If Windows Update will not download or install, stays at 0% or 100%, or shows an error code, start with Microsoft’s Windows Update troubleshooter. Back up important files first, then work from basic checks toward more advanced repairs. The steps below cover Windows 11 and Windows 10; navigation and support status differ by version.
Before troubleshooting: protect files and note the symptoms
Back up important personal files before changing update settings or attempting repairs. Microsoft suggests copying files with File Explorer to a USB drive; OneDrive is another option. Use a backup method you already trust—no particular product or capacity is required.
Note your Windows version, any exact error code, whether the download or installation is stalled, how long it has remained at the same point, and whether the problem began after an update or a version upgrade. A short pause does not necessarily mean an update is frozen: Microsoft says installation time can vary with connection speed, network settings, and update size. Microsoft describes Windows Update as “an essential component of Windows 11, ensuring your system remains secure, stable, and up-to-date with the latest features.” (Microsoft Support.)
Run the Windows Update troubleshooter and try again
Windows 11
- Open the Get Help app and run its automated Windows Update troubleshooter, which Microsoft recommends as the first step.
- If you use the Settings route instead, open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters, then select Run beside Windows Update. Labels can vary between Windows releases.
- Restart the PC if the troubleshooter directs you to, then open Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates.
Windows 10
Microsoft’s documented route is Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Windows Update. Microsoft states that free Windows 10 software updates through Windows Update, technical assistance, and security fixes ended on October 14, 2025. See Microsoft’s Windows Update Troubleshooter page for the current instructions.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors#1 Best Overall
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Use the error code and symptoms to choose the next check
An error code is a clue, not a certain diagnosis. Microsoft associates codes with possible causes; the same code does not prove that a particular cause applies to every PC.
| Microsoft’s example | Possible issue to check |
|---|---|
| 0x800705b4 | A slow or interrupted update |
| 0x800f0922 | Insufficient disk space in the described example |
| 0xC1900101 | A potentially incompatible driver |
| 0x80070422 | A disabled or stopped Windows Update service |
Microsoft also connects other codes with possible missing or corrupted files, interrupted downloads, or service and database trouble. Review the matching code guidance in Microsoft’s Windows Update troubleshooting article rather than treating a code as a definitive diagnosis.
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- Check that the PC has an internet connection and enough available disk space.
- Check that the date and time are correct.
- If the code or symptoms point to a driver, check for relevant driver updates from the PC or device manufacturer.
- For a scenario where Microsoft specifically identifies VPN or security software interference, follow that guidance. Do not leave antivirus or firewall protection disabled; any temporary test should be limited to the steps Microsoft specifies.
Clear the Windows Update cache if simpler checks fail
Microsoft’s general cache procedure stops the Windows Update service, clears the contents of C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution, and starts the service again. Its advanced procedure uses an elevated command prompt to stop Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) and Windows Update, rename the SoftwareDistribution and catroot2 folders, restart the services, and restart the PC.
Follow Microsoft’s complete procedure for your case; do not improvise service or folder changes. The advanced steps require administrator permissions, and Microsoft advises using them only if you are comfortable working with the command line. See the cache and advanced instructions in Troubleshoot problems updating Windows.
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Repair Windows system files with DISM and SFC
If basic troubleshooting and the cache steps have not resolved the issue, Microsoft documents this sequence in an administrator Command Prompt. Run the first command and wait for it to complete before running the second:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealthsfc /scannow
DISM repairs the Windows image; System File Checker (SFC) scans protected system files. Allow both operations to finish, then try Windows Update again. This is an advanced repair, not a guaranteed fix. Microsoft’s System File Checker instructions explain the repair context.
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Consider recovery if the issue followed an update or upgrade
If the problem began immediately after a recent update, Windows recovery may offer the option to uninstall that update. If it began after upgrading to a new Windows version, returning to the previous version is a separate option that Microsoft says is available for 10 days after the upgrade. Back up your files and review the on-screen warnings before using either choice; see Recovery options in Windows.
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Which troubleshooting step should you try next?
- Start with the troubleshooter for a general update failure, then restart and check again if directed.
- Check the relevant basics when an error code or symptom suggests a connection, storage, date/time, or driver issue.
- Move to cache or system-file repair only after simpler checks, and only if you can follow administrator instructions carefully.
- Use recovery options when the timing points to a specific recent update or version upgrade, choosing the option that matches what happened.
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