Windows Update Not Installing on Windows 11? (Step-by-Step Fix Guide)

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Windows Update Not Installing on Windows 11? (Step-by-Step Fix Guide)

Windows Update keeps Windows 11 secure, stable, and up to date. But sometimes updates fail, get stuck, or show confusing error codes. This beginner-friendly guide explains why it happens and how to fix Windows Update step by step.

In this guide you’ll learn:

  • Common reasons Windows Update fails
  • Easy fixes anyone can follow
  • Advanced steps if basic fixes don’t work
  • What popular error codes mean


Example: Windows Update issues can include errors, failed installs, or updates stuck at a percentage.

Common Reasons Windows Update Fails

Most Windows Update problems happen because of one (or more) of these reasons:

  • Corrupted update cache (downloaded files are damaged)
  • Unstable internet connection (downloads fail or time out)
  • Not enough disk space (updates can’t unpack/install)
  • Incorrect date/time (security verification can fail)
  • Driver or software conflicts (especially after big updates)

Start with the easy fixes below. In most cases, you won’t need advanced steps.

Fix 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter (Recommended)

This is the safest and easiest solution for beginners.

  1. Open StartSettings
  2. Go to SystemTroubleshoot
  3. Select Other troubleshooters
  4. Find Windows Update
  5. Click Run and follow the on-screen steps

Tip: The Troubleshooter can automatically fix common update issues.

Fix 2: Check Internet and Power Connection

Windows Update needs a stable connection and uninterrupted power.

  • Plug in your laptop (if applicable)
  • Use stable Wi-Fi or Ethernet
  • Restart your router if downloads are failing

Then try Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.

Fix 3: Confirm You Have Administrator Access

Some updates require administrator permissions.

  • Go to Settings → Accounts → Your info
  • Confirm you’re using an account with Administrator privileges

If you’re on a work/school PC, you may need to contact the administrator.

Fix 4: Disconnect External Devices

External devices can interfere with updates during installation or reboot.

  • USB drives
  • External SSD/HDD
  • Docking stations
  • Non-essential peripherals

Disconnect them, restart your PC, then try updating again.

Fix 5: Clear the Windows Update Cache (Very Effective)

If cached update files are corrupted, updates may fail repeatedly. Clearing the cache often fixes it.

  1. Press Win + R
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter
  3. Find Windows Update → right-click → Stop
  4. Open File Explorer and go to: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
  5. Delete everything inside the folder
  6. Go back to ServicesWindows UpdateStart



Clearing SoftwareDistribution removes broken update cache files so Windows can re-download clean files.

Note: Windows will recreate these files automatically.

Fix 6: Check Date and Time Settings

Wrong date/time can cause update verification to fail.

  1. Open Settings → Time & language
  2. Enable Set time automatically
  3. Enable Set time zone automatically
  4. Click Sync now (if available)

Fix 7: Free Up Disk Space

Windows needs enough storage to download and install updates.

  • 32-bit Windows: at least 16 GB free
  • 64-bit Windows: at least 20 GB free

Quick ways to free space:

  • Settings → System → Storage (enable Storage Sense)
  • Delete unused downloads and large files
  • Remove apps you don’t use

Fix 8: Restart and Check Updates Again

After applying the fixes above:

  1. Restart your PC
  2. Open Settings → Windows Update
  3. Click Check for updates
  4. Install all updates (some may appear in multiple rounds)

Common Windows Update Error Codes (What They Mean)

If you see an error code, use this table to understand the cause and what to try first.

Error Code Likely Cause Best First Fix
0x8007000d Corrupted update files/cache Fix 5 (clear cache) + restart
0x800705b4 Timeout / update stuck too long Fix 1 + Fix 2 + restart
0x80240034 Incomplete update / connection issue Fix 2 + Fix 5
0x800f0922 Low disk space / component install issue Fix 7
0x80070057 / 0x80080005 Corrupted system files / config issue Advanced (DISM/SFC) below
0xC1900101 Driver compatibility conflict Update drivers + disconnect devices
0x80248014 Update database/service issue Fix 5 + Advanced reset
0x80070005 Access denied / permission Fix 3 (admin) + restart
0x80070002 Missing update files Fix 5 (clear cache)

Advanced Fix (If Nothing Works): Reset Windows Update Components

Warning: Try this only after the basic fixes above. You need administrator access.

  1. Type cmd in the Start menu
  2. Right-click Command PromptRun as administrator
  3. Copy and paste the commands below, one by one, pressing Enter after each line:
net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
ren %systemroot%\softwaredistribution softwaredistribution.bak
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 catroot2.bak
net start bits
net start wuauserv

Restart your PC, then run: Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.

Optional: Repair System Files (DISM + SFC)

If updates still fail, system files might be damaged. Run these as admin:

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
sfc /scannow

Wait until sfc reaches 100%, then restart and try updating again.

FAQ (Beginner Questions)

Why is Windows Update stuck at 0% or 99%?

This is usually caused by a corrupted update cache, slow background services, or unstable internet. Try Fix 1, then Fix 5.

Is it safe to delete files in the SoftwareDistribution folder?

Yes. Windows recreates these files automatically. This step is commonly used to fix update failures.

Can I disable Windows Update permanently?

Not recommended. Updates are critical for security and stability.

What should I do before trying advanced steps?

Backup important files, ensure you have admin access, and try all basic fixes first.

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