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.
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.
-
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.
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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
What do I do if Windows update troubleshooter is not working? ›
- Fix 1. Run SFC & DISM Scan.
- Fix 2. Clear DNS Cache.
- Fix 3. Change the Local Group Policy settings.
- Fix 4. Update Windows to the latest version.
- Fix 5. Perform a System Restore.
- Fix 6. Reset PC.
The Windows Update Troubleshooter can also get stuck in a loop if system files have gotten corrupted. Fortunately, you can resolve this issue by running the SFC scan. It scans, repairs, and replaces these damaged files automatically.
Why is Windows update troubleshooter taking so long? ›If Windows Update Troubleshooter is taking forever & is stuck on resolving problems or at checking for pending restart, here are some suggestions that will help you: Restart system and check connection. Run System File Checker. Enable Cryptographic Service.
What could be the possible reasons for Windows Cannot currently check for updates? ›Windows Update error “Windows update cannot currently check for updates because the service is not running. You may need to restart your computer” probably occurs when Windows temporary update folder (SoftwareDistribution folder) is corrupted.
How do I manually run Windows Update troubleshooter? ›- Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot, or select the Find troubleshooters shortcut at the end of this topic.
- Select the type of troubleshooting you want to do, then select Run the troubleshooter.
- Allow the troubleshooter to run and then answer any questions on the screen.
- Open Settings on Windows 10.
- Click on Update & Security.
- Click on Troubleshoot.
- Click the “Additional troubleshooters” option.
- Under the “Get up and running” section, select the Windows Update option.
If you're using an external device, you can try disconnecting and reconnecting it. If that doesn't work, try using the device on another system. And if that doesn't work, you can perform a more thorough investigation using the Windows Device Manager.
How do I clear Windows update cache? ›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.
If you've recently installed a Windows update and you are having a problem, here's how to uninstall the update to try to resolve the issue: Select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history > Uninstall updates.
What happens if you turn off your computer while it's updating? ›What Happens If You Turn Computer Off During Update? If you switch off your device while it's downloading updates, the process immediately stops but can be resumed later. However, if the abrupt shutdown corrupts the already downloaded files, you will have to restart the process.
Has Windows troubleshooter ever worked? ›
Troubleshooter will work in some cases and normally, in those cases user will see like Windows running diagnose and in background it is running some commands and attempt to fix issue and repair issue and system will boot up. In such a case, user normally won't even report them.
Can I turn off my PC during Windows update? ›During a Windows update, if you force shut down your system, you may witness these situations while starting the PC next time: Windows will normally start once the CBS rolls back the entire installation and restores your system to its previous state before updating. Windows will crash and fail to start.
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.
- Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
- Click on "Update & Security."
- Click on "Troubleshoot" in the left-hand menu.
- Scroll down and click on "Windows Update" under "Get up and running."
- Click on "Run the troubleshooter" and follow the prompts.
Some junk files in the system drive are likely to interfere with the process of troubleshooting and trigger the “Windows Online Troubleshooting service is disabled” error message. So, it might helpful to cleanup junk files for the system.
How do I fix Windows 11 troubleshooter? ›- Open Settings (Win+I).
- Click/tap on System on the left side, and click/tap on Troubleshoot on the right side. ( ...
- Click/tap on Other troubleshooters. ( ...
- Click/tap on Run for the troubleshooter you want to use. (
The Advanced Boot Options screen lets you start Windows in advanced troubleshooting modes. You can access the menu by turning on your computer and pressing the F8 key before Windows starts. Some options, such as safe mode, start Windows in a limited state, where only the bare essentials are started.