How to Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter (Full Guide)

If Windows Update is stuck, fails with an error, or repeatedly offers the same update, start with Microsoft's built-in Windows Update troubleshooter. On current Windows 11 systems, Microsoft recommends the automated troubleshooter in the Get Help app. You can also reach Windows Update troubleshooting from Settings. If that does not solve the problem, the steps below cover the safest next checks before you try a repair reinstall.

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter in Windows 11

Method 1: Use Get Help

1. Open Start, search for Get Help, and open the app.
2. Search for windows update troubleshooter.
3. Follow the prompts. The tool runs diagnostics and can suggest or apply fixes for common Windows Update problems.

This is the route Microsoft currently recommends in its Windows troubleshooters documentation.

Method 2: Run it from Settings

1. Press Windows + I and open System.
2. Select Troubleshoot, then Other troubleshooters.
3. Find Windows Update and select Run.
4. When it finishes, restart the PC if prompted.

After the restart, go to Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates. Install anything available, then restart again if Windows asks you to.

What about Windows 10?

On Windows 10, the Settings path is Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run the troubleshooter. However, standard Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Most Windows 10 PCs no longer receive free security updates; eligible systems may use Extended Security Updates, while LTSC editions follow separate lifecycles. Microsoft recommends moving to a supported Windows 11 release when possible. See the official Windows 10 release information.

If the troubleshooter does not fix Windows Update

Before using command-line repairs, try the basics Microsoft lists in its Windows Update troubleshooting guide: keep the PC connected to reliable internet and power, sign in with an administrator account when required, make sure the system drive has free space, and disconnect nonessential external drives, docks, or other hardware. A normal restart can also finish a pending servicing operation.

Check Update history and the KB number

Open Settings > Windows Update > Update history. If a specific cumulative update failed, note its KB number. That identifier is much safer to use than downloading a vaguely named update from the web.

Use Microsoft Update Catalog only for a known update

If Windows Update cannot download a specific package and you already know the KB number, search the official Microsoft Update Catalog. Choose the entry that matches your Windows release and processor architecture, such as x64 or ARM64. Follow the KB article's installation instructions because some cumulative updates can have prerequisites or multiple packages. Do not assume every download is a CAB file or that a CAB can be launched like an EXE.

Repair Windows system files with DISM and SFC

If update components or protected system files are damaged, open Command Prompt as administrator. Run these commands in this order:

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

Let DISM finish before starting SFC. Microsoft documents this sequence in Using System File Checker in Windows. When both commands are complete, restart Windows and try Windows Update again.

Last resort on Windows 11: repair the current Windows installation

On supported Windows 11 PCs, Settings > System > Recovery > Fix problems using Windows Update can reinstall the same Windows version and repair system files and components while preserving your apps, files, and settings. Keep the PC connected to power and the internet throughout the process. Microsoft explains the option in its Windows repair reinstall guide.

If that option is unavailable, your device may be managed by an organization, may not meet the feature requirements, or may need another recovery path. Back up important files before using reset, advanced startup, or clean-install options.