When critical Windows system files are missing or corrupted, your operating system may begin to malfunction. Common symptoms include Windows features not working properly, system errors, or Windows becoming unresponsive or freezing.

To resolve this problem, try to identify and remove deceptive software from your computer. To do this, use one or all the following methods. Note Because there are several versions of Microsoft Windows, the following steps may be different on your computer. If they are, see your product documentation to complete these steps.

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.

Microsoft is working on a resolution to prevent this issue and will provide an update in an upcoming release.

Driver updates for most hardware devices in Windows are automatically downloaded and installed through Windows Update. Windows Update updates drivers for various hardware including network adapters, printers, scanners, and video cards. Drivers updated through Windows Update are normally recent and up to date.

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.

Update process is stuck due to an incomplete update or connection issue. 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.

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

When this update is installed, Windows may attempt to download and install feature updates to your device if it is approaching or has reached the end of support for your currently installed Windows version. Feature updates offer new functionality and help keep your device secure.

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