What to Do If Windows 10 Won’t Update

Updating Windows 10 is crucial for security, performance improvements, and receiving new features. However, users often encounter issues while attempting updates, resulting in frustration. This blog post dives into various reasons why Windows 10 may not update and provides practical solutions. From removing third-party security software to increasing system drive space, each measure aims to help users get back on track with the latest Windows updates. By exploring each section, you’ll find detailed steps and insights to resolve common update problems efficiently and safely.

Why Windows 10 Won’t Update

There are several reasons why Windows 10 may face issues during updates. Often, it’s a combination of software conflicts, insufficient space, or service interruptions. Identifying what causes the stall in updates can save valuable time and frustration.

One prominent issue is hardware and driver conflicts. Outdated drivers might be incompatible with new updates, halting the process entirely. Additionally, corrupted system files and fragmented hard drive space can also play roles in blocking updates. Understanding these causes is the first step in troubleshooting update issues.

Remove Third-party Security Software

Third-party antivirus programs, while useful for protecting your system, can sometimes interfere with Windows updates. These programs can block the update process, misconstruing update files as potential threats.

To eliminate this possibility, temporarily disabling or uninstalling your third-party security software might help. Once you’ve removed the software, attempt the update again. After the update is completed successfully, you’ll have the option to reinstall the security software if desired.

Check Windows Update Utility Manually

Sometimes Windows updates are ready but not initiated due to an automatic check failure. By manually checking for updates, you can ensure that no updates are pending installation. Open the Settings app, navigate to “Update & Security,” and select “Windows Update.”

By clicking on “Check for updates,” the system will scan to see if updates are available. If they are, you can then proceed with the download and installation. Ensuring that this utility functions correctly helps in maintaining an up-to-date system.

Keep All Services about Windows Update Running

Windows Update relies on several background services to perform efficiently. Disruptions or stoppages in these services can prevent updates. It is essential to keep services such as the Windows Update Service, Background Intelligent Transfer Service, and others running.

To check if these services are active, use the service manager by typing “services.msc” into the Run dialog. From here, ensure relevant services are set to “Automatic” startup type and are currently running, adjusting as necessary to facilitate updates.

Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a dedicated tool designed to diagnose and fix update issues. It is an effective first step in addressing problems, as it automatically detects inconsistencies and attempts to rectify them.

Access the troubleshooter by navigating to “Update & Security” in settings and selecting “Troubleshoot.” Once selected, follow prompts to allow the tool to scan and address the underlying causes affecting updates.

Restart Windows Update Service by CMD

Restarting the Windows Update service using the Command Prompt (CMD) can clear lingering issues leading to update failures. This method allows you to reset core components used by the update mechanism.

Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges, and execute commands to stop and start the update service, such as “net stop wuauserv” followed by “net start wuauserv.” Doing so can refresh any stuck processes, allowing updates to proceed normally.

Increase Free Space of System Drive

Disk Clean-up

Limited storage space can hinder Windows update processes. Performing regular disk clean-ups not only improves system performance but also ensures enough space is available for updates. Utilize the built-in Disk Cleanup tool to remove unnecessary files and clear temporary data.

Launch Disk Cleanup by typing it into the search bar, choose the system drive, and follow the prompts to select the files you want to delete. This quick process can free significant space required for updates.

MiniTool Partition Wizard

Beyond basic cleaning, you might consider more advanced tools like MiniTool Partition Wizard for space management. It helps you resize partitions, facilitating more system drive space for crucial updates.

After installing the tool, it allows you to move and allocate unused space from different partitions, thereby optimizing the distribution of storage across the system. This efficient reallocation can resolve space-related update issues.

Repair Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files can disrupt the update process. Thankfully, tools like the System File Checker (SFC) and DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) offer robust solutions for such issues.

Using an administrative Command Prompt, run the command “sfc /scannow” to launch an integrity scan of system files. For further repair, DISM can fix the Windows installation itself through commands like “DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth,” making repairs as needed for smooth update processes.

Bottom Line

Maintaining up-to-date Windows 10 installations ensures optimal security and functionality. By tackling the various barriers addressed here, users can navigate through common hurdles effectively. From manual checks to advanced troubleshooting strategies, seizing control of your update process may seem daunting but is achievable through methodical and patient approaches.

Windows 10 Won’t Update FAQ

Q: Why do Windows updates fail? Software conflicts, hardware issues, and insufficient disk space are common culprits. Understanding and addressing these can resolve update failures.

Q: Can corrupted files stop Windows updates? Yes, corrupted system files can interfere with updates. Tools like SFC and DISM are invaluable for correcting these errors.

About The Author

Lucas Martin is a journalism and communications graduate passionate about creative and engaging writing. With a keen interest in travel, technology, and innovation, Lucas blends strong research skills with grammatical expertise to deliver compelling content on tech-related topics.