Windows Update Stuck? Simple Fixes | Fintech Shield
- Kalyan Bhattacharjee
- Apr 29
- 3 min read

Overview
Let's be real—there's nothing more frustrating than sitting there, waiting for your computer to update, only to realize... it's stuck. Whether it's hanging at 20%, stuck on “Getting Windows ready,” or seemingly frozen for hours, it’s enough to test anyone’s patience.But don’t worry—you’re not alone. And the good news? There are some simple ways to fix it. Let’s break it down.
Why Do Windows Updates Get Stuck?
First, a quick look behind the scenes. Windows updates can get stuck for a few reasons:
Slow internet connection causing download issues.
Corrupt update files
Low disk space
Software conflicts (like third-party antivirus programs)
Background processes interfering with installation
Knowing the cause can help you choose the right fix faster!
Step-by-Step: What to Do If Windows Update Is Stuck
Here’s a game plan you can follow:
Wait a Little Longer
I know, I know—you’ve already waited. But sometimes, updates look stuck when they’re actually working in the background.If it hasn’t moved for at least 2-3 hours, then it’s time to take action.
Restart Your PC
Good old-fashioned reboot.
Hold the power button down until your PC turns off.
Wait a few seconds, then turn it back on.

Windows will usually detect the interrupted update and either finish it or roll it back automatically.
Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows comes with a built-in tool just for this:
Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters
Find Windows Update and click Run. Let it scan and fix common issues for you.

Clear Windows Update Cache
If corrupted files are the culprit, clearing the update cache often does the trick:
Type CMD in the search bar, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.

Type these commands one by one:
net stop wuauserv net stop bits
Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
Delete everything inside the SoftwareDistribution folder.

Then, go back to Command Prompt and type:
net start wuauserv net start bits
Now try updating again!
Free Up Some Space
Updates need room to breathe.If your hard drive is nearly full, it could choke the update process. Try deleting unnecessary files, or move some stuff to an external drive or cloud storage.
Disable Third-Party Antivirus (Temporarily)
Sometimes antivirus software can be overprotective. Temporarily disabling it during the update can help. Just don’t forget to turn it back on once you're done.
Perform a System Restore
If nothing else works, roll your system back to a time before the update:
Search for Create a restore point in Windows.
Under the System Protection tab, click System Restore.

Follow the steps and choose a restore point when things were working fine.

Key Takeaways
Windows updates are important for security and performance, but yeah—they don't always go smoothly. Next time you find yourself stuck on an update, try these simple steps. Most of the time, you can fix the issue without needing professional help (and without smashing your laptop out of frustration!).
And remember:👉 Always back up your important files before doing major updates—just in case.
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