Unable to Configure or Complete Windows 10 Updates: How to Fix It?

Encountering the “Unable to Configure or Complete Updates” error during a Windows 10 update can be frustrating, especially when updates are essential for your system’s security and performance. This guide will explore the causes behind this issue and offer proven solutions to help resolve it.

Common Causes of the Windows 10 Update Error

Before diving into solutions, let’s examine some primary causes of this error:

  • Lack of Disk Space: Insufficient storage on your system drive can prevent updates from installing.
  • Corrupted System Files: Sometimes, damaged system files interfere with the update process.
  • Antivirus Interference: Certain antivirus programs may mistakenly block Windows updates.
  • Network Issues: Unstable internet connections can disrupt the download and installation of update files.
  • Windows Update Service Errors: Problems within the Windows Update service itself can prevent updates from completing.

Solutions to Fix the “Unable to Configure or Complete Updates” Issue

1. Restart Your Computer and Try Again

Sometimes, a simple restart can solve the problem. Reboot your system and try installing the updates again, as this can often resolve minor issues.

2. Free Up Disk Space

Ensure there’s enough free space on your system drive (usually C:). Delete unneeded files or transfer them to an external drive, and aim for at least 20-30 GB of free space for updates to install smoothly.

3. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows 10 has a built-in troubleshooter that can diagnose and fix issues with updates:

  1. Go to Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot.
  2. Select "Windows Update" and run the troubleshooter.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your system once the troubleshooter completes.

4. Temporarily Disable Your Antivirus Software

Some antivirus programs can interfere with the update process. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus software while updating, and remember to enable it once updates are complete.

5. Check and Repair System Files

Running the sfc /scannow command can help restore any corrupted system files:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator (right-click on the Start button → Command Prompt (Admin)).
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete, then restart your computer.

6. Reset Windows Update Components

If none of the above solutions worked, try resetting Windows Update components. This can help fix persistent issues with updates:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver

After running these commands, restart your computer and attempt the update again.