Help articles · Windows 10 and 11
Fix Windows updates that won't install
Failed updates are common and rarely serious. These steps clear the usual causes without any risk to your files.
Restart and try again
Many updates fail once and install fine after a restart. Restart the PC and check for updates again.
Free up disk space
Updates need room to download and install. If your drive is nearly full, clear space first (see our disk space guide).
Run the Update troubleshooter
Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters → Windows Update → Run. It fixes many common faults automatically.
Leave time and power
Big updates can take a while and need the PC on and plugged in. Don't shut it down mid-update.
Check for enough space and retry
After clearing space and troubleshooting, go back to Windows Update and try once more.
Still not working?
If an update keeps failing with the same error, send us the error code — we can reset the update components remotely.
Last updated 06 November 2026