Learn how to check for the latest Windows Updates and install them to keep your device running smoothly and securely.

After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates from Windows Update, technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10. Your PC will still work, but we recommend moving to Windows 11. Learn more.

Windows Update is an essential component of Windows 11, ensuring your system remains secure, stable, and up-to-date with the latest features. However, issues can occasionally arise, preventing updates from installing. This guide provides detailed steps to troubleshoot and resolve Windows Update problems effectively.

To work around this issue, use the appropriate method. For more information about what to do if Microsoft Update offers Office updates for Office programs that are not installed, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

To check for updates manually, select Start > Settings > Windows Update . Check for updates. If other questions come up when you update Windows 11, here are some other areas that might interest you: If you're trying to activate Windows, see Activate Windows for more info.

Learn how to uninstall a Windows update, if for example that update is causing your system to have errors or other problems.

Learn how to run Windows Update Troubleshooter to resolve errors downloading or installing Windows updates.

On the left side of this page, you’ll find a list of all the updates released for this version of Windows. You can also find more information about releases and any known issues. Installing the most recent update ensures that you also get any previous updates you might have missed, including any important security fixes.

Using this tool will reinstall the current version of Windows on your device. This tool preserves all your apps, documents, and settings. Make sure to keep your PC connected to a power source and the internet during reinstallation. The reinstall will take you to the Windows Update page in Settings.

If you don’t want to wait for an automatic update, or if you want to check for quality updates (which are more frequent and include small fixes and security updates), you can update Windows 11 yourself. If you’re an IT professional, you can defer updates. Go to Windows 11 servicing options.