What to Do When Windows Update Gets Stuck

When Windows Update Gets Stuck

Windows updates are important for security, but sometimes they get stuck. Here is how to get things moving again.

How Long Should Updates Take?

Before troubleshooting, know that some updates take a while:

• Small updates: 10-30 minutes
• Feature updates: 1-3 hours
• Major upgrades: 2-4 hours or more

If your computer shows a percentage and it has not changed in over an hour, it may be stuck.

Do Not Force Shut Down During Updates

If you see "Working on updates" or a percentage:

• Do not turn off your computer
• Do not unplug it
• Wait at least 2-3 hours before assuming it is stuck
• Forcing shutdown during updates can damage Windows

Fixing Stuck Downloads

If updates are stuck downloading:

Clear the Update Cache

• Press Windows key + R
• Type services.msc and press Enter
• Find Windows Update and right-click > Stop
• Open File Explorer and go to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
• Delete everything inside this folder
• Go back to Services and right-click Windows Update > Start
• Try checking for updates again

Check Your Internet Connection

• Make sure you are connected to the internet
• Try a different network if possible
• Avoid using mobile hotspots for large updates

Fixing Stuck Installation

If updates are stuck installing:

Wait Longer

Some updates genuinely take hours. Leave your computer overnight if needed.

Restart and Try Again

If stuck for more than 3 hours:

• Hold the power button for 10 seconds to force shut down
• Turn your computer back on
• Let Windows attempt to complete or roll back the update
• This may take another hour

Boot into Safe Mode

• Force restart your computer 3 times in a row (during boot)
• This triggers Automatic Repair
• Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings
• Restart and press 4 for Safe Mode
• Once in Safe Mode, restart normally

Running the Update Troubleshooter

• Open Settings (Windows key + I)
• Go to System > Troubleshoot
• Click Other troubleshooters
• Find Windows Update and click Run
• Follow the prompts

Manually Installing Updates

If automatic updates fail:

• Go to the Microsoft Update Catalog (search for it online)
• Search for the KB number shown in your failed update
• Download the correct version for your system
• Run the downloaded file to install manually

Preventing Future Problems

• Keep at least 20GB of free space on your main drive
• Do not interrupt updates once they start
• Schedule updates for times when you do not need your computer
• Restart your computer at least once a week

When to Contact IT

Contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au if:

• Updates have been stuck for more than 4 hours
• You get the same error repeatedly
• Your computer will not start after an update
• You are unsure whether to force restart

Need Help?

For stuck Windows updates, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.