How to Fix Windows Update Error Step by Step in 2026

How to fix Windows Update error is a common concern for many Windows users when their computer is unable to download, install, or complete important system updates. These errors may appear with codes such as 0x80070002, 0x80073712, 0x800f081f, 0x80248014, 0x800705b4, 0x80070057, or 0xC1900101. In some cases, Windows Update may get stuck at 0%, fail after restarting, roll back changes, or show messages like “Something went wrong,” “Updates failed to install,” or “We couldn’t complete the updates.”

If you are searching for how to fix Windows Update error, the good news is that most update problems can be fixed without reinstalling Windows. In many cases, the issue is caused by low storage space, corrupted update files, damaged system files, stopped Windows Update services, driver conflicts, internet problems, Delivery Optimization issues, or known Microsoft update bugs.

In 2026, fixing Windows Update errors is especially important because Windows 11 continues to receive regular updates, security improvements, and feature support. Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025, which means most Windows 10 PCs no longer receive regular free security updates, feature updates, or technical support unless they are enrolled in an eligible support option. Microsoft recommends moving to Windows 11 for continued security and reliability.

This step-by-step guide explains how to fix Windows Update error safely using beginner-friendly methods, official Microsoft troubleshooting steps, and advanced repair options when basic fixes do not work.

Quick Answer: How to Fix Windows Update Error

To fix Windows Update error, restart your PC, check your internet connection, free up disk space, and run the Windows Update troubleshooter. If the error continues, find the failed KB number, check the exact error code, restart Windows Update services, run DISM and SFC, reset Windows Update components, update drivers, perform a clean boot, check Windows Release Health, and manually install the update if needed.

The common Windows Update troubleshooter path is:

Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run

After the troubleshooter finishes, restart the device and check for updates again.

Common Signs of Windows Update Error

Before learning how to fix Windows Update error, it helps to identify the symptoms. Windows Update problems do not always look the same. Some users see a specific error code, while others only notice that updates are stuck, slow, missing, or repeatedly failing.

Common signs include:

• Windows Update stuck at 0%, 20%, 35%, 61%, 99%, or 100%
• “Updates failed to install” message
• “Something went wrong” error
• “We couldn’t complete the updates” message
• Repeated restart loop after an update
• Update download keeps failingThe
• Windows Update page does not load
• The feature update does not appear
• PC becomes slow after an update attempt
• Update installs but rolls back after restart
• Error code appears after clicking Check for updates
• Update gets stuck on Pending download or Pending install

These symptoms are often linked to corrupted update files, low storage, damaged Windows system files, disabled update services, driver conflicts, network problems, or known update issues.

Quick Diagnosis: What Should You Try First?

Before trying advanced repair methods, it is important to identify the exact problem you are seeing. This quick diagnosis table helps you understand how to fix Windows Update error based on the most likely cause and the best first solution.

This table gives users a fast way to understand how to fix Windows Update error without guessing. Start with the simplest fix first, then move to advanced steps only if the error continues.

Common Reasons for Windows Update Error

Before learning how to fix Windows Update error, it is important to understand why the problem happens. Windows Update errors can appear for many reasons, including low storage, corrupted files, driver conflicts, internet problems, or disabled update services. Knowing the cause makes it easier to choose the correct solution.

Before You Start: Important Safety Tips

Before using advanced steps in this How to Fix Windows Update Error guide, follow these basic safety tips to protect your files and system:

• Save all open work.
• Restart your computer once.
• Keep your laptop connected to power.
• Back up important files.
• Write down the exact error code.
• Check whether the failed update has a KB number.
• Avoid deleting random system files manually.
• Avoid using third-party registry cleaner tools.
• Download updates only from Microsoft or trusted manufacturer sources.
• Do not interrupt your PC while an update is actively installing.

Before making advanced system changes, users should create a restore point or backup important files whenever possible.

Step 1: Restart Your PC and Try Windows Update Again

The simplest fix is often the most effective. A pending restart, stuck background process, or temporary system conflict can stop Windows Update from working properly. If you want to know how to fix Windows Update error safely, restarting your PC should always be the first step.

To restart your PC:

1. Click Start.
2. Select Power.
3. Click Restart.
4. After the restart, open Settings.
5. Go to Windows Update.
6. Click Check for updates.

In many cases, Windows Update problems happen after interrupted shutdowns, unfinished restarts, or long periods without rebooting the computer.

If the update installs successfully, the issue was likely temporary. If the same Windows Update error appears again, continue with the next steps.

