Blog

How to Fix KB5005635 Update Errors on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Windows updates are essential to keep your system secure and running smoothly. However, sometimes updates like KB5005635 can encounter errors during installation. These errors can be frustrating but are often fixable with simple steps.

This guide will walk you through easy and clear solutions to resolve KB5005635 update errors on Windows 11. No advanced knowledge is required, and each step is explained in detail.

By following this step-by-step approach, you will increase the chances of successfully installing the update without issues. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the fixes.

Remember, patience is key when dealing with update problems. Many solutions involve restarting your PC and running built-in tools that take only a few minutes.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

  • Stable Internet Connection: Ensure your PC is connected to the internet, as updates require downloading files from Microsoft servers.
  • Enough Disk Space: Verify that you have at least 10 GB of free space on your system drive (usually C:). Updates won’t install if there isn’t enough room.
  • Temporary Disable Antivirus: Sometimes, third-party antivirus software interferes with updates. Temporarily disable it before trying to install the update again.
  • Windows Version: Check that your Windows 11 installation is up to date with the latest service stack updates, as these improve update reliability.

Step 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The easiest and safest way to fix update errors is by using the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter. This tool automatically detects and fixes common problems.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Windows Update in the list and click Run next to it.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooter will scan for issues and apply fixes wherever possible.
  5. After completion, restart your PC and try installing the KB5005635 update again.

Why this step helps: The troubleshooter can reset update components, clear corrupted files, and fix registry errors that block updates.

Step 2: Clear the Windows Update Cache Manually

Sometimes, corrupted files in the update cache prevent new updates from installing. Clearing this cache can solve many update errors.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. Scroll down and find the Windows Update service.
  4. Right-click it and select Stop.
  5. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution.
  6. Delete all the files and folders inside the SoftwareDistribution folder.
  7. Go back to the Services window, right-click Windows Update and select Start.
  8. Restart your PC and try updating again.

Why this step helps: Removing cached update files forces Windows to download fresh copies, eliminating corrupted data that might cause errors.

Step 3: Use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) Tool

If Windows system files are damaged, updates may fail to install. DISM is a built-in tool that repairs Windows images and system corruption.

  1. Click the Start button, type cmd, then right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This process can take several minutes. Wait patiently until it completes.

  1. Once done, type the following command and press Enter to check for corrupted system files:
sfc /scannow

This will scan and repair any corrupted system files automatically.

After these commands finish, restart your PC and attempt the update again.

Why this step helps: Fixing system corruption ensures that Windows Update has a clean environment to apply patches and updates.

Step 4: Reset Windows Update Components Using Command Prompt

If clearing the cache didn’t work, resetting all update components can help fix deeper issues that block updates.

  1. Open an elevated Command Prompt as described in Step 3.
  2. Run the following commands one by one. Press Enter after each command:
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

These commands stop update-related services, rename cache folders to force recreation, and then restart the services.

Once complete, restart your PC and try the update again.

Why this step helps: Resetting update components can clear deeper issues related to services and cached data that simple clearing might miss.

Step 5: Download and Install the KB5005635 Update Manually

If automatic updates still fail, manually downloading the update can bypass some problems.

  1. Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.
  2. In the search box, type KB5005635 and press Enter.
  3. Find the version that matches your Windows 11 system architecture (x64 or ARM64).
  4. Click Download next to the correct update.
  5. Once downloaded, open the file to start the installation.
  6. Follow the prompts and restart your PC when finished.

Why this step helps: Manual installation avoids problems related to Windows Update service and lets you control the update process directly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does the KB5005635 update fail to install?

Common reasons include corrupted update files, system file corruption, insufficient disk space, or interference from antivirus software.

Is it safe to disable antivirus during updates?

Yes, temporarily disabling third-party antivirus software can help prevent interference with the update process. Just remember to enable it again afterward.

Will these fixes delete my personal files?

No. These steps target system files and update components only, so your personal data remains safe.

How long does the DISM and SFC scan take?

Depending on your system speed, DISM can take 10-20 minutes and SFC about 5-10 minutes. It’s best to avoid interrupting these scans.

What if the update still won’t install after all these steps?

Try the “When Nothing Works” solutions below for more advanced help.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the above steps and still face errors installing KB5005635, consider the following options:

  • Run Windows Update Assistant: Download the Windows 11 Update Assistant from Microsoft to upgrade your system manually.
  • Perform a Repair Install: This reinstalls Windows without deleting your files and can fix deep system issues.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the Microsoft Support site for personalized help.
  • Join Microsoft Community Forums: Many users share solutions and advice for update problems at Microsoft Answers.

Conclusion

Update errors like those with KB5005635 on Windows 11 can often be resolved with simple tools and methods. Starting with the Windows Update Troubleshooter and moving through cache clearing, system scans, and manual installs covers most issues.

By following these steps carefully and patiently, you can keep your Windows 11 system up to date and secure. If problems persist, advanced options and official support channels are available to assist.

Regular updates are important, so don’t ignore errors—fixing them promptly maintains your PC’s health and performance.

Leave a Reply