How to Fix Windows Update Stuck Issue

Windows updates are crucial for maintaining system security, fixing bugs, and improving performance. However, users often encounter the frustrating Windows Update stuck issue, where updates get stuck at a specific percentage (e.g., 0%, 35%, 99%) or freeze on “Preparing to install updates.” If you’re facing this issue, don’t worry! This guide will walk you through multiple solutions to fix Windows Update stuck issue efficiently.

Why Does the Windows Update Get Stuck?

Before diving into the solutions, it’s essential to understand why Windows Update gets stuck in the first place:

• Slow Internet Connection – An unstable or slow network can delay update downloads.
• Corrupt Windows Update Files – Damaged update files can prevent successful installations.
• Insufficient Disk Space – Updates require free space; if the system drive is full, updates may fail.
• Conflicting Software or Drivers – Third-party applications, especially antivirus software, may interfere with updates.
• Windows Update Services Not Running – The update process relies on background services that may stop unexpectedly.
• Hardware Issues – Faulty RAM, hard drives, or outdated drivers can cause update failures.

Now that we understand the possible causes, let’s go through the fixes.

Methods to Fix Windows Update Stuck Issue

1. Restart Your Computer

Before trying advanced solutions, perform a simple restart:

1. Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and select Restart.
2. If your system is completely frozen, press and hold the Power button until the PC turns off.
3. Turn it back on and check if the update resumes.

If this doesn’t work, move on to the next step.

2. Check Your Internet Connection

Since Windows updates rely on an internet connection, a slow or unstable network can cause Windows Update to get stuck.

1. Restart your modem/router.
2. Connect to a stable Wi-Fi or use an Ethernet cable.
3. Run a speed test using Fast.com or Speedtest.
4. If the connection is slow, try updating later or switch to a different network.

3. Free Up Disk Space

Lack of storage can prevent updates from installing. To check your disk space:

1. Open File Explorer (Win + E) and go to This PC.
2. Check available space on the C: Drive.
3. If space is low, delete unnecessary files:
   • Empty the Recycle Bin.
   • Use Disk Cleanup:
     • Press Win + R, type cleanmgr, and hit Enter.
     • Select C: Drive, check all boxes, and click OK.
   • Uninstall unused programs from Control Panel > Programs and Features.

4. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Microsoft provides a built-in troubleshooter to fix update issues.

1. Open Settings (Win + I) and go to System > Troubleshoot.
2. Click Other Troubleshooters.
3. Under Most Frequent, click Run next to Windows Update.
4. Follow on-screen instructions to apply fixes.

5. Restart Windows Update Services

Manually restarting update services can resolve stuck updates.

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Find Windows Update in the list.
3. Right-click and select Stop.
4. Also, stop the Background Intelligent Transfer Service and Cryptographic Services.
5. Restart them by right-clicking and selecting Start.

6. Delete Software Distribution Cache

Clearing the Windows Update cache can fix corruption issues.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Run these commands one by one:
   arduino

   CopyEdit

   net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
net stop cryptsvc

3. Navigate to the SoftwareDistribution folder:
   • Open File Explorer, go to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution, and delete all contents.
4. Restart update services:
   sql

   CopyEdit

   net start wuauserv
net start bits
net start cryptsvc

5. Restart your PC and check if the issue is resolved.

7. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupt system files can interfere with Windows updates. Running SFC and DISM scans can repair them.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type the following command and hit Enter:
   bash

   CopyEdit

   sfc /scannow

3. Once the scan completes, restart your PC.
4. If the issue persists, run the following commands:
   swift

   CopyEdit

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

5. Restart your computer and try updating again.

8. Update Windows Manually

If automatic updates fail, you can install updates manually.

1. Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.
2. Search for the update using its KB number (find it in Windows Update history).
3. Download and install the update manually.

---

9. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot disables unnecessary services that may interfere with updates.

1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
2. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
3. Switch to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
4. Disable all startup programs and restart your PC.
5. Try updating Windows again.

10. Reset Windows Update Components

If all else fails, resetting Windows Update components might help.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Run these commands one by one:
   pgsql

   CopyEdit

   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

3. Restart your PC and try running Windows Update again.