This article discusses how an administrator can integrate Windows software updates (for example, security updates, critical updates, or hotfixes) that use Update.exe into their Windows installation source files.

Support for Windows 10 has ended on October 14, 2025. 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.

Provides links to the uninstall tools and directions for many security programs.

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.

Use this tool to find and remove specific prevalent threats and reverse the changes that they made (see Covered malware families). For comprehensive malware detection and removal, consider using Windows Defender Offline or Microsoft Safety Scanner.

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. Note: Use these steps for Windows programs.

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

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

There are different ways to remove apps and programs, so if you can't find the one you're looking for, you can try another location. Note that some apps and programs are built into Windows and can't be uninstalled. You can try to repair a program first, if it's just not running correctly.