1. Check your computer’s Internet connection: Many Windows Update problems can be attributed to an unreliable Internet connection, especially if you’re trying to patch over a wireless connection. If you’re having frequent connection issues, try a wired connection instead.
2. Restart your computer: A simple restart of your computer may be enough to solve some Update problems. Be sure to save any open documents or projects before restarting.
3. Make sure Windows Update is enabled: Windows Update can be disabled in the Control Panel under System and Security. If this is the case, make sure it is enabled to allow updates to run.
4. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter: This troubleshooter typically can resolve any update-related issues that you are having with your computer. It’s an automated tool that can detect and fix specific problems encountered related to Windows Update. To access it, open the Action Center and then select “Troubleshooting” followed by “Fix problems with Windows Update”.
5. Clear out the SoftwareDistribution folder: After running the Windows Update troubleshooter, you should also clear out the SoftwareDistribution folder. This may help if the issue is caused by outdated files or a large download size. To clear the SoftwareDistribution folder, open the Command Prompt and type “net stop wuauserv”. Then, locate the SoftwareDistribution folder (usually C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution) and delete its contents. Once you have done this, you can restart the service again by typing “net start wuauserv” into Command Prompt.
6. Run System File Checker (SFC): This helps to scan and replace any corrupted system files that may be causing the update problems. To do this, open the Command Prompt as an administrator and type “sfc /scannow”. Let the scan finish and follow any instructions the program gives you.
7. Uninstall any recent programs and drivers: If you have recently installed any programs or drivers on your computer, they may be preventing Windows Update from working properly. Uninstall any recent programs and drivers to regain access to Windows Update.
8. Check for malware/viruses on your computer: Sometimes malware and viruses can prevent Windows Update from running correctly. Use an anti-malware program to scan your computer for any malicious software that may be causing the issue.
9. Reset Windows Update components: If none of the above steps work, then try resetting the Windows Update components. To do this, open the Command Prompt as an administrator and type “net stop wuauserv”, followed by “net stop bits” and “net stop cryptsvc”. Then, type “ren %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old” to rename the SoftwareDistribution folder. Finally, type “net start wuauserv”,“net start bits” and “net start cryptsvc” to restart all three services.
10. Repair or reinstall Windows: As a last resort, you may need to reinstall or repair Windows to get Windows Update working again. Repairing Windows will keep your files and settings intact, while reinstalling Windows will delete all of your data and require a clean install.