How to Fix Windows Update Errors in Windows 10 and Windows 11

Windows Update plays a key role in keeping your system up to date and secure. However, errors can sometimes occur, preventing updates from downloading and installing. In this guide, we’ll explore the main ways to resolve issues with Windows Update on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

1. Restart Your Computer

It may sound simple, but restarting your computer often resolves temporary glitches and issues affecting Windows Update services.

2. Check Your Internet Connection

Ensure you have a stable internet connection. If your connection is unstable or unavailable, it can cause problems with downloading updates. Try restarting your router or switching to a different network.

3. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter to automatically fix issues with Windows Update. To use it:

  1. Open Settings (press Win + I).
  2. Go to Update & Security → Troubleshoot.
  3. Select Additional troubleshooters and click on Windows Update.
  4. Click Run the troubleshooter.

4. Clear the Windows Update Cache

Sometimes, the Windows Update cache can get corrupted, causing errors. To clear the cache, follow these steps:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator (press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin)).
  2. Enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each: 
    net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
del /f /s /q %windir%\SoftwareDistribution
net start wuauserv
net start bits
  3. Restart your computer and check for updates again.

5. Check System File Integrity

Windows Update errors can sometimes be caused by corrupted system files. To check and repair them, use these commands:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Type the following command: 
    sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete, and follow any on-screen instructions if issues are found.

6. Update Device Drivers

Some Windows updates may conflict with outdated device drivers. Update your drivers through the Device Manager:

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Look for devices with a warning icon (yellow exclamation mark) and update their drivers.

7. Reset Windows Update Components

If none of the above methods work, try resetting the Windows Update components:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Enter the following commands: 
    net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptsvc
net stop bits
ren %windir%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren %windir%\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptsvc
net start bits
  3. Restart your computer.

8. Manually Download Updates from the Microsoft Update Catalog

If automatic updates fail, you can manually download them from the Microsoft Update Catalog. Find the update you need by its code (e.g., KB5005565) and download it directly.