Step 2: Check Your Internet Connection

Windows Update needs a stable internet connection to download update files. If your connection drops during download, the update may fail, time out, or become corrupted.

Try these fixes:

• Restart your Wi-Fi router.
• Switch from Wi-Fi to Ethernet if possible.
• Disconnect VPN temporarily.
• Disable proxy settings if you do not need them.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi for large updates.
• Pause large downloads while Windows Update is running.
• Make sure your connection is not marked as metered.

A weak internet connection can cause update downloads to restart, freeze, or fail before installation begins. That is why checking your network is an important step when learning how to fix Windows Update error on Windows 11 or Windows 10.

Step 3: Check Delivery Optimization Settings

Delivery Optimization helps Windows download updates and apps more efficiently. However, strict bandwidth limits, metered settings, or downloads from other PCs can sometimes slow or interrupt updates.

To check Delivery Optimization in Windows 11:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Windows Update.
3. Click Advanced options.
4. Select Delivery Optimization.
5. Turn off Allow downloads from other PCs if updates are slow or stuck.
6. Open Advanced options.
7. Remove strict download or upload bandwidth limits if they are blocking updates.

This step is useful when Windows Update is stuck downloading, moving slowly, or failing on a limited network. It also helps users understand how to fix Windows Update error when the problem is caused by download settings instead of system corruption.

Step 4: Free Up Disk Space

Low storage is one of the most common reasons Windows Update fails. Large security updates, cumulative updates, and feature updates need enough space to download, unpack, and install. If you are learning how to fix Windows Update error, checking storage should be one of your first steps.

To free up space:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click System.
3. Select Storage.
4. Open Cleanup recommendations.
5. Remove temporary files and unused apps.
6. Empty the Recycle Bin after checking important files.
7. Move large photos, videos, or backups to an external drive.
8. Restart your PC and check for updates again.

Files You Can Usually Remove Safely

Do not manually delete folders from the Windows system directory. Use Windows Storage settings, Disk Cleanup, or Cleanup recommendations instead.

Step 5: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update troubleshooter is the best first official repair tool. It checks common update problems and attempts to fix them automatically. This is one of the easiest methods in any How to Fix Windows Update Error guide because it does not require advanced technical knowledge.

For Windows 11:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to System.
3. Click Troubleshoot.
4. Select Other troubleshooters.
5. Find Windows Update.
6. Click Run.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions.
8. Restart your computer.

After restarting, open Windows Update again and click Check for updates.

Step 6: Find the Failed Windows Update KB Number

Sometimes Windows Update shows only a general error message. In that case, you should check the failed update name or KB number. A KB number looks like KB503xxxx or KB50xxxxx and helps you identify the exact failed update.

To check update history:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Windows Update.
3. Click Update history.
4. Look under Quality updates, Driver updates, or Feature updates.
5. Note the failed update name and KB number.
6. Search the KB number in Microsoft Update Catalog if manual installation is needed.

This step is helpful because different update types require different fixes. A failed driver update, security update, cumulative update, and feature update may not have the same solution. Checking the KB number makes it easier to understand how to fix Windows Update error accurately.

Step 7: Check the Exact Windows Update Error Code

Windows Update error codes help identify the cause of the problem. Some codes point to missing files, while others point to driver issues, storage problems, or failed installations.

Step 8: Run DISM to Repair Windows Update Corruption

If the Windows Update error continues, repair the Windows image using DISM. DISM stands for Deployment Image Servicing and Management. It can repair corruption that prevents updates from installing.

Microsoft officially recommends DISM and System File Checker tools for repairing corrupted Windows system images and update-related file issues.

To run DISM:

1. Click Start.
2. Search for Command Prompt.
3. Right-click Command Prompt.
4. Select Run as administrator.
5. Enter this command:

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth

Wait until the process reaches 100%. Do not close the window while it is running.

Step 9: Run System File Checker

After DISM completes, run System File Checker. This tool scans protected Windows system files and repairs corrupted files when possible.

In the same administrator Command Prompt, type:

sfc /scannow

Wait for the scan to finish. You may see one of these messages:

Running DISM and SFC together is one of the most reliable ways to repair damaged files when you need to know how to fix Windows Update error safely.

Step 10: Reset Windows Update Components

If Windows Update files are corrupted, resetting update components can help. This clears old update cache files and restarts important update services.

