Troubleshoot problems updating Windows

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. 

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

If you are using a Windows 11 device, start by running the automated Windows Update troubleshooter in the Get Help app. It will automatically run diagnostics and attempt to fix most of the problems. If you are using an older version of Windows or a mobile device, please skip to General troubleshooting steps.

If the troubleshooter in Get Help app is unable to resolve your issue, select your specific problem from the Most common Windows Update problems section below and follow the provided steps. If your issue is not listed, try the possible solutions listed.

General troubleshooting

Please try the following general troubleshooting steps to help solve the Windows update problem.

Step 1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

Describe your update problem and step through troubleshooting solutions. 

1. Select Start > Settings > System.
2. Select Troubleshoot and choose Other troubleshooters.
3. Locate Windows Update and select Run.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Step 2: Verify that your device is properly plugged in and connected to the Internet

Make sure that your device is properly plugged into a power source and connected to the internet. A stable internet connection is crucial for downloading and installing updates. Follow these steps to ensure connectivity:

1. Select Start > Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
2. Verify your network status. If disconnected, reconnect to your Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.

 For more information, see Fix Wi-Fi connection issues in Windows.

Step 3. Make sure you have Administrator access

Some updates require administrator access. If your account doesn't have administrator access, see how to 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.

Step 4. Disconnect external hardware

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 step.

Step 5. Clear the Windows Update Cache

Corrupt update files in the cache can cause errors. Clear the cache by following these steps:

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Locate the Windows Update service, right-click it, and select Stop.
3. Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution.
4. Delete all files and folders inside this directory.
5. Go back to the Services window, right-click Windows Update, and select Start.

Step 6. Verify Date and Time settings

Incorrect date and time settings can interfere with Windows Update:

1. Select Start > Settings > Time & language. 
2. Select Date & time and enable Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically.
3. If needed, select Sync now under Additional settings.

Step 7. Update third-party drivers

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

Step 8. Free up some space so you can run updates

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.

Step 9. Run Windows Update again

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.

Step 10. Restart to apply installed updates

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.

Most common Windows Update problems

Below, you will find the most common Windows update problems users have experienced, along with the error codes and the steps to troubleshoot them.

Error codes and their potential causes

The following list outlines error codes and potential causes associated with Windows Update. Selectthe error code to view the detailed troubleshooting steps to resolve.

0x8007000d: Issue with Windows Update files or corruption in the update cache

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:

1. Select Start > Settings > System.
2. Select Troubleshoot and choose Other troubleshooters.
3. Locate Windows Update and select Run.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Clear the Windows Update cache:

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Locate the Windows Update service, right-click it, and select Stop.
3. Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution.
4. Delete all files and folders inside this directory.
5. Go back to the Services window, right-click Windows Update, and select Start.

0x800705b4: Update took too long to install or was interrupted

Check your Internet connection:

1. Select Start > Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
2. Verify your network status. If disconnected, reconnect to your Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.

Disable Antivirus/Firewall: Temporarily disable any antivirus or firewall that might be blocking the update.

1. Open the antivirus or firewall application from the Start menu.
2. Look for an option to disable or pause protection, often found in the Settings, Tools, or Protection tab.
3. Select a duration for the temporary disable (e.g., 10 minutes, 1 hour).
4. Update your antivirus software.

Restart your PC: Restart your PC to ensure no other applications are blocking the update process.

0x80240034: Update process is stuck due to an incomplete update or connection issue

Check Windows Update Services: Ensure that the Windows Update services are running.

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Locate the Windows Update service and check if its running.

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:

1. Select Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
2. Locate Windows Update and select Run.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

0x800f0922: Unable to install the update due to insufficient disk space

Free up disk 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.

Disable VPN: If you're using a VPN, disable it and try again.

0x80070057 or 0x80080005: Corrupted files or incorrect system configurations

Run System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type sfc/scannow and run.

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:

1. Select Start > Settings > System,
2. Select Troubleshoot and choose Other troubleshooters.
3. Locate Windows Update and select Run.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

0xC1900101: Incompatible driver is causing the update to fail

Uninstall Network/Graphics drivers:

1. Open Device Manager, expand Network adapters or Display adapters and right-click on the adapter you want to uninstall and select Uninstall device.
2. After uninstalling the drivers, restart your computer for changes to take effect.

Update Network/Graphic drivers:

• Open Device Manager, expand Network adapters or Display adapters and right-click on the adapter you want to uninstall and select Update driver and choose Search automatically for drivers.

Perform a Clean Boot: Disable non-essential startup programs and services to ensure no conflict with the update.

