6 Methods to Solve Windows Update Not Working in Windows 11/10

Windows Update not working on your Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer? Here are six effective solutions to assist you.

Every month, Microsoft consistently rolls out various updates for both Windows 10 and Windows 11. Each of these updates is designed to improve the performance of your operating system, incorporating the newest features and addressing different security vulnerabilities. When an update notification appears on your computer, you can download and install it through the Windows Update feature.

However, you might encounter issues like Windows update not working on Windows 10 or Windows 11. This could leave you stranded with various errors that pop up during an update, such as Windows update taking forever, download errors, Windows installation failure, and many more. If you're grappling with these errors, follow this guide. It will assist you in understanding and resolving the most common Windows Update problems.

Why Isn't the Windows Update Working on Windows 10/11?

There can be various reasons behind the Windows Update not working error in Windows 11/10. Here are some of the most prominent issues that people encounter globally:

Incorrect Registry Keys - If you have recently used or modified the registry keys, this could be the cause of errors encountered during the Windows update process. The registry keys play a crucial role in downloading and installing Windows updates, and any alteration might disrupt the Windows Update service running in the background.

Stopped Windows Update Service - This could be another major culprit preventing your system from receiving updates. If, for any reason, the Windows Update service is stopped or disabled, the computer might not be able to update the operating system.

Temporary Files - If you've attempted to update Windows 10/11 multiple times by downloading and are encountering an error, with Windows updates not functioning properly, the issue might stem from corrupted files in the Software Distribution folder. These temporary update files could be the source of the error, as they are not being correctly installed by the system.

Corrupted system files - Another significant reason is corrupted system files, as each file is vital for updating Windows. Ensure that your system files are not corrupted.

Third-party antivirus - In certain instances, third-party antivirus or security applications can cause issues during the process of updating the Windows operating system. Uninstalling these software programs can help resolve any Windows updating errors.

How to Fix Windows Update Not Working: 6 Solutions

This section will navigate you through various methods to resolve the issue of Windows updates not functioning properly. Should the update process encounter unforeseen errors or your system fails to boot, it might result in data loss and security vulnerabilities. Therefore, we recommend safeguarding all crucial files using a reliable data recovery software.

Securing Your Computer Data Is the Most Important Thing

You can utilize the Data Recovery Wizard tool to recover all data from your Windows computer. It is a dependable and user-friendly software that enables you to retrieve your data with just a few straightforward steps. This enhanced software is capable of assisting in any data loss scenario, even when your computer fails to turn on.

Although this is an advanced program, it boasts an intuitive user interface that distinguishes it from numerous others, allowing even beginners to operate it with ease. It empowers users to recover deleted files in various formats, encompassing images, documents, videos, and more.

Click here to download this remarkable data recovery software and follow the step-by-step instructions to assist you in recovering data on Windows 10/11.

Step 1. Launch the Data Recovery Wizard tool. Select the drive where you lost your files and initiate the scanning process. This software enables you to retrieve lost data from various devices, including HDD, SSD, USB drive, SD card, pen drive, camera, and so on.

Step 2. Browse the complete scan results. You can select the file type you need by clicking on the file type filter. The data recovery software supports over 1000 file types, including photos, videos, documents, emails, audio files, and many more.

Step 3. Select the files you wish to preview. Click "Recover" and specify a storage location to save the retrieved data.

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Once you have successfully recovered all essential data, let's explore six methods to fix the issue of Windows Update not working in Windows 11/10. Here they are:

1. Solution 1: Restart the Windows Update Service
2. Solution 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
3. Solution 3: Reset Windows Update Registry Keys
4. Solution 4: Execute DISM and SFC Commands
5. Solution 5: Perform a System Restore
6. Solution 6: Clean Install Windows 10 or Windows 11

Fix 1: Restart the Windows Update Service

The initial step to address this issue is to restart the Windows Update service. It's crucial to ensure that it's running, as it is responsible for updating the operating system.

Step 1. Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run Window.

Step 2. Type services.msc and click "OK" or press Enter.

Step 3. In the Services window, press the W key to navigate to the Windows Update service.

Step 4. Once you find Windows Update Service, right-click on it and select "Properties".

Step 5. Under the Startup type menu, select "Automatic".