Open Command Prompt as administrator and run these commands one by one:

net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
net stop cryptsvc
net stop msiserver

Then, rename the update cache folders:

ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old

Now restart the services:

net start wuauserv
net start bits
net start cryptsvc
net start msiserver

Restart your PC and check for updates again.

This method forces Windows to create fresh update folders. It is useful when updates are stuck, partially downloaded, or repeatedly failing.

Step 11: Check Windows Update Services

Windows Update depends on background services. If one of these services is disabled or stuck, updates may fail.

To check services:

1. Press Windows + R.
2. Type:

services.msc

1. Press Enter.
2. Find these services:
   • Windows Update
   • Background Intelligent Transfer Service
   • Cryptographic Services
   • Windows Installer
3. Make sure they are not disabled.
4. Right-click each service and select Start or Restart if needed.

Checking these services is another useful step in understanding how to fix Windows Update error when updates fail because required background processes are not running.

Step 12: Update Device Drivers

Old or broken drivers can block Windows updates, especially during major Windows upgrades. Driver-related failures often appear with codes such as 0xC1900101.

You should update:

• Graphics driver
• Network driver
• Audio driver
• Chipset driver
• Storage controller driver
• Printer or scanner driver
• External device drivers

Best driver update methods:

• Use Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates.
• Visit your laptop or motherboard manufacturer’s official website.
• Avoid unknown driver updater tools.
• Remove or update old drivers before major upgrades.

You can also read our detailed driver update guide for safer methods to update chipset, graphics, network, and storage drivers

Step 13: Disconnect External Devices

External hardware can interrupt Windows updates, especially during feature updates or major version upgrades.

Disconnect unnecessary devices such as:

• USB drives
• External hard drives
• Printers
• Scanners
• Speakers
• Headphones
• Game controllers
• Docking stations
• SD cards
• Bluetooth adapters

Keep only your keyboard, mouse, monitor, internet connection, and power cable connected. Then restart your computer and try Windows Update again.

Step 14: Temporarily Disable Third-Party Antivirus

Some third-party antivirus or firewall tools may block update files, services, or installation processes. You do not need to uninstall the antivirus immediately, but temporarily disabling it may help during the installation of the update. This can be useful when learning how to fix Windows Update error caused by security software conflicts.

Before doing this:

• Make sure Windows Security is active.
• Download updates only from Windows Update or Microsoft sources.
• Re-enable antivirus after the update finishes.
• Do not browse unknown websites while security tools are disabled.

If disabling antivirus fixes the problem, update the antivirus software or contact the vendor.

Step 15: Perform a Clean Boot to Find Software Conflicts

If Windows Update still fails, a third-party startup app or background service may be blocking the update process. A clean boot starts Windows with only essential Microsoft services and helps identify software conflicts.

To perform a clean boot:

1. Press Windows + R.
2. Type msconfig and press Enter.
3. Open the Services tab.
4. Select Hide all Microsoft services.
5. Click Disable all.
6. Click Apply.
7. Open the Startup tab.
8. Click Open Task Manager.
9. Disable unnecessary startup apps.
10. Restart your PC.
11. Try Windows Update again.

After troubleshooting, return to System Configuration and choose Normal startup.

A clean boot is an important step in a complete How to Fix Windows Update Error guide because it helps find software conflicts that basic troubleshooting may miss.

Step 16: Check Windows Release Health

Sometimes the problem is not your PC. A specific Windows update may have a known issue, rollout delay, compatibility block, or temporary installation problem.

You should check Windows Release Health when:

• Many users report the same update problem.
• A feature update is not showing.
• Your device is blocked from upgrading.
• The update fails even after basic troubleshooting.
• You recently installed a problematic update.
• A driver or app compatibility issue appears after updating.

This step helps you confirm whether the issue is caused by your device or by a known Windows update problem. It is especially useful when researching how to fix Windows Update error after a recent Microsoft update release.

Microsoft Windows Release Health can help users identify known update bugs, safeguard holds, compatibility issues, and rollout problems affecting specific devices or Windows versions.

Step 17: Check If Your Device Has a Compatibility Hold

Sometimes Windows Update does not show a feature update because Microsoft has placed a compatibility hold, also called a safeguard hold, on your device. This can happen when your PC has a driver, app, or hardware issue that may cause problems with a new Windows version.

You may have a compatibility hold if:

• A feature update is available for others, but not for your PC.
• Windows Update says your device is not ready.
• The update disappears after checking.
• The same feature update keeps failing.
• Your device has older drivers or unsupported hardware.
• A known issue affects your device model, driver, or app.

