What to Do When Windows Update Keeps Failing on Windows 10

Windows 10, a widely used operating system around the world, often faces various issues despite its widespread adoption. One common problem is the recurring failure of the Windows Update feature, which prevents users from updating their systems.

If you're experiencing issues where Windows Update keeps failing on your Windows 10 system, this article provides a comprehensive starting point for troubleshooting.

Maintaining an up-to-date operating system is crucial. Microsoft regularly releases updates for Windows 10 to address issues, introduce new features, and enhance performance. These updates are essential for patching security vulnerabilities, reducing the risk of attacks, and ensuring your computer runs smoothly and efficiently.

Numerous users encounter error messages when the Windows Update fails, such as "Windows Update failed to install" or "Install failed." In some cases, there might be no error message at all, yet the update process remains stuck and doesn't progress.

Read » How to Resolve Windows Update Stuck on Download After Windows 10 Upgrade

What Leads to the Windows Update Failure Error?

Several factors can contribute to the Windows Update failing repeatedly. Here are some of the most common reasons based on user feedback:

• Corrupted or Missing System Files: These files are essential for the proper functioning of your device. If they become corrupted or are accidentally deleted, it can lead to Windows Update failures.
• Outdated Drivers: Drivers are necessary for components not inherently compatible with Windows 10, such as graphic and network cards. An outdated driver can interfere with the update process.
• Problems with the Windows Update Service: Issues directly related to the update service itself can be the cause. If this is the issue, alternative methods to download the latest Windows 10 update are provided below.

Remember, the list above isn't exhaustive. You may encounter this error due to a unique issue on your system. However, the methods outlined below should help you resolve the error, regardless of its cause.

Don't panic if you're unable to update Windows 10 due to these errors. They can be fixed easily by following the detailed guides below.

Note: An administrator account is required to perform all the steps described below.

8 Methods to Address Windows Update Failure Errors

1. Utilize the Windows Update Troubleshooter tool
2. Restart services associated with Windows Update
3. Reset Windows Components to resolve the issue
4. Conduct a System File Checker (SFC) scan
5. Use the DISM command
6. Temporarily deactivate your antivirus
7. Revert Windows 10 to a previous backup
8. Update the Windows operating system

#1. Utilize the Windows Update Troubleshooter tool

The initial step is to employ the Windows Update Troubleshooter tool, which is built into the system. It can automatically identify and resolve common Windows Update issues. Here’s how to use it:

1. Press Windows key I to launch the Settings app
2. Select Update & Security
3. Click on Troubleshoot
4. Choose Additional troubleshooters
5. Select Windows Update
6. Click Run the troubleshooter
7. Follow the instructions that appear on your screen

#2. Restart services associated with Windows Update

Another approach to fix Windows Update errors is to restart the services related to Windows Update. This can help if the service is malfunctioning. Follow these steps:

1. Press Windows key R to open the Run dialog box

2. Enter "services.msc" and hit Enter
   

3. Find these services:

   1. Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
   2. Cryptographic Services
   3. Windows Update
   4. MSI Installer

4. Right-click each service and choose Restart

5. After restarting all services, attempt to run Windows Update again

#3. Reset Windows Components to resolve the issue

Resetting Windows Components can address your problem. This method is similar to the previous one but is executed through the command prompt.

1. Press Windows key R, then type cmd
   
2. This opens the command prompt.
3. Stop Windows components by entering these commands and pressing Enter after each:
   • net stop bits
   • net stop wuauserv
   • net stop appidsvc
   • net stop cryptsvc
4. Enter this command and press Enter: Ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
5. Enter this command and press Enter: Ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
6. Start Windows components by entering these commands and pressing Enter after each:
   • net start bits
   • net start wuauserv
   • net start appidsvc
   • net start cryptsvc
7. Restart your computer and try updating Windows again to check if the error persists.

This could be all that's needed to fix the Windows Update failing error.

#4. Conduct a System File Checker (SFC) scan

To fix Windows Update failing errors, you can also run the System File Checker (SFC) scan. This tool searches for and repairs corrupted or missing system files that might be causing the update error. Follow these steps:

1. Press Windows key X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin)
   
2. Type "sfc /scannow" and press Enter. Ensure there is a space between sfc and the forward slash.
   
3. Wait for the scan to finish (it may take some time)
4. Restart your computer and see if Windows can now update

#5. Use the DISM command

If the SFC scan doesn't resolve the Windows Update error, try using the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) command. Similar to the SFC scan, DISM can repair corrupted system image files that might be causing the update error. Here’s how to use it:

1. Press Windows key X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin)
   
2. Type "DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth" and press Enter. Ensure there is a space before every forward slash.
   
3. Wait for the scan to complete (it may take some time)
4. Restart your computer

#6. Temporarily deactivate your antivirus

Sometimes, your antivirus software might interfere with the Windows Update process. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus and then run Windows Update again to resolve this. Follow the instructions provided by your antivirus software manufacturer to disable it.

#7. Revert Windows 10 to a previous backup

If none of the above methods work, consider restoring your Windows 10 system from a backup. This will return your system to a previous state where Windows Update was functioning correctly. Here’s how:

1. Open the Settings app
2. Click on Update & Security
3. Click on Backup
4. Select Go to Backup and Restore (Windows 7)
5. Click on Restore my files
6. Follow the on-screen instructions

#8. Update the Windows operating system

Lastly, keeping your Windows operating system updated is vital. Microsoft frequently releases updates and patches to fix bugs and enhance system performance. To check for and install updates, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app
2. Click on Update & Security
3. Click on Windows Update
4. Click on Check for updates
5. If updates are available, click on Download and install

Regularly checking for and installing updates is recommended to prevent future Windows Update failing errors.

Before you leave, watch this video on resolving Windows Updates Failed errors:

Final Thoughts

Dealing with Windows Update failing errors can be frustrating, but with the right approach, these issues can be resolved. You can tackle the problem by using the Windows Update Troubleshooter tool, restarting related services, resetting Windows components, running the SFC scan, executing the DISM command, temporarily disabling antivirus software, restoring from a backup, and keeping your Windows operating system up to date.

By following these steps, you can ensure your Windows Update is functioning properly, keeping your system secure and up to date.

One more thing

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