Windows Update Errors
Use these steps to repair Windows Update when downloads fail, get stuck, or show error codes.
Tip: Ensure you have stable internet and at least 10–20 GB of free disk space before updating.
Quick Repairs
- Run Windows Update Troubleshooter: Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters → Windows Update.
- Restart and try updates again.
Repair System Files
Warning: Commands below require an Administrator Command Prompt and may take time to complete.
sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Success Tip: Reboot after SFC/DISM, then check Windows Update again.
Reset Update Components
Use these commands to stop services, rename caches, and restart:
net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start bits
net start wuauserv
Note: This clears the update cache. You may see Windows re-download patches.