Do not force a major update if Microsoft has blocked it for your device. Instead, update drivers, remove incompatible apps, and check Windows Release Health.

This is a key safety point when explaining how to fix Windows Update error, because forcing blocked updates can create more serious system issues.

Step 18: Manually Install the Failed Update

If Windows Update fails repeatedly, you can manually download and install the failed update from official Microsoft sources.

Before doing this:

1. Note the failed update name, such as KB503xxxx or KB50xxxxx.
2. Check whether your system is x64, ARM64, or another architecture.
3. Download only the correct update package.
4. Close open apps before installation.
5. Restart your PC after installation.

Update availability, rollout timing, and compatibility restrictions may vary depending on device hardware, installed drivers, Windows version, and Microsoft deployment stages.

Manual installation is useful when Windows Update downloads fail but the system itself is still healthy. It is also a practical solution for users searching for how to fix Windows Update error without resetting Windows.

Step 19: Install the Update from Microsoft Update Catalog

If Windows Update keeps failing, you can manually download the failed update from the Microsoft Update Catalog. This is useful when the automatic update process is broken but the update package itself can still be installed.

Steps:

1. Find the failed KB number in the update history.
2. Open Microsoft Update Catalog.
3. Search for the KB number.
4. Choose the correct version for your system.
5. Download the update package.
6. Run the installer.
7. Restart your computer.

Only download updates from official Microsoft sources.

Step 20: Use Windows Installation Assistant or ISO Repair

If the update error appears during a major Windows upgrade, a repair installation may help. This method keeps your files and apps while refreshing Windows system files.

Use this method when:

• DISM and SFC do not solve the problem.
• Windows Update keeps failing with the same error.
• System files are badly damaged.
• A feature update fails repeatedly.
• Windows Update opens, but cannot install anything.
• Resetting Windows feels too risky as the next step.

Before using this method, back up your important files. A repair install is safer than a clean installation, but backups are still important.

This advanced method belongs near the end of a How to Fix Windows Update Error guide because it is stronger than basic troubleshooting but safer than a full reset.

Step 21: Uninstall a Problematic Windows Update

Sometimes an update installs successfully but causes new problems, such as slow performance, app crashes, driver issues, audio problems, printing issues, Wi-Fi problems, or startup errors. In that case, uninstalling the recent update may help.

To uninstall a recent update:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Windows Update.
3. Click Update history.
4. Scroll down and select Uninstall updates.
5. Choose the most recent problematic update.
6. Click Uninstall.
7. Restart your PC.

After removing the update, check whether the problem is fixed.

Step 22: Advanced Fix: Use DISM with Component Cleanup

If normal DISM and SFC scans do not work, you can try component cleanup. This can help clean old Windows component store files that may interfere with updates.

Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup

After it finishes, run:

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth

Then run:

sfc /scannow

This advanced fix is useful when Windows Update fails repeatedly because of component store corruption or leftover update files. It is a strong technical step for users who want to know how to fix Windows Update error beyond basic troubleshooting.

Step 23: Reset Windows as a Last Option

Resetting Windows should be the final step after trying safer fixes. It can solve deep system problems, but it may remove apps and settings depending on the option you choose.

Choose Keep my files first if you want to avoid losing personal files. Still, back up important files before resetting.

Use reset only when:

• Windows Update is completely broken.
• DISM and SFC do not fix the issue.
• Windows services are damaged.
• Update errors continue after the repair installation.
• The PC has serious system stability problems.

Resetting Windows is the last step in learning how to fix Windows Update errors because it can repair deep system damage, but it should only be used after safer methods have failed.

Windows 10 Users in 2026: Important Warning

If you are using Windows 10 in 2026, learning how to fix Windows Update error needs extra attention because Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Windows 10 PCs can still work, but most users no longer receive regular free software updates, security fixes, or technical support.

This means Windows 10 users should:

• Check whether the PC can upgrade to Windows 11.
• Avoid downloading unofficial update patches.
• Keep browsers and antivirus tools updated.
• Back up important files regularly.
• Consider Extended Security Updates if eligible.
• Replace unsupported hardware if the PC cannot run Windows 11 safely.

For long-term safety, Windows 11 is the better option for most users because it continues receiving regular security and feature updates.

Best Fixes Based on Your Situation

When learning how to fix Windows Update error, the best solution depends on the exact problem you see. Use this table to quickly match your issue with the right fix.

This table helps users understand how to fix Windows Update error without wasting time on the wrong solution.

