Windows Update Service Missing from Services: How to Fix It

If the Windows Update service is missing from the Services list (services.msc), you might encounter issues when trying to update your system or install new features and security patches. In this guide, we’ll cover why this issue might occur and how to resolve it.

Why Is the Windows Update Service Missing?

There can be several reasons for the service to disappear, including:

  • System errors or crashes: Abrupt shutdowns or issues during the update process can corrupt service files.
  • Malware activity: Certain viruses or malware might disable the update service to prevent the system from installing updates that could remove them.
  • Manual disablement: Some users or third-party system optimization tools might disable or delete the service to boost performance.
  • Registry issues: Manual changes or alterations by third-party programs can sometimes cause the service to disappear from the registry.

Solutions to Restore the Windows Update Service

1. Restore the Service via Registry Editor

If the service is missing, you can restore it by making changes in the registry. Follow these steps:

  1. Press Win + R and type regedit to open the Registry Editor.
  2. Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\wuauserv.
  3. If the wuauserv folder is missing, create it by right-clicking on Services, selecting New → Key, and naming it wuauserv.
  4. Create two new values within the wuauserv folder:
    • DisplayName (String Value) with the data: @%SystemRoot%\system32\wuaueng.dll,-105.
    • ImagePath (String Value) with the data: %systemroot%\system32\svchost.exe -k netsvcs -p.
  5. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.

Check if the service is restored. If not, try the next method.

2. Using Command Prompt to Recreate the Service

You can also restore the service using the Command Prompt with administrative privileges:

  1. Press Win + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin)” or PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Enter the following commands, pressing Enter after each one:
sc create wuauserv binpath= "C:\Windows\system32\svchost.exe -k netsvcs -p"
sc config wuauserv start= auto
sc start wuauserv

These commands will create the Windows Update service and set it to start automatically.

3. Run System File Checker

If the issue persists, it could be due to corrupted system files. Use the built-in tools to check and repair these files:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Run the command sfc /scannow and wait for the scan to complete.
  3. Afterwards, run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth to fix any component store issues.

Restart your computer after completing these scans.

4. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows also includes a built-in troubleshooter for fixing update issues:

  1. Open Settings (Win + I) and go to “Update & Security” → “Troubleshoot”.
  2. Select “Windows Update” and click “Run the troubleshooter”.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your computer once the process is complete.