If a Windows update fails, try these steps: 1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter. 2. Restart Windows Update and BITS services. 3. Clear the SoftwareDistribution folder. 4. Run DISM and SFC scans to fix system corruption. 5. Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software.

If a Windows update fails to install, several troubleshooting methods can help resolve the issue.

The operating environment of this tutorial: Dell XPS 13, Windows 11

1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

This built-in tool automatically detects and fixes common problems that prevent updates from installing correctly. It checks for issues such as service disruptions, network settings, or corrupted components related to Windows Update.

• Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
• Find "Windows Update" and click "Run."
• Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any recommended fixes.

2. Restart the Windows Update Services

Corrupted or stalled services can block the update process. Manually restarting these services clears temporary errors and resets the update mechanism.

• Press Win R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
• Locate "Windows Update," right-click it, and select Stop.
• Do the same for "Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)."
• Restart both services by right-clicking and selecting Start.
• Try installing the update again.

3. Clear the SoftwareDistribution Folder

This folder stores temporary update files. If files become corrupted during download, clearing the folder forces Windows to download them again fresh.

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
• Type net stop wuauserv and press Enter to stop the update service.
• Type net stop bits and press Enter to stop background transfer.
• Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution and delete all contents inside.
• Restart the services using net start wuauserv and net start bits.
• Check for updates again.

4. Use DISM and SFC Scans

System file corruption can cause update failures. The Deployment Imaging Service and Management (DISM) tool repairs the Windows image, while the System File Checker (SFC) restores missing or damaged system files.

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
• Run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and wait for completion.
• After DISM finishes, run sfc /scannow.
• Restart your computer once both commands complete and attempt the update again.

5. Temporarily Disable Third-Party Antivirus Software

Some security programs interfere with Windows Update processes by blocking access to critical files or services. Temporarily disabling them allows the update to proceed without interruption.

• Right-click the antivirus icon in the system tray.
• Select an option like "Disable protection" or "Turn off temporarily."
• Limit the disable period to 10–15 minutes to maintain system safety.
• Immediately check for updates after disabling.
• Re-enable protection as soon as the update begins installing.

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