and large a hassle-free affair – so long as you have taken care of all the key aspects. However, there are times when it does face unexpected snags and throws weird errors. For this very reason, I’d like to share some of the best tips and tricks to fix Windows update errors on Windows 11. Read on…
Fix Windows Update Errors in Windows 11
What are the major hurdles that tend to block the software update on a Windows device? From what I can tell, it crops up due to many roadblocks such as corrupted system files, network issues, and even conflicts with third-party software.
1. Restart Your PC
To kickstart this detailed guide on the right note, I’d recommend you go with a simple restart as it’s got the ability to fix temporary glitches – with aplomb.
- On your PC, click the Start menu, select Power, and choose Restart.
- Once your PC restarts, try updating Windows again.
2. Check Your Internet Connection
As we all know a slow or unstable internet connection can prevent updates from downloading, so be sure to check your internet connection and fix it.
- To get going, head over to the Action Center > go to the Wi-Fi menu and turn it off and back on.
- Should the problem persist, restart your router and reconnect to Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Run the Network Troubleshooter
If your internet connection still refuses to come back on track, run the network troubleshooter, as it’s exceptionally effective in resolving internet issues.
- On your PC, launch Settings (Win+I) > click on the System tab > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Internet Connections.
3. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
The built-in Windows Update troubleshooter can let you detect and fix update-related issues like a pro. Therefore, it would be apt to bring this troubleshooter into action to nab the culprits and eliminate them.
- To get it done, head straight to the Settings app on your PC > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Now, click Run next to Windows Update and follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Free Up Disk Space
It goes without saying that Windows updates require a ton of free storage space. That means if your PC is clogged up for space or doesn’t have enough room for the latest
- Open Settings > System > Storage and remove unnecessary files.
- Use Storage Sense to clean temporary files.
5. Restart Windows Update Services
Restarting essential services can resolve update failures.
- Open Run (
Win + R), typeservices.msc, and press Enter. - Find Windows Update, Background Intelligent Transfer Service, and Cryptographic Services.
- Right-click each service and select Restart.
6. Run SFC and DISM Commands
Corrupted system files can prevent updates from installing.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:
sfc /scannow
- If the issue persists, run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
7. Reset Windows Update Components
Manually resetting update components can fix stuck updates.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator and enter the following commands one by one:
net stop wuauserv net stop bitsnet stop cryptsvcren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.oldren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.oldnet start wuauservnet start bitsnet start cryptsvc- Restart your PC and try updating again.
8. Delete Pending Windows Update Files
Clearing the update cache can fix failed installations.
- Go to
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Downloadand delete all files inside. - Restart your PC and check for updates again.
9. Disable Third-Party Antivirus
Security software can sometimes interfere with Windows updates.
- Temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall, then try updating Windows.
- If successful, add Windows Update to the antivirus exceptions list.
10. Use Windows Update Assistant
If updates fail repeatedly, use the official Windows Update Assistant.
- Download it from Microsoft’s website and follow the instructions to install updates manually.
11. Install Updates Manually
You can manually download and install Windows updates.
- Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog (https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/).
- Search for the update using the KB number, download the file, and install it.
12. Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot can prevent software conflicts during updates.
- Open Run (
Win + R), typemsconfig, and press Enter. - Navigate to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
- After that, restart your PC and check for updates.
13. Check Windows Update Logs
If you’re still facing issues, check the update logs for errors.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:sqlCopyEdit
Get-WindowsUpdateLog - Analyze the log file (
WindowsUpdate.log) to identify specific issues.
14. Reset Your PC
If nothing works, resetting Windows can fix persistent update errors.
- Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
- Now, click Reset this PC.
- Choose Keep my files to reinstall Windows without losing personal data.
There you have it! These solutions should help you fix Windows Update errors on Windows 11. If the problem persists, consider using the Microsoft Support tool or reinstalling Windows. Let us know which method has helped you sort out the vexing update errors on your PC.
