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How to Fix “Can Not Find Update in Server MSI” Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Encountering the “Can Not Find Update in Server MSI” error on Windows 11 can be frustrating. This error usually happens when your system cannot locate the necessary update files during installation or update processes.

Fortunately, there are simple ways to fix this problem without needing advanced technical skills. Following a step-by-step approach will help you resolve the issue efficiently.

This guide will walk you through easy-to-understand instructions to get your updates running smoothly again on Windows 11.

Let’s start by checking some quick prerequisites before diving into the solutions.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Ensure a Stable Internet Connection: A reliable internet connection is essential because update files are downloaded from Microsoft servers.
  • Windows Update Service Running: The Windows Update service must be active to download and install updates successfully.
  • Enough Disk Space: Make sure your system drive has enough free space to store update files.
  • Administrator Access: You need to have administrator privileges to perform updates and troubleshoot installation errors.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Retry Update

Sometimes, a simple reboot can clear temporary glitches or locked files that prevent updates from installing.

  1. Click on the Start menu.
  2. Select the Power button.
  3. Choose Restart.
  4. After your PC restarts, try running the update again.

This step clears temporary cache and resets system processes, which often resolves minor errors.

Step 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows 11 has a built-in troubleshooter that diagnoses and fixes common update problems automatically.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Windows Update and click Run.
  4. Wait for the troubleshooter to detect issues and follow on-screen instructions.

This tool resets update components and fixes corrupted files, which can prevent the “Can Not Find Update in Server MSI” error.

Step 3: Check Windows Update Services

Windows update depends on certain services running in the background. If these services are stopped or disabled, updates won’t install properly.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the Services window, locate the following services:
    • Windows Update
    • Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
    • Cryptographic Services
  4. For each service:
    • Right-click and select Properties.
    • Set Startup type to Automatic.
    • If the service is not running, click Start.
    • Click Apply and then OK.

Ensuring these services are active allows your system to download and install updates correctly.

Step 4: Clear Windows Update Cache

Sometimes, corrupted cache files cause update errors. Clearing the update cache forces Windows to download fresh update files.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator:
    • Press Windows + S, type cmd.
    • Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  2. Stop Windows Update services by typing the following commands one by one and pressing Enter after each: 
    net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
  3. Delete cache files by running: 
    del /f /s /q %windir%SoftwareDistribution*.*
  4. Restart the services: 
    net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
  5. Close Command Prompt and try the update again.

This process clears outdated or corrupted files that can block updates.

Step 5: Manually Download and Install the Update

If the automatic update fails, manually downloading the update package can help.

  1. Go to the Microsoft Update Catalog.
  2. Enter the update code (e.g., KB number) related to your update in the search box.
  3. Download the appropriate update file for your system (32-bit or 64-bit).
  4. Run the downloaded .msi or .exe file to install the update manually.

This method bypasses the Windows Update service and installs the update directly.

Alternative Advanced Option: Use the System File Checker

Corrupted system files can cause update errors. Running the System File Checker (SFC) scans and repairs these files.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: 
    sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. If issues are found, SFC will attempt to fix them automatically.
  4. Restart your PC and try updating again.

This tool helps ensure Windows system files are intact and working correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does the “Can Not Find Update in Server MSI” error occur?

This error often appears when Windows cannot locate the update files on Microsoft’s servers due to network issues, corrupted cache, or disabled update services.

Is it safe to manually download and install updates?

Yes, manually downloading updates from the official Microsoft Update Catalog is safe and can resolve update problems when automatic methods fail.

Do I need administrator rights to fix this error?

Yes, administrator privileges are necessary to stop/start services, run troubleshooters, and install updates.

Can antivirus software cause this error?

Sometimes, security software can interfere with updates. Temporarily disabling antivirus during the update process may help, but remember to enable it afterward.

What if the error persists after trying all steps?

Persistent errors might indicate deeper system issues. Consider seeking professional help or using advanced recovery options.

When Nothing Works

If you have followed all the steps and still receive the “Can Not Find Update in Server MSI” error, here are some final options:

  • Visit the Official Microsoft Support: Use the Microsoft Support website for guided help and to contact support.
  • Reset Windows Update Components: Microsoft provides scripts and manual instructions to reset update components completely. Refer to Microsoft’s official documentation.
  • Perform a Repair Install: Using the Windows 11 installation media to repair your system without losing files can fix complex update issues.
  • Backup and Clean Install: As a last resort, back up your data and do a clean installation of Windows 11 to start fresh.

Conclusion

Fixing the “Can Not Find Update in Server MSI” error on Windows 11 is manageable by following a clear, step-by-step process. Starting with simple solutions like restarting your PC and running the troubleshooter can often resolve the issue quickly.

Checking update services, clearing cache, and manually installing updates provide additional layers of troubleshooting if needed. For more persistent problems, advanced tools like the System File Checker and official Microsoft resources are valuable.

By understanding each step and why it’s important, you can confidently tackle this error and keep your Windows 11 system up to date and secure.

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