Windows Update keeps failing? How to reset its components

⚡ Fast fix

• Run Windows Update Troubleshooter. Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot.
• Repair system files. Run Command Prompt as an administrator and enter commands to fix errors.
• Stop Update Services. In the Services Manager, stop Windows Update and rename the SoftwareDistribution and catroot2 folders, then restart the services.
• Restart your PC. After restarting, check for updates again.

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Updates should fix security flaws, improve your device's performance, and bring new exciting features, but they don’t always run smoothly. Hitting a snag with a new update is incredibly frustrating, and the worst part is that you may not know what to do next.

Fortunately, sometimes all you need to do to successfully update your system is reset Windows™ Update components. The reset should get you past persistent error codes or a repeatedly failing update so you can get back to using your computer as usual.

Asurion Experts are here to walk you through the process, just like we’ve helped millions of people troubleshoot and learn more about their tech. Here’s our guide on how to reset Windows Update components.

What are Windows Update components, and when should you reset them?

Windows Update components are temporary storage directories, like the SoftwareDistribution and catroot2 folders, plus the background services that manage updates. Together, they help download, verify, and install updates on your computer.

If you’re running into issues installing a Windows Update, you may need to reset these components. Signs that a Windows Update reset is worth trying include:

• The update fails repeatedly.
• You keep getting persistent error codes, like the Windows 11® system service exception error.
• Your update gets stuck at a specific download percentage.

However, a delay in a Windows Update isn't necessarily a sign you need to try a Windows Update reset. Your computer could just be downloading a large feature update on a slow internet connection.

How to reset Windows Update components

Follow these steps to reset Windows Update components:

1. Press the Windows key.
2. Type cmd, and right-click Command Prompt.
3. Choose Run as administrator and select Yes to confirm.
4. Type net stop wuauserv and press Enter.
5. Type net stop cryptSvc and press Enter.
6. Type net stop bits and press Enter.
7. Type net stop msiserver and press Enter.
8. Typeren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old and press Enter.
9. Typeren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old and press Enter.
10. Type net start wuauserv and press Enter.
11. Type net start cryptSvc and press Enter.
12. Type net start bits and press Enter.
13. Type net start msiserver and press Enter.
14. Close the command window and restart your computer.

Try Windows' built-in troubleshooting tools

Another option is running the Windows Update troubleshooter from Settings. Simply select Settings > System > Troubleshoot. The troubleshooter will find and hopefully walk you through fixing any issues with the update.

Also, try repairing system files with the System File Checker and DISM tools for deeper corruption. The System File Checker may also be useful if you’re dealing with other common Windows 11 issues.

What to do if updates still fail

If you’ve tried resetting Windows Update components and Windows troubleshooting tools without success, try looking for a specific error code. Knowing the specific error code for the update problem you’re dealing with may help you implement more targeted fixes.

As a last resort, if Windows Update remains broken, consider factory resetting a PC. Just keep in mind that a factory reset can lead to data loss if you don’t have all your files backed up to the cloud or an external drive. Try to regularly back up your files to avoid this issue.

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FAQ

How do I reset Windows Update components in Windows 10?

In Windows 10, running the Windows Update troubleshooter is slightly different than in Windows 11.

1. Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security.
2. Select Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
3. Choose Windows Update > Run the troubleshooter.
4. Follow the additional on-screen instructions to run the troubleshooter.

You still need to open Command Prompt as an administrator, stop update services, rename update folders, restart services, and restart your computer.

How to reset Windows 11 update components?

Open Command Prompt as an administrator to reset Windows 11 update components. Then, stop the core update services, rename the SoftwareDistribution and catroot2 folders, and restart the update services. Close the command window and restart your PC.

How do you revert back to an old Windows update?

Sometimes, if you’re having an issue with an update, you can solve it by going back to the previous version.

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update history.
2. ChooseUninstall updates and select the specific update you’re having an issue with.
3. Select Uninstall.