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Sometimes, the Windows 10 November update may not appear automatically in your system’s update settings. This can be frustrating, especially when you want to keep your PC secure and up-to-date.

There are several reasons why the update might not show up, ranging from simple connectivity issues to configuration settings on your PC.

In this guide, we will walk you through the easiest and most effective ways to fix this problem step-by-step.

By following these instructions carefully, you should be able to get the update to appear and install successfully.

Quick Note: What to Check Before You Start

• Make sure your PC is connected to the internet. Updates require a stable connection.
• Check that your device has enough free disk space (at least 20 GB recommended).
• Verify your Windows 10 version is eligible for the November update (usually versions released before it).
• Temporarily disable any VPN or proxy services, as these can interfere with Windows Update.

Step 1: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

The built-in troubleshooter can automatically detect and fix many common update problems.

1. Click on the Start menu and select Settings (gear icon).
2. Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
3. Select Additional troubleshooters.
4. Click on Windows Update and then Run the troubleshooter.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions and allow it to fix any detected issues.

Why this helps: The troubleshooter resets update components and clears corrupted files, which often block updates from showing up.

Step 2: Manually Check for Updates

Sometimes Windows doesn’t automatically check for updates. You can force it to do so.

1. Open Settings again from the Start menu.
2. Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
3. Click on the Check for updates button.
4. Wait a few minutes to see if the November update appears.

Why this helps: Manually triggering the update check refreshes your system’s connection to Microsoft servers.

Step 3: Restart Windows Update Services

If updates still don’t show, restarting the update services can fix any stuck processes.

1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
3. In the Services window, scroll down and find Windows Update.
4. Right-click it and select Stop.
5. Next, find Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) and stop it as well.
6. After stopping both, right-click each service again and select Start.

Why this helps: Restarting these services clears temporary glitches preventing updates from appearing.

Step 4: Clear Windows Update Cache

Corrupted cache files can block updates. Clearing them often resolves the issue.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator. To do this, press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:

net stop wuauserv
net stop bits

3. Now, open File Explorer and navigate to C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution.
4. Delete all contents inside this folder. (You may need administrator permission.)
5. Return to the Command Prompt window and type:

net start wuauserv
net start bits

Why this helps: The SoftwareDistribution folder stores update files and clearing it removes corrupted data.

Step 5: Use the Media Creation Tool

If the update still doesn’t show, you can manually install it using Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool.

1. Go to the official Microsoft Windows 10 download page.
2. Download the Media Creation Tool.
3. Run the tool and select Upgrade this PC now.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to download and install the latest update, including the November update.

Why this helps: This tool bypasses Windows Update and installs updates directly, solving many download or detection problems.

FAQs

Why is my Windows 10 update stuck on “Checking for updates”?

This usually happens due to corrupted update files or slow internet. Running the troubleshooter or clearing the cache often fixes it.

Can I skip the November update and install a newer update instead?

Yes, Windows 10 updates are cumulative. Installing the latest update will include all previous fixes.

Will my files be deleted if I use the Media Creation Tool?

No, if you choose “Upgrade this PC now” and select the option to keep your files, your personal data will remain intact.

Do I need to connect to a power source during the update?

It’s highly recommended to keep your PC plugged in during updates to prevent interruptions.

How much free space do I need for the November update?

At least 20 GB of free disk space is recommended to ensure the update can download and install properly.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above steps help, you may want to consider:

• Running a full system scan for malware using Windows Defender or another trusted antivirus.
• Checking for driver updates, as outdated drivers can block updates.
• Visiting the official Microsoft Windows Update Troubleshooter page for advanced tools.
• Contacting Microsoft Support if the problem persists.

Conclusion

Windows 10 November update not showing up can be caused by simple glitches or deeper system issues. Starting with basic checks like internet connection and running the troubleshooter often solves the problem quickly.

If needed, clearing the update cache or using the Media Creation Tool offers more powerful fixes. Always ensure your system has enough space and is ready for updates.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently troubleshoot and install your Windows 10 updates without hassle, keeping your PC secure and running smoothly.