Best Order to Fix Windows Update Error

For the safest results, follow this order:

1. Restart your PC.
2. Check your internet connection.
3. Check Delivery Optimization settings.
4. Free up storage space.
5. Run Windows Update troubleshooter.
6. Find the failed KB number.
7. Check the exact error code.
8. Restart Windows Update services.
9. Run DISM.
10. Run SFC.
11. Reset Windows Update components.
12. Update drivers.
13. Disconnect external devices.
14. Temporarily disable third-party antivirus.
15. Perform a clean boot.
16. Check Windows Release Health.
17. Check compatibility holds.
18. Manually install the update.
19. Use Microsoft Update Catalog.
20. Use repair installation or ISO repair.
21. Uninstall a problematic update if needed.
22. Reset Windows only as a last option.

This order is safer because it starts with simple fixes and moves toward advanced repair only when needed. It also makes your How to Fix Windows Update Error guide easier for beginners to follow.

What Not to Do When Fixing Windows Update Error

When trying to understand how to fix Windows Update error, avoid these common mistakes:

Avoid these mistakes:

• Do not turn off your PC during an active update unless it is completely frozen.
• Do not delete Windows system folders manually.
• Do not download updates from unknown websites.
• Do not use random registry cleaners.
• Do not ignore low disk space warnings.
• Do not install outdated drivers from unsafe sources.
• Do not force a major update if Microsoft has placed a compatibility hold.
• Do not skip security updates for a long time.
• Do not reset Windows before trying safer troubleshooting steps.
• Do not use cracked Windows repair tools.

These mistakes can make the update error worse or expose your PC to security risks.

Expert Tips to Prevent Windows Update Errors

After learning how to fix Windows Update error, you should also know how to prevent the problem from coming back. A few simple maintenance habits can help Windows Update run more smoothly.

• Keep at least 25 GB free on your system drive.
• Restart your PC at least once a week.
• Keep drivers updated from official sources.
• Avoid interrupting updates.
• Use a stable internet connection.
• Remove unused apps.
• Turn on Storage Sense.
• Back up important files regularly.
• Check Windows Release Health before major upgrades.
• Keep Windows Security enabled.
• Avoid unknown driver updater tools.
• Install updates when your laptop is connected to power.
• Do not delay important security updates for too long.

These steps help Windows Update run more smoothly and reduce failed installations.

In many real-world cases, Windows Update failures are caused by several smaller issues happening together, such as low storage space, outdated drivers, interrupted downloads, damaged system files, or software conflicts rather than a single major problem.

Conclusion

Learning how to fix Windows Update error is important because updates keep your PC secure, stable, and compatible with the latest software. Most Windows Update errors in 2026 can be fixed by following a safe troubleshooting order: restart your PC, check your internet connection, free up storage, run the Windows Update troubleshooter, repair system files with DISM and SFC, reset update components, update drivers, check known issues, and manually install the failed update if needed.

For Windows 11 users, these steps should solve most update problems. For Windows 10 users, the situation is different because regular support ended on October 14, 2025, so upgrading to Windows 11 or using an official support option is the better long-term solution.

While some update failures are temporary and resolve after a restart, others may require deeper troubleshooting depending on system condition, driver compatibility, or corrupted update files.

A Windows Update error can feel frustrating, but in most cases, it does not mean your computer is broken. With the right step-by-step troubleshooting method, you can learn how to fix Windows Update error safely and get your PC updated again.

How to Fix Windows Update Error FAQs

1. How to Fix Windows Update Error Quickly?

To fix Windows Update error quickly, restart your PC, check your internet connection, free up storage space, and run the Windows Update troubleshooter from Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run.

2. Why does Windows Update keep failing?

Windows Update may keep failing because of corrupted update files, low disk space, damaged system files, stopped update services, outdated drivers, internet problems, or known Microsoft update bugs. Understanding the cause is the first step in learning how to fix Windows Update error correctly.

3. How to Fix Windows Update Error using Command Prompt?

Open Command Prompt as administrator and run DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth first. After it finishes, run sfc /scannow to repair damaged Windows files.

4. What does Windows Update error 0x80073712 mean?

Windows Update error 0x80073712 usually means an update file is damaged or missing. The best fix is to run DISM and SFC, then restart your PC and check for updates again.

5. Is it safe to manually install a Windows update?

Yes, it is safe if you download the update only from the official Microsoft Update Catalog. Always check the failed KB number and choose the correct version for your system.