Windows Update stuck or failing? What to do

Stuck on "Working on updates"

• Wait at least an hour if the drive light flickers or the percentage creeps up. Interrupting can cause more problems.
• If nothing has changed for 2+ hours, hold the power button to turn it off, then start it again. Windows usually finishes or rolls back.

Update keeps failing

1. Free up space. Big updates need 20 GB or more free.
2. Run the troubleshooter: Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters → Windows Update → Run.
3. Unplug extras like USB drives, docks and printers, then try again.
4. Restart twice and try again from Settings → Windows Update.
5. Note the error code (like 0x80070002). Searching it on Microsoft's support site explains the cause.

Still on Windows 10?

Windows 10 stopped getting free security updates in October 2025. If your PC can't run Windows 11, it's time to plan ahead. See Repair or replace?