Tuesday, August 26, 2025

How to Fix “Windows 10 Update Stuck” Problem








 

You're trying to update Windows 10, but it gets stuck at 0%, 100%, during “Preparing to install”, or in a restart loop. This issue is often due to corrupted update files, system glitches, or software conflicts.

Solution 1: Wait Patiently (Yes, Really!)

Sometimes updates just take a long time.

  • Especially on older systems, allow 2–3 hours before assuming it’s frozen.

  • If your system is stuck for more than 3 hours with no change, move on to other fixes.

Solution 2: Reboot the PC

Steps:

  1. If you’re stuck at the update screen, force shut down the system by holding the power button for 10 seconds.

  2. Wait 1 minute, then restart.

  3. The update may roll back or resume properly.

Solution 3: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Steps:

  1. Go to Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot.

  2. Click Additional troubleshooters.

  3. Select Windows Update → Click Run the troubleshooter.

  4. Let it detect and fix the problems.

Solution 4: Clear Windows Update Cache (SoftwareDistribution Folder)

This is a very effective method to fix stuck updates.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + X, select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).

  2. Run the following commands one by one:

net stop wuauserv
net stop bits

  1. Navigate to the folder:

C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution

  1. Delete all files/folders inside.

  2. Now start services again:

net start wuauserv
net start bits

  1. Restart your PC and try updating again.

Solution 5: Use DISM and SFC to Repair System Files

Corrupted files can cause update issues.

Steps:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

  2. Run these commands:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow

  1. Wait for the process to complete.

  2. Restart and check for updates again.

Solution 6: Disable Antivirus/Firewall Temporarily

Third-party antivirus software can block updates.

Steps:

  1. Temporarily disable your antivirus.

  2. Turn off any third-party firewalls.

  3. Reattempt the update.

  4. Re-enable protection after successful update.

Solution 7: Use the Windows 10 Update Assistant

Steps:

  1. Visit the official Microsoft site: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

  2. Download the Update Assistant tool.

  3. Run it and follow on-screen instructions to complete the update.

Solution 8: Install Update via Media Creation Tool (MCT)

Steps:

  1. Go to: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

  2. Download and run the Media Creation Tool.

  3. Choose Upgrade this PC now.

  4. Follow prompts to install the latest updates manually.

Solution 9: Boot into Safe Mode and Retry Update

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.

  2. Go to the Boot tab → check Safe boot → select Minimal → Click OK.

  3. Restart your PC into Safe Mode.

  4. Try updating again via Settings → Update & Security.

  5. Once complete, go back to msconfig and uncheck Safe Boot to return to normal mode.

Solution 10: Check Disk Space

Lack of space can block updates.

Steps:

  1. Go to Settings → System → Storage.

  2. Free up at least 20 GB on the C: drive.

  3. Use Disk Cleanup or uninstall unnecessary apps/files.

🔧 Bonus Tip: Use “Show or Hide Updates” Tool (Microsoft)

Sometimes specific updates are faulty. You can hide them using this official tool: