One of the most frequent issues users face is Windows updates getting stuck. This can be quite frustrating because users often don't know how long they need to wait before the update completes. Additionally, some users aren't sure if the update is truly stuck or just running slowly. This article provides guidance on how to handle such situations.

Regular updates for applications and operating systems are crucial as they introduce new features and improve performance and security. Given this importance, many Windows users aim to install these updates immediately after Microsoft releases them. However, numerous users have reported the same issue: Windows updates getting stuck.

Common Scenarios Where Windows Updates Get Stuck

When initiating a Windows update, the process typically runs silently in the background until the available updates are listed. Users can select which updates to install or install them all at once. Following that, they must wait for the installation to finish (your computer might restart several times during this process). Yet, many users encounter updates that seem to freeze.

• Windows update stuck at checking for updates/checking your PC
• Windows update stuck at downloading updates/progress bar not moving
• Windows updates stuck on a blue screen/installation frozen during updates

Tip: To avoid losing important data during the update process, it's advisable to back up your files beforehand. However, if you find yourself without a backup and files appear to be missing, use the reliable recovery tool from the homepage to retrieve them.

What Leads to Windows Update Sticking

A variety of factors can cause Windows updates to get stuck. Based on user feedback, the most likely culprits include software conflicts, existing system issues, and problems with the updates themselves.

[Updated 2021] How To Retrieve Lost Files After a Windows Update?

Determining Whether Windows Update Is Truly Stuck

How long does a Windows 10 update take? The duration of the Windows 10 update process can vary significantly, from a few minutes to several hours or even a full day.

• On an HDD-installed system, the update process typically takes 90 minutes or longer.
• With an SSD, the update usually takes between 10 and 30 minutes.

Is your Windows update taking too long? If the Windows 10 updates remain stuck at one point for over three hours, it’s safe to conclude that the process has stalled. At this point, you should address the issue.

Methods to Resolve Windows 10 Update Sticking or Freezing

Try the following solutions if your Windows update freezes.

#1. Use Windows Update Troubleshooter

1. Press Windows I.
2. Go to Update & Security.
3. Navigate to Troubleshoot in the left menu.
4. Select Windows Update in the right section.
5. Click on Run the troubleshooter and wait for it to complete.
6. Follow the on-screen prompts to proceed.

#2. Access the Login Screen

1. Press Ctrl Alt Del to reach the login screen.
2. Log in as usual.

This is a swift solution for a stuck Windows 10 update.

#3. Restart Your Computer

• Turn off your computer by pressing the power button and then turn it back on.
• Alternatively, use the reset button.
• Additionally, try starting your PC in Safe Mode to resolve the issue.

#4. Clear Windows Update Cache

1. Press Windows S.
2. Search for cmd.
3. Right-click on Command Prompt.
4. Choose Run as administrator.
5. Type net stop wuauserv and press Enter.
6. Type net stop bits and press Enter.
7. Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution and delete all files within it.
8. In the Command Prompt window, type Remove-Item -path c:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution and press Y to confirm.
9. Restart your computer.

If the problem resolves, repeat steps 1 through 4 to execute net start wuauserv and net start bits.

#5. Perform System Restore

Performing a system restore can undo recent changes, which is particularly helpful if there’s an issue with the Windows installation. You can access System Restore from Safe Mode or the Advanced Startup Options. Choose an appropriate restore point for the system.

#6. Try Startup Repair

If System Restore fails, consider using the automatic repair feature. Access Startup Repair from the Advanced Startup Options screen and follow the on-screen instructions.

#7. Reset Your PC

If the above methods fail, resetting your PC is another option.

1. Press Windows I.
2. Select Update & Security.
3. Move to Recovery.
4. Click on the Get started button under Reset this PC.

How To Factory Reset Windows 10: Comprehensive Guide.

#8. Clean Install Windows

If the problem persists, performing a clean installation of your Windows system remains a viable solution. This will remove your previous Windows copy and erase the system drive, allowing you to reinstall Windows from scratch.

Additional Fixes for Stuck Windows Updates:

• Create a quick-fix batch file
• Update your computer’s BIOS
• Test memory, inspect CPU and RAM
• Update Windows using Media Creation Tool
• Update Windows via Microsoft Update Catalog

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