Step 6. Click "OK", then select "Start" if the service is stopped.

Step 7. Click "Apply" and check if the Windows update is functioning.

Fix 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows 10/11 comes with a built-in troubleshooter to address any issues related to Windows Update. If you're unsure about the cause of the problem, it's a great tool to help identify it. Simply run the Windows Update troubleshooter and allow it to fix the issue with the Windows 10/11 update not functioning properly.

Step 1. Click on the Start button, type troubleshoot, and then click on "Troubleshoot settings".

Step 2. Select "Additional troubleshooters".

Step 3. Scroll down the list and select "Windows Update."

Step 4. Click the "Run the troubleshooter" button to launch it.

Wait for the troubleshooting process to complete. It will supply important information about the problem and attempt to resolve it. If the Windows Update troubleshooter isn't functioning and doesn't fix the issue, proceed to the next method.

Fix 3: Reset Windows Update Registry Keys

In your Windows system, it's possible that the registry keys have become corrupted or altered. Resetting the Windows Update registry keys to their original state can be an effective solution to address this issue. Follow these steps to accomplish this: 1. **Backup the Registry**: Before making any changes, it's crucial to create a backup of your registry. Press `Win + R` to open the Run dialog box, type `regedit`, and hit Enter. In the Registry Editor, click on 'File' then 'Export', choose a location to save the backup, and click 'Save'. 2. **Locate the Windows Update Keys**: Navigate to the following key in the Registry Editor: `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsUpdate` 3. **Export the Windows Update Keys**: Right-click on the 'WindowsUpdate' key and select 'Export'. Save it to a secure location for future reference. 4. **Reset the Keys**: Now, you'll need to delete or modify the problematic keys. However, identifying the exact keys causing issues might require technical knowledge. Some commonly recommended keys to reset are: - `AUOptions` - `AutoUpdateEnabled` - `DetectionFrequency` - `ScheduledInstallDay` - `ScheduledInstallTime` Right-click on each key, select 'Delete', and confirm the action when prompted. 5. **Reboot Your System**: After deleting the keys, restart your computer. 6. **Restore Default Settings**: To reset the Windows Update settings to default, run the Command Prompt as an administrator. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each: ``` wuauclt /resetauthorization /detectnow net stop wuauserv net start wuauserv ``` 7. **Reimport the Backup**: If the above steps don't resolve the issue, you can reimport the backup of the Windows Update keys. In the Registry Editor, go to 'File' then 'Import', select the backup file you saved earlier, and click 'Open'. Remember, tampering with the registry can be risky if not done correctly. If you're not comfortable with these steps, consider seeking professional assistance.

Step 1. Click the link to download the Windows Update Reset file.

Step 2. After downloading, open the file and click "Run".

Step 3. Select "Yes" to confirm.

Step 4. Once the process is complete, check if the error has been resolved.

Fix 4: Run DISM and SFC Commands

DISM stands for Deployment Image Servicing and Management, while SFC stands for System File Checker. Both tools are designed to repair Windows images and system files. If a Windows update is failing due to a corrupted file, executing the following commands can help fix the issue. Please follow these steps:

Step 1. Go to the Start Menu and type Command Prompt in the search bar.

Step 2. Right-click the app and select "Run as Administrator".

Press Enter to individually copy and paste the following commands:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

sfc /scannow This command translates to "System File Checker" in English, which is a utility in Windows that scans for and repairs corrupted system files.

Translation: "Repairing system files"

Step 3. After the process finishes running, close the Command Prompt and check if the issue has been resolved. If the problem persists, proceed with the next method.

Fix 5: Perform System Restore

Step 1. Go to the Start menu and select "Settings".

Step 2. At the bottom, click "Update & Security".

Step 3. Select the "View Update History" option.

Step 4. The next window will display the list of recently installed updates on your system.

Step 5. Click "Uninstall Updates" at the top.

Step 6. Select the most recent update and click the "Uninstall" option next to it to remove it.

This system restoration process will roll back your Windows Operating System to a previous state, allowing it to function properly. If the system restore encounters issues, attempt to reverse the system restore without data loss.

Solution 6: Perform a Clean Install of Windows 10 or Windows 11

If the issue persists after attempting all the methods, it might be advisable to perform a clean installation of Windows.

