How to fix 'Get the newer version of Windows to stay up to date' error?

The message “Get the newer version of Windows to get the latest news” is shown whenever your current Windows installation is out of the main software lifecycle. Typically, this happens with older feature updates for Windows 10 or 11 that are no longer receiving technical support or security updates.

Microsoft sends this prompt to the users to upgrade to a newer version of Windows to ensure that they can get the important updates, have the chance to fix security weaknesses, and use up-to-date software that is compatible with modern devices.

This particular message is most of the time associated with systems that are still using older Windows 10 versions, or earlier Windows 11 builds that are already out-of-extended support. In the event of Windows 11, for example, the devices using the feature update 21H2 or the latest one like 24H2 may face this message while Microsoft is updating its devices and phasing out the older ones. It serves as a warning that not being able to install the security protocol and software can be the cause of security risks and software incompatibility to your PC if you do not upgrade.

In many cases, users see this prompt due to issues with update settings or download errors that prevent newer builds from installing automatically. A common scenario involves devices that have paused or delayed updates for extended periods, which can cause them to fall behind the supported lifecycle.

Alternatively, hardware or software compatibility issues may prevent the system from meeting the requirements for the latest version of Windows, leading to stalled updates and repeated notifications.

Ignoring this message can result in reduced functionality over time, as unsupported versions of Windows are no longer optimized for performance or security. Persistent issues may benefit from using FortectMac Washing Machine X9 PC repair tool, which can automatically detect and resolve Windows-related problems to ensure your system stays up to date.

Fix 1. Run the Windows update troubleshooter

The built-in troubleshooter can automatically detect and fix many update-related issues.

• Type in Troubleshoot in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Select Additional Troubleshooters/Other troubleshooters option.
• Locate Windows Update and click Run/Run the troubleshooter.
• Apply the recommended solutions.

Fix 2. Verify Windows update settings

Sometimes, paused or deferred updates can cause your system to remain on an outdated version. Reviewing your update preferences ensures the system can search for and install updates.

• Type Updates in Windows search and press Enter.
• Check if updates are paused; if yes, resume updates.
• Click Check for updates to manually initiate the process.

Fix 3. Free up disk space

Insufficient storage can prevent the installation of newer Windows builds. Making space ensures there’s room for temporary files and the update itself.

• Type Disk Cleanup in Windows search and hit Enter.
• If your Windows is installed on drive C, pick it from the list (should be by default) and press OK.
• Click Clean up system files.
• Select your main drive again and click OK.
• Here, select the largest portions of the data used – these typically include Temporary Internet Files, Windows Update, Temporary Files, Recycle Bin, Delivery Optimization Files, and others. Marking Windows Update is vital here.
• Click OK – the process should be finished shortly.

Fix 4. Disable third-party antivirus software

Overzealous antivirus settings can block updates from installing correctly. Temporarily disabling such programs can prevent interference.

• Open your antivirus program.
• Navigate to the settings.
• Temporarily turn off real-time protection.

Fix 5. Reset Windows update components

Corrupted components can block updates. Resetting them clears issues and lets the system restart the update process.

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
• The User Account Control (UAC) window will ask whether you want to allow changes to your computer – click Yes.
• Stop the Windows Update-related services by running the following commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each one:
  net stop wuauserv
  net stop cryptSvc
  net stop bits
  net stop msiserver
• Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders by running the following commands:
  ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
  ren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 Catroot2.old
  Note: If your Windows installation is not on the C drive, replace “C” with the appropriate drive letter.
• Restart the Windows Update-related services by running the following commands:
  net start wuauserv
  net start cryptSvc
  net start bits
  net start msiserver
• Reboot your system.

Fix 6. Manually install the update

Downloading and installing the update directly from the Microsoft Update Catalog bypasses common issues.

• Type in Update in Windows search and press Enter.
• Click View Update History on the right side of the window.
• From the list of updates, note the KB number of the one that failed to be installed.
• Go to Microsoft Update Catalog.
• Here, type in the KB number and click Search.
• Pick the version that is compatible with your operating system (ignore updates for the server) and click Download.
• Proceed with on-screen instructions and restart Windows once done.

Fix 7. Perform an in-place upgrade

An in-place upgrade reinstalls Windows without removing files, resolving deeper system issues.

• Visit the official Microsoft website and download Windows 10 installation media (Windows 11 version).
• Double-click the installer and select Yes when UAC shows up.
• Agree to terms.
• Select Upgrade this PC now and select Next
• Windows will now download all the necessary files – it might take a while.
• Agree to terms once again and click Next.
• Before installing, make sure that you are happy with your choices (otherwise, you can click Change what to keep option).
• Finally, click Install to begin the upgrade process.

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