How to Fix Windows Update Error? 5 Easy Fixes

Keeping Windows Up to date is a crucial part of your overall Windows system’s health and security. However, this task is not always a breeze. Windows update error can be a real hassle. Not only does it prevent you from getting the latest security updates and features, but it also makes your computer run slow and sometimes causes other programs to crash.

We have already seen the different Windows Update error codes, in this article, we will discuss 5 different ways to fix them. We’ll also give you some suggestions on how to prevent this error from occurring. Let’s get started!

How to Prevent Windows Update Error

Generally, Windows can automatically install updates without an issue. Still, there are times when user settings or other miscellaneous problems may prevent the Operating System from completing its job. Oftentimes, the major causes are:

• Updates on queue: Sometimes updates are waiting in a queue, causing the system to hang. To fix this issue, try canceling all pending updates and restarting the computer.
• Corrupt update file: Corrupt update file can also cause the system to show Windows Update Error. To fix this issue, run the DISM command to repair the corrupt files and replace them with a fresh copy.
• Third-party software: Third-party software can interfere with the installation of updates. To solve this, try disabling all third-party programs temporarily.
• Malware: Malware can damage update files and cause the system to show a Windows Update Error. To fix this issue, run a good antivirus program and scan your computer for any malicious files.
• Limited space on drive: Windows needs a certain amount of space to update itself. If you don’t have enough free space available on your drive, the system will not be able to update. To fix this issue, make sure you have enough free space on your drive by deleting unwanted files or uninstalling unnecessary programs.
• Conflict with external hardware: External hardware can also conflict with Windows Update. To fix this issue, try disconnecting any external devices such as pen drive, printer, etc, and run the update again.

How to Fix Windows Update Error

There are a few good ways to fix Windows Update Error. By completing these steps in this particular order, there is a good chance that you will be able to resolve any Windows Update errors without too much hassle:

FIX 1: Check Your Internet Connection

It may be obvious, but the first thing you should do is check your internet connection. If there is a problem with your internet, Windows will not be able to install updates.

While surfing the internet with a web browser may seem like an easy solution, using Command Prompt is actually more efficient for testing the internet connection. To ensure that your internet connection is functioning correctly, follow these steps:

1. To launch the Command Prompt, press Win + R to open the Run window. Then type “cmd” into the given space and press Enter.
   
2. To verify that you have an established internet connection, type "ping google.com" and hit Enter.
3. Verify that your reply is received without any pocket loss.

Note: To illustrate, we’ve used the Google domain as a reference point; however, you can also ping other domains or services.

Before attempting to upgrade the OS, always check for the network error and contact your Internet Service Provider in case of a network issue. That way, you can ensure that your updates will be successful!

FIX 2: Run DISM Command to Repair Corrupt File

If the software update was unable to be installed due to a corrupt file, you could use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) command to repair the corrupt files.

To use this tool, follow these steps:

1. Open the Command Prompt window with administrator privileges, as mentioned earlier.
2. Type “DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth” and press Enter to execute the command.
3. Wait for the DISM command to finish running. This might take a few minutes.
4. After the command has been executed, try installing updates again and see if it works now.

FIX 3: Resume Windows Update Settings

If you’re having trouble downloading Windows Updates, try checking the Update settings. Sometimes, the settings can be altered and cause issues. Resuming the process again might help to resolve any issues you are experiencing.

To fix this issue, follow these steps:

1. On your Windows system, click on the Start button and select Settings.
2. Select Update & Security under the “Settings” window.
3. Under “Windows Updates,” click the Resume updates button.

FIX 4: Use Window Update Troubleshooter Tool

When difficulties arise with any Windows component, there are several troubleshooting options available right in the Windows menu, including Windows Updates. Window Update Troubleshooter Tool is a built-in diagnostic tool that can help you resolve any Windows Update issues.

To use this tool, follow these steps:

1. Click on the Start button and choose Settings from the Start Menu.
2. Select Update & Security under Windows Settings.
3. Switch to the Troubleshoot tab on the left pane and select Additional troubleshooters on the right.
4. Look for the Windows Update troubleshooter and select it.
5. Click the Run the troubleshooter button.
6. Windows will now look for the problems.
7. After the troubleshooting is completed, Windows will list the problems and possible solutions.

FIX 5: Windows 10 Backup Restoration

If all else fails, you may need to resort to a Windows 10 Backup restoration. This will allow you to restore your system files and settings as if it were the time of your last successful backup.

You can follow the steps to complete the backup restoration process:

1. Launch the Run dialog box by pressing Win + R keys together.
2. Type rstrui in the Run dialog box and hit Enter.
   
3. This will launch the System Restore wizard. Click Next to proceed.
4. Now select a restore point from the list of available points created either automatically or manually by you and click Next to continue.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish up the system restore process.

Conclusion

Windows Update Error is an issue that can cause the system to malfunction. To fix this issue, it is recommended to run a good antivirus program and scan your computer for any malicious files. Make sure you have enough free space on your drive. Try disconnecting any external devices when installing the update.

By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to fix any Windows Update Error that you may encounter. Keep in mind that there are other options available if these methods don’t work for your particular case. If ever you require assistance, Microsoft customer service is always available to help.

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