Step 1. Click any link to download a valid version of Windows 10 or Windows 11.

Step 2. Scroll down the page to locate the Download Now option under Create Windows 11 Installation Media.

Step 3. Install the updated version of Windows 10/11 and enjoy using your Windows computer.

Final Verdicts

We hope this guide assists you in understanding the reasons behind and the solutions to fix the issue of Windows updates not functioning on Windows 11/10. There are numerous methods available to resolve this problem and allow you to enjoy using the latest version of your Windows 10/11.

Moreover, if you're at risk of data loss or your computer fails to start due to a Windows upgrade issue, utilize data recovery software to retrieve your data.

"Windows Update Not Working" FAQs

If you still have any questions regarding the Windows update not functioning properly, this section will address some frequently asked questions about the issue.

1. How to resolve issues with Windows 11 not updating?

You need to resolve this issue by installing and updating the system manually. To proceed, make sure your computer is connected to the internet. Follow these steps: Click on the Start Menu, then navigate to Settings, Update & Security, and then Windows Update. From there, click on the 'Check for updates' option.

2. How do I force Windows 11 to update? To force an update on Windows 11, follow these steps: 1. Press the Windows key + I to open Settings. 2. Click on "Windows Update" in the left sidebar. 3. In the right pane, click on "Check for updates" button. This will scan your system for any available updates. 4. If an update is found, it will start downloading automatically. To initiate the installation process manually, click on "Download and install" (if shown). 5. Once the download is complete, you'll see a notification saying "Ready to install". Click on "Restart now" to begin the installation process. Your computer will restart and complete the update. If the above steps don't work or if you're having issues with updates, try these additional methods: 6. **Pause Updates:** - In the Windows Update settings, click on "Advanced options". - Under "Update options", turn off the toggle for "Pause updates" if it's enabled. - Turn it back on after a few minutes, then turn it off again. This can sometimes trigger an update check. 7. **Windows Update Troubleshooter:** - Go to "Settings" > "System" > "Troubleshoot". - Click on "Additional troubleshooters" and then select "Windows Update". - Run the troubleshooter and follow its instructions. 8. **Reset Windows Update Components:** - Press the Windows key + X and choose "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows Terminal (Admin)". - Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each: ``` net stop wuauserv net stop cryptSvc net stop bits net stop msiserver ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old net start wuauserv net start cryptSvc net start bits net start msiserver ``` - Restart your computer and check for updates again. 9. **Resetting the Windows Update Settings:** - Open Registry Editor by typing "regedit" in the Start menu search bar and selecting the appropriate result. - Navigate to `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsUpdate\AutoUpdate`. - Backup the registry by exporting the AutoUpdate key before modifying it. - Right-click on "AutoUpdate" and select "Permissions". Click "Advanced" and change ownership to "Administrators." - Give "Administrators" full control, then close the windows. - Delete the following DWORD values if they exist: `DisableWindowsUpdateAccess`, `UseWUServer`, and `AUOptions`. - Restart your PC and check for updates. Remember that dealing with the Windows Update system can be risky, so make sure to create a system restore point or backup your data before attempting these steps.

The most recent version of Windows 11 is 22H2, also referred to as the Windows 11 2022 Update. To check for Windows 11 updates on your device, follow these steps: 1. Click on the Start Menu. 2. Select 'Settings.' 3. Open 'Windows Update.' 4. Click on 'Check for updates.' If updates are available, your system will prompt you to install them. For information on the specific hardware requirements to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11, you can visit this link: Windows 11 Specifications.

3. How to remove Windows 10 updates that fail to install?

Corrupted Windows Updates are one of the potential causes that might hinder you from installing new updates. You can remove these corrupted Windows 10 updates using two methods:

1) In the search bar, type "Disk Cleanup" and select the first option from the results list. Under "Files to delete," choose the file types you wish to remove, then click "OK."

2) Click on this link to download and run the Windows Update Troubleshooter to resolve the issue with ease.

4. How to resolve issues with Windows Update not functioning on Windows 11?

• Reset Windows update registry keys
• Manually check the Windows update utility.
• Ensure all Windows update-related services are running.
• Uninstall third-party security software.
• Utilize the Windows update troubleshooter.