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How to Fix Windows 10 Media Creation Tool Not Working: Step-by-Step Solutions

The Windows 10 Media Creation Tool is a useful utility for updating, reinstalling, or creating bootable installation media for Windows 10. However, sometimes the tool might not work as expected, causing frustration.

This guide will help you troubleshoot and fix common problems with the Media Creation Tool. The steps are simple and easy to follow, even if you are not very tech-savvy.

By the end, you should be able to resolve most issues and use the tool successfully. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into detailed solutions.

Follow each step carefully, and don’t skip any important instructions to avoid further problems.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Check your internet connection: A stable internet connection is essential because the tool downloads Windows files from Microsoft servers.
  • Free disk space: Ensure you have at least 8 GB of free space on your PC or USB drive where the tool will save files.
  • Run as administrator: Always run the Media Creation Tool with administrator rights to avoid permission issues.
  • Disable antivirus temporarily: Sometimes security software blocks the tool from working properly. Temporarily disabling antivirus can help.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix the Media Creation Tool

1. Restart Your PC and Try Again

Many errors can be fixed simply by restarting your computer. This clears temporary files and resets background processes that might interfere with the tool.

  1. Save any open work.
  2. Click the Start menu, select Power, and then click Restart.
  3. After rebooting, right-click the Media Creation Tool and choose Run as administrator.

2. Check Date and Time Settings

Incorrect system date and time can prevent the tool from connecting to Microsoft servers.

  1. Click the clock on the taskbar and select Date and time settings.
  2. Toggle on Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically.
  3. If needed, click Sync now to update the time immediately.
  4. Close the settings and attempt to run the tool again.

3. Disable VPN and Proxy Connections

VPNs and proxies can interfere with the download process by changing network routes. Disable them temporarily.

  1. Open Settings and go to Network & Internet.
  2. Click VPN and disconnect any active VPN.
  3. Go to Proxy and turn off any manual proxy setup.
  4. Try running the Media Creation Tool again.

4. Clear Temporary Files

Old temporary files can cause conflicts. Clearing them can help the tool run smoothly.

  1. Press Win + R, type %temp%, and hit Enter.
  2. In the folder that opens, select all files and delete them. If some files are in use, skip those.
  3. After clearing, restart your PC and run the Media Creation Tool.

5. Use the Media Creation Tool Troubleshooter

Windows offers built-in troubleshooters that can fix common update and installation problems.

  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  2. Click Additional troubleshooters.
  3. Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any fixes suggested.
  5. Try the Media Creation Tool again after completing the troubleshooter.

6. Rename or Delete the Software Distribution Folder

This folder stores temporary files related to Windows Update. Sometimes, corrupted files here cause errors with the tool.

  1. Press Win + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
net start wuauserv
net start bits
  1. Close the window and restart your PC.
  2. Open the Media Creation Tool and check if it works now.

7. Download the Tool Again from the Official Microsoft Website

Your download might be corrupted. Downloading a fresh copy ensures you have the latest and uncorrupted version.

8. Try Using the Media Creation Tool on Another PC

If the tool still doesn’t work, try running it on a different computer. This helps determine if the problem is with your PC or the tool itself.

  1. Download the tool on another computer.
  2. Create the installation media or ISO file there.
  3. Use the created media on your original PC.

Alternative Method: Use the Windows Update Assistant

If the Media Creation Tool continues to fail, the Windows Update Assistant is another official Microsoft tool you can try. It helps you upgrade your PC to the latest Windows 10 version.

  • Download it from the same Microsoft page.
  • Run it and follow the on-screen prompts to upgrade your system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does the Media Creation Tool say “Something went wrong”?

This generic error may be due to network issues, corrupted files, or permission problems. Follow the troubleshooting steps above to fix it.

Can I run the Media Creation Tool on Windows 7 or 8?

Yes, the tool supports Windows 7, 8, and 10. Just make sure your system meets the minimum requirements and you run it as administrator.

Is it safe to disable antivirus during the Media Creation Tool process?

Temporarily disabling antivirus can help, but only if you download the tool from the official Microsoft website. Remember to enable your antivirus again after finishing.

What if the tool gets stuck at a certain percentage?

Wait for some time, as large files may take longer to download. If it remains stuck for hours, try restarting your PC and follow the troubleshooting steps.

Can I use the Media Creation Tool to create installation media for Windows 11?

No, the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool only works for Windows 10. For Windows 11, you need to download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant from Microsoft.

When Nothing Works

If none of these solutions fix the problem, consider the following final options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the Microsoft Support website for help.
  • Use a third-party tool cautiously: Some third-party utilities claim to create Windows installation media, but use them only if you trust the source.
  • Reset your PC: As a last resort, performing a system reset or clean install may be necessary. Back up your important files before doing this.

Conclusion

Fixing the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool not working issue is usually straightforward when you follow basic troubleshooting steps. Checking your internet, system settings, and permissions first often resolves the problem.

If simple fixes don’t help, clearing system files or downloading a fresh copy of the tool usually does the trick. Alternative methods like the Windows Update Assistant can also be useful.

Remember to be patient and methodical while troubleshooting. With these tips, you should be able to create your Windows 10 installation media successfully.

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