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windows update troubleshooting in pc

Windows updates don’t always work like they should. If you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11, you’ve likely hit a snag at some point — maybe an update won’t install, or you’ve run into a black screen after Windows update. You’re definitely not the only one.

Microsoft releases updates every month to fix bugs, patch security holes, and improve system performance. But sometimes, those updates cause problems instead of solving them. You might see an error code, experience system lag, or find that the update just won’t finish.

If you’re facing a windows update problem, this guide will help. Below are simple steps to troubleshoot problems updating Windows, even if you’re not tech-savvy. We’ll also show you how the Windows Update Troubleshooter works and when to get help from a pro.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Check for Updates Again

an arrow pointing to "restart"
pointing on check for updates

Restarting can often fix update problems. It’s a simple part of windows update troubleshooting that clears out minor issues in the background.

Why It Helps

  • Fixes system glitches: Restarting clears temporary errors that block updates.
  • Resets background processes: It gives Windows a clean start before checking again.

How to Restart and Check for Updates

  1. Go to Start → Settings → Windows Update
  2. Restart your PC from the Power menu
  3. Once restarted, return to Start → Settings → Windows Update
  4. Click Check for updates

It’s a quick fix that often works for basic windows update problems. If it doesn’t solve it, don’t worry — we’ll keep going with more steps to troubleshoot problems updating Windows.

Step 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

clicking on troubleshoot other problem
hovering over to "windows update"

If restarting your PC didn’t fix the problem, try the Windows Update Troubleshooter. This tool can automatically detect and fix issues that might be stopping updates from installing correctly.

Why Use the Troubleshooter?

According to Microsoft support, the Windows Update Troubleshooter is designed to quickly find and fix common update-related problems. “Running the troubleshooter is often the fastest way to resolve issues that stop Windows updates from installing correctly,” says a Microsoft support technician.

How to Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

  1. Open Settings: Go to Start → Settings
  2. Find Troubleshooters: In the Settings menu, select System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters
  3. Run the Troubleshooter: Under Most frequent, find Windows Update and click Run
  4. Follow the prompts: The troubleshooter will scan for and try to fix any update-related issues.

Once it finishes, restart your PC and check for updates again by going to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.

For more details, you can also refer to Microsoft’s official guide on using the Windows Update Troubleshooter. quick and effective way to troubleshoot Windows Update problems, especially for common errors.

Step 3: Restart the Windows Update Service

type "services.msc" on run program
step 1: Type “service.msc”
select Windows Update > Properties
Step 2: Windows Update > Properties
Step 3: Select "Automatic"
Step 3: Select “Automatic”

If the previous steps didn’t fix your Windows update problem, manually restarting the Windows Update service might help. This service is crucial for downloading and installing updates, so making sure it’s running correctly is important.

How to Restart the Windows Update Service

  1. Open the Run dialog: Press Windows Key + R
  2. Access the Services Console: Type services.msc and press Enter or click OK
  3. Find the Windows Update Service: Scroll down to find it
  4. Modify the service settings: Right-click Windows UpdateProperties
    • Set the Startup type to Automatic
    • If the service is Stopped, click Start to initiate it
  5. Save changes: Click ApplyOK
  6. Restart your PC: After making these changes, restart your computer to ensure everything works correctly

Restarting the Windows Update service can resolve issues with updates not downloading or installing properly. If you still have problems, additional troubleshooting might be needed. steps.

Step 4: Reset Windows Update Registry Keys

If your updates aren’t working, it could be due to corrupted registry keys. Resetting them can help fix the problem and get your updates running smoothly.

Why Reset Registry Keys?

Corrupted registry keys can prevent Windows from properly recognising and applying updates. Resetting these keys helps restore the update process to its original state.

How to Reset Your Windows Update Registry Keys

  1. Open the Registry Editor: Press Windows Key + R, type regedit → press Enter. Click Yes if asked for permission
  2. Delete the Windows Update Registry Key:
    • In the Registry Editor, find WindowsUpdate on the left side
    • Right-click it → Delete. Confirm when asked
  3. Restart the Windows Update Service:
    • Press Windows Key + R, type services.msc → press Enter
    • Find Windows Update in the list, right-click it → Restart
  4. Restart Your PC: After completing the steps, restart your computer to apply the changes

This should resolve any issues with Windows Update. If not, don’t worry, there are still other steps to try!

For more details on troubleshooting registry issues, you can refer to Microsoft’s official support page.

Step 5: Perform System Restore

hovering on "create a restore point"
showing the "system restore" button

If Windows Update still fails, a System Restore can revert your system to a time when updates worked correctly. This process does not affect your personal files.

How to Perform a System Restore

  1. Open System Restore:
    • Press Windows Key + S → type Create a restore point → select the result to open System Properties.
    • Click System Restore.
  2. Choose a Restore Point:
    • Click Next.
    • Select a restore point from a date before the update issues began.
    • Click Next.
  3. Confirm and Restore:
    • Review your selection → click Finish.
    • When warned that System Restore cannot be undone, click Yes.
    • Your PC will restart and begin the restore process.
  4. Finish Up:
    • Once completed, your system will boot normally.
    • Check if Windows Update now works as expected.

Performing a System Restore can resolve issues caused by recent changes that affected Windows Update.

If the issue persists, consider getting professional help. A technician can perform a thorough check and find any deeper problems that might be causing the issue. If nothing else works, visiting a computer repair shop could be the best option to get your system back to normal.


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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Windows Update to fail?
How long should troubleshooting Windows Update take?
Does Windows Update fix corrupted files?
What happens if I turn off my PC during an update?
What to do when a Windows Update is stuck?

What causes Windows Update to fail?

Windows Update can fail due to various reasons like corrupted system files, insufficient storage, network issues, or conflicts with third-party software.

How long should troubleshooting Windows Update take?

Troubleshooting Windows Update can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the issue. If problems persist, more advanced steps may be needed.

Does Windows Update fix corrupted files?

Yes, Windows Update can fix corrupted system files by replacing outdated files with new versions from Microsoft’s servers.

What happens if I turn off my PC during an update?

Turning off your PC during an update can cause incomplete installations, leading to errors or system instability. It's best to let updates finish before shutting down.

What to do when a Windows Update is stuck?

If your update is stuck, try restarting your PC, running the Windows Update troubleshooter, or manually restarting the Windows Update service.

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