Windows Update 2022: How to Fix an Update If It Got Stuck

Sophie Webster, Tech Times 23 March 2022, 09:03 pm

Windows Update works silently as it downloads updates automatically and you don't really have to do anything. A Windows Update will install the ones that it can and saves others from installing when you restart your computer.

However, there are instances when it freezes and just stops working. Luckily, there are ways that you can fix the Windows Update yourself when it gets frozen or stuck.

A failed update often happens on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, or Windows 11, but it often happens with Windows 7. Sometimes, updates will error out, or sometimes it just gets stuck on the message that says "Searching for Updates."

Fix Windows Update Issue Via Troubleshooter on Windows 11

Windows have a built-in troubleshooter that may be able to help fix a stuck update. It is the easiest method to try, so it is best to run it first.

The troubleshooter will check for issues that could cause Windows Update to fail, like incorrect security settings, issues with services, or missing or corrupted files, according to HowtoGeek.

Also Read: Windows Users Beware: Update Stops Microsoft Defender for Endpoint to Start for SOME

All modern versions of Windows use the same type of troubleshooter, but the process for accessing it depends on the version of Windows that you have.

If you are using Windows 11, you can find it in Settings, then Troubleshoot, and under Other Troubleshooters.
Other Troubleshooters collects most of the troubleshooters Windows comes with into one area. You need to look for a troubleshooter labeled "Windows Update."

If you have never used it before, you will need to scroll down a bit so you can find it. Otherwise, it might be in the "Frequents" list. Once you find it, just click on "Run." As soon as the troubleshooter begins, follow the recommendations.

Fix Windows Update with a Troubleshooter on Other Versions

The troubleshooter is also available on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11. It is accessible through the Control Panel in all versions of Windows as of 2022, according to LifeWire.

To run the troubleshooter, just click the "Start" button, look for "Troubleshooting," and then run the "Troubleshooting" shortcut by pressing Enter if it is highlighted.

In the list of troubleshooters, under the "System and Security" section, just click on the message that says "Fix Problems with Windows Update."

In the Windows Update troubleshooting window, just click on "Advanced."

In the advanced settings, just make sure that you "Apply Repairs Automatically" check box is enabled, click "Run as Administrator" and click on "Next."

The troubleshooter works through its process and it allows you to identify and fix the issue. Most of the time, the troubleshooter can remove a stuck update from the queue, according to TechRadar.

Once you are done, try running the Windows Update again. Even if the troubleshooter says it could not identify the problem, it is possible that the actions of starting and stopping the service and clearing out the cache worked.

Fix Windows Update by Deleting the Cache

Boot Windows into Safe Mode. On Windows 7, restart your computer and press the "F8" key on your computer while it boots to access the options menu, where you will find a "Safe Mode" option.

For Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11, just hold down the Shift key as you click the "Restart" option in Windows and navigate to Troubleshoot, then go to Advanced Options, then Windows Startup Settings, click on Restart, and select Safe Mode.

If you are using Windows 11, you can schedule an update.

If you are using Windows 10 and you are experiencing gaming issues after an update, you can restart your PC again as Microsoft has already fixed the bug.