Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you use them, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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
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.
- Open Start → Settings
- Go to System → Troubleshoot
- Select Other troubleshooters
- Find Windows Update
- Click Run and follow the on-screen steps
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.
- Press Win + R
- Type
services.mscand press Enter - Find Windows Update → right-click → Stop
- Open File Explorer and go to:
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution - Delete everything inside the folder
- Go back to Services → Windows Update → Start
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.
- Open Settings → Time & language
- Enable Set time automatically
- Enable Set time zone automatically
- 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:
- Restart your PC
- Open Settings → Windows Update
- Click Check for updates
- 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.
- Type cmd in the Start menu
- Right-click Command Prompt → Run as administrator
- 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.
댓글 쓰기