Monday, August 4, 2025

Windows Update Stuck? Fix Endless Loading Screen

 














🔍 Symptoms

  • “Working on updates…” message stuck for hours
  • Endless spinning circle or frozen progress bar
  • System reboot loop during update
  • Update stuck at 0%, 20%, 100%, etc.

⚙️ Step-by-Step Fixes

✅ 1. Wait It Out (Up to 30 Minutes)

Sometimes updates appear stuck but are still processing. If the system is responsive, give it time before intervening.

🔄 2. Restart Your PC

  • Press Ctrl + Alt + Del to check if Task Manager opens
  • If unresponsive, hold the power button for 10 seconds to force shutdown
  • Restart and check if update resumes or rolls back

🧰 3. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters
  • Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter
  • Follow on-screen instructions to auto-fix common issues

🧹 4. Clear Windows Update Cache

  • Boot into Safe Mode:
    • Press Shift + Restart > Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Enable Safe Mode
  • Open Command Prompt as admin and run:

    • net stop wuauserv net stop bits rd /s /q C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution net start wuauserv net start bits

  • Restart your PC and try updating again

🛠️ 5. Use DISM & SFC to Repair System Files

  • Open Command Prompt as admin and run:

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

  • These tools fix corrupted files that may block updates

🧯 6. Advanced Recovery Options

If nothing works:

  • Boot into Advanced Startup Options
  • Try System Restore, Startup Repair, or Uninstall Updates

🧠 Why It Happens

  • Corrupted update files
  • Low disk space
  • Conflicting software or drivers
  • Interrupted internet connection

📌 Pro Tip

Always back up your system before major updates. And keep at least 20GB free on your system drive to avoid update failures