0x80248014: Windows Update database problem or update service not running

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:

• Select Start > Settings > System.
• Select Troubleshoot and choose Other troubleshooters.
• Locate Windows Update and select Run.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Start Windows Update Services: Ensure that the Windows Update services are running.

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Locate the Windows Update service, right-click and select Start.

0x80070005: Access Denied error or insufficient permissions to install updates

Make sure you've Administrator access:

Some updates require administrator access. If your account doesn't have administrator access, see how to 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.

Disable Antivirus/Firewall: Temporarily disable any antivirus or firewall that might be blocking the update.

1. Open the antivirus or firewall application from the Start menu.
2. Look for an option to disable or pause protection, often found in the Settings, Tools, or Protection tab.
3. Select a duration for the temporary disable (e.g., 10 minutes, 1 hour).
4. Update your antivirus software.

0x80070002: Update failed to install

Restart your PC: Restart your PC to ensure no other applications are blocking the update process.

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:

• Select Start > Settings > System.
• Select Troubleshoot and choose Other troubleshooters.
• Locate Windows Update and select Run.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Check Disk space: 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.

Windows Update stuck at 0% or 100%

Restart your PC: Restart your PC to ensure no other applications are blocking the update process.

Check your Internet connection:

1. Select Start > Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
2. Verify your network status. If disconnected, reconnect to your Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.

Check Disk space: 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.

Windows Update got to 51-99% and wont complete installation

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.

Unable to locate my files after the Windows update

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 troubleshooting steps

Rename software distribution folders

1. 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

2. After all these commands are completed, close the Command Prompt window and restart your computer.

Temporarily remove third-party security software

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.

Repair hard drive errors

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.

Perform a clean restart into Windows

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

Restore and repair system files

1. In the search box on the taskbar, type command prompt , then select Run as administrator from the list of options.
2. In the window that appears, type this command including spaces as shown:
   DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
   
3. 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.
4. Next, type this command, including the space as shown:
   sfc /scannow
5. Press Enter. Wait until the sfc scan verification reaches 100% completion, and then close Command Prompt.
6. Try running the Windows Update again.

Learn how to repair a Windows image

Perform a clean installation of Windows 11

Go to the software download page and select Download tool now to download the clean installation tool. Make sure to carefully read the notes on the software download page before using the tool.

Windows Update is an essential component of Windows 10, 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.

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

If you are using a Windows 10 device, start by running the automated Windows Update troubleshooter in the Get Help app. It will automatically run diagnostics and attempt to fix most of the problems. If you are using an older version of Windows or a mobile device, please skip to General troubleshooting steps.

If the troubleshooter in Get Help app is unable to resolve your issue, select your specific problem from the Most common Windows Update problems section below and follow the provided steps. If your issue is not listed, try the possible solutions listed.

General troubleshooting

Please try the following general troubleshooting steps to help solve the Windows update problem.

Step 1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

• Select Start > Settings > Update & Security.
• From the left-hand menu, select Troubleshoot, then select on Additional troubleshooters.
• Under the Get up and running section and select Windows Update and select Run the troubleshooter.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Step 2: Verify that your device is properly plugged in and connected to the Internet

Make sure that your device is properly plugged into a power source and connected to the internet. A stable internet connection is crucial for downloading and installing updates. Follow these steps to ensure connectivity:

• Select Start > Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
• Verify your network status. If disconnected, reconnect to your Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.

 For more information, see Fix Wi-Fi connection issues in Windows.

Step 3. Make sure you have Administrator access

Some updates require administrator access. If your account doesn't have administrator access, see how to 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.

Step 4. Disconnect external hardware

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.

Step 5. Clear the Windows Update Cache

Corrupt update files in the cache can cause errors. Clear the cache by following these steps:

• Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
• Locate the Windows Update service, right-click it, and select Stop.
• Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution.
• Delete all files and folders inside this directory.
• Go back to the Services window, right-click Windows Update, and select Start.

Step 6. Verify Date and Time settings

Incorrect date and time settings can interfere with Windows Update:

• Select Start > Settings > Time & language.
• From the left-hand menu, select Date & time.
• Enable Set time automatically and If needed, select Sync now under Synchronize your clock.

Step 7. Update third-party drivers

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.

Step 8. Free up some space so you can run updates

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.

Step 9. Run Windows Update again

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.

Step 10. Restart to apply installed updates

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.

Most common Windows Update problems

Below, you will find the most common Windows update problems users have experienced, along with the error codes and the steps to troubleshoot them.

Error codes and their potential causes

The following list outlines error codes and potential causes associated with Windows Update. select the error code to view the detailed troubleshooting steps to resolve.

0x800705b4: Update took too long to install or was interrupted

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:

• Select Start > Settings > Update & Security.
• From the left-hand menu, select Troubleshoot, then select Additional troubleshooters.
• Under the Get up and running section and select Windows Update and select Run the troubleshooter.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Check your Internet connection:

• Select Start > Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
• Verify your network status. If disconnected, reconnect to your Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.

Reset Windows Update Services:

• Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
• Locate the Windows Update service, right-click it, and select Stop.
• Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution.
• Delete all files and folders inside this directory.
• Go back to the Services window, right-click Windows Update, and select Start.

Disable Antivirus/Firewall: Temporarily disable any antivirus or firewall that might be blocking the update.

• Open the antivirus or firewall application from the Start menu.
• Look for an option to disable or pause protection, often found in the Settings, Tools, or Protection tab.
• Select a duration for the temporary disable (e.g., 10 minutes, 1 hour).
• Update your antivirus software.

0x80240034: Update process is stuck due to an incomplete update or connection issue

Check Windows Update Services: Ensure that the Windows Update services are running.

• Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
• Locate the Windows Update service and check if its running.

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:

• Select Start > Settings > Update & Security.
• From the left-hand menu, select Troubleshoot, then click on Additional troubleshooters.
• Under the Get up and running section and select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

0x800f0922 or 0x8007000E: Unable to install the update due to insufficient disk space

Free up disk 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.

Disable VPN: If you're using a VPN, disable it and try again.

0x800F081F, 0x80073712 or 0x80246007: Corrupted or missing system files or incomplete download

Run System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type sfc/scannow and run.

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:

• Select Start > Settings > Update & Security.
• From the left-hand menu, select Troubleshoot, then click on Additional troubleshooters.
• Under the Get up and running section and select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

0x80246007: Missing download or required update files are unavailable

Reset Windows Update Services:

• Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
• Locate the Windows Update service, right-click it, and select Stop.
• Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution.
• Delete all files and folders inside this directory.
• Go back to the Services window, right-click Windows Update, and select Start.

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:

• Select Start > Settings > Update & Security.
• From the left-hand menu, select Troubleshoot, then click on Additional troubleshooters.
• Under the Get up and running section and select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Restart your PC: Restart your PC to ensure no other applications are blocking the update process.

0x80070002, 0x80070003 or 0x80070057: Update failed to install

Restart your PC: Restart your PC to ensure no other applications are blocking the update process.

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:

• Select Start > Settings > Update & Security.
• From the left-hand menu, select Troubleshoot, then click on Additional troubleshooters.
• Under the Get up and running section and select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Check Disk space: 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.

0x80070422: Windows update service is disabled or stopped

Ensure that the Windows Update service is enabled:

• Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
• Locate the Windows Update service, right-click it, and select Properties.
• In the Startup type dropdown, select Automatic.
• If the service is stopped, click Start to start the service.
• Click Apply and then OK.

Restart your PC and check for updates again:

After restarting, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates. Download and install any new updates.

0x80070020: Another program or process is blocking the Windows update process

Restart your PC: Restart your PC to ensure no other applications are blocking the update process.

Disable Antivirus/Firewall: Temporarily disable any antivirus or firewall that might be blocking the update.

• Open the antivirus or firewall application from the Start menu.
• Look for an option to disable or pause protection, often found in the Settings, Tools, or Protection tab.
• Select a duration for the temporary disable (e.g., 10 minutes, 1 hour).
• Update your antivirus software.

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:

• Select Start > Settings > Update & Security.
• From the left-hand menu, select Troubleshoot, then click on Additional troubleshooters.
• Under the Get up and running section and select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Windows Update stuck at 0% or 100%

Restart your PC: Restart your PC to ensure no other applications are blocking the update process.

Check your Internet connection:

• Select Start > Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
• Verify your network status. If disconnected, reconnect to your Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.

Check Disk space: 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.

Windows Update got to 51-99% and wont complete installation

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.

select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates. Download and install any new updates.

Unable to locate my files after the Windows update

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 troubleshooting steps

Rename software distribution folders

1. 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

2. After all these commands are completed, close the Command Prompt window and restart your computer.

Temporarily remove third-party security software

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.

Repair hard drive errors

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.

Perform a clean restart into Windows

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

Restore and repair system files

1. In the search box on the taskbar, type command prompt , then select Run as administrator from the list of options.
2. In the window that appears, type this command including spaces as shown:
   DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
   
3. 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.
4. Next, type this command, including the space as shown:
   sfc /scannow
5. Press Enter. Wait until the sfc scan verification reaches 100% completion, and then close Command Prompt.
6. Try running the Windows Update again.

Learn how to repair a Windows image

Perform a clean installation of Windows 10

Go to the software download page and select Download tool now to download the clean installation tool. Make sure to carefully read the notes on the software download page before using the tool.