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How to Fix Windows 10 Build Update That Hangs: Step-by-Step Solutions

Windows 10 build updates can sometimes get stuck or hang during installation. This can be frustrating, especially if the update is critical for your system’s security and performance. Fortunately, there are several step-by-step solutions you can try to resolve this issue.

In this guide, we will walk you through simple methods to fix Windows 10 update hangs. Each step is explained clearly so even beginners can follow along easily.

By understanding why updates hang and how to troubleshoot them, you can save time and avoid unnecessary stress. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the solutions.

These tips are designed to help your PC complete the installation smoothly and get back to working normally.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Make sure your PC is connected to a stable internet connection. Updates require downloading files, and interruptions can cause hangs.
  • Ensure your device has enough free disk space. Windows updates need room to install new files.
  • Keep your laptop plugged in or your PC connected to power to avoid shutdowns during the update.
  • Disable any third-party antivirus temporarily, as it can interfere with the update process.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can fix update issues. When Windows updates get stuck, it might be due to a temporary glitch or conflict.

How to Restart:

  1. Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and select Restart.
  2. If the screen is frozen, hold down the power button for 10 seconds until the PC powers off, then press the power button again to turn it back on.
  3. After restarting, Windows may continue to attempt the update or roll back changes.

This step clears temporary files and refreshes system processes, which can resolve minor glitches causing the update to hang.

Step 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows 10 includes a built-in troubleshooter specifically for update problems. It can detect and fix common issues automatically.

How to Run the Troubleshooter:

  1. Click on the Start menu and open Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  3. Select Additional troubleshooters.
  4. Find and click on Windows Update, then choose Run the troubleshooter.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any fixes suggested.

This tool resets components related to Windows Update, which often helps when the update process is stuck.

Step 3: Clear the Windows Update Cache

The update cache stores temporary files used during installation. Sometimes, these files become corrupted and cause the update to hang.

Clearing this cache forces Windows to download fresh update files.

How to Clear the Cache:

  1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
  2. In the Services window, scroll down and find Windows Update.
  3. Right-click on it and select Stop.
  4. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:WindowsSoftwareDistributionDownload.
  5. Delete all files inside the Download folder. (Do not delete the folder itself.)
  6. Go back to the Services window, right-click on Windows Update again, and select Start.
  7. Restart your computer and try running the update again.

This process removes possibly corrupted files and allows Windows to fetch the updates again from scratch.

Step 4: Use the System File Checker Tool

Corrupted system files can prevent updates from installing correctly. The System File Checker (SFC) scans and repairs these files.

How to Run SFC:

  1. Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
  1. Wait for the scan to complete. It may take some time.
  2. If any issues are found, the tool will attempt to fix them automatically.
  3. Restart your PC and try updating again.

This tool helps fix damaged Windows files that might be blocking updates.

Step 5: Reset Windows Update Components Manually

If the issue persists, resetting Windows Update components can help fix deeper problems.

Manual Reset Steps:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (see Step 4 for how).
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
  1. Close the Command Prompt and restart your PC.
  2. Try running Windows Update again.

This resets update services and folders to their default state, often clearing stubborn update errors.

Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot

Sometimes, third-party applications or startup programs interfere with Windows Update. A clean boot disables unnecessary services to isolate the problem.

How to Perform a Clean Boot:

  1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check the box for Hide all Microsoft services.
  4. Click Disable all.
  5. Switch to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  6. In Task Manager, disable all startup items by right-clicking each and selecting Disable.
  7. Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
  8. Restart your computer and try updating again.

If the update succeeds, you can re-enable services and startup items gradually to find the culprit.

FAQs

Why does my Windows 10 update hang at a certain percentage?

Updates can hang due to corrupted files, lack of disk space, conflicting software, or system errors. Running the troubleshooter and clearing the cache often helps.

Is it safe to force shut down during a hung update?

Force shutting down can cause data loss or system corruption. Only do this if the update has been stuck for several hours and no other options work.

How long should a Windows update take?

Update times vary depending on the build size and hardware speed but typically range from 20 minutes to an hour. If it’s stuck longer, troubleshooting is needed.

Can antivirus software cause update problems?

Yes, some antivirus programs interfere with update processes. Temporarily disabling them during updates is recommended.

What if my update fails repeatedly with error codes?

Look up the specific error code online for targeted fixes. Resetting update components or running DISM tool can help in many cases.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and your Windows 10 update is still hanging, consider the following options:

  • Visit the official Microsoft Windows Update Troubleshooter page for more tools and advice.
  • Use the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft to perform an in-place upgrade. This reinstalls Windows without losing your files.
  • Back up your important data and consider a clean installation of Windows if updates continually fail.
  • Contact Microsoft Support or a professional technician for help if you’re unsure.

Conclusion

Windows 10 update hangs can be caused by various factors, but most issues can be fixed using simple troubleshooting steps. Start with restarting your PC and running the update troubleshooter. If problems persist, clearing the update cache, running system scans, and resetting update components are effective next steps.

Remember to check your internet connection, disk space, and temporarily disable antivirus software. If all else fails, performing a clean boot or using official Microsoft tools can help you complete the update successfully.

Following these steps carefully will help you resolve update hangs and keep your Windows 10 system up to date and secure.

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