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How to Fix Windows 10 Update Is Not Ready Error with Easy Steps

Windows 10 updates are essential for keeping your system secure and running smoothly. Sometimes, you may encounter the “Update Is Not Ready” error, which can be frustrating. This error usually prevents your computer from installing important updates.

Fixing this issue is often straightforward and can be done with a few simple steps. In this guide, we will walk you through easy methods to resolve the “Windows 10 Update Is Not Ready” error.

Each step is explained clearly to ensure even beginners can follow along without trouble. By the end, your Windows Update should work normally again.

Let’s get started with some quick notes before diving into the solutions.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Backup your important files: It’s always a good idea to save your important documents and data before making system changes.
  • Stable internet connection: Ensure you have a reliable internet connection as updates require downloading files.
  • Check your system date and time: Incorrect date/time settings can cause update errors.
  • Windows version: Make sure your Windows 10 version supports updates by checking system requirements.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most effective. Restarting your PC can clear temporary glitches that cause update errors.

Why this helps: Restarting stops any stuck update processes and refreshes system files, allowing the update to proceed smoothly.

  1. Click the Start button (Windows icon) at the bottom-left corner.
  2. Select the Power button.
  3. Click Restart.
  4. Once the computer restarts, try running Windows Update again.

Step 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows 10 has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix update-related problems automatically.

Why this helps: The troubleshooter scans your system for common errors and repairs them without needing technical knowledge.

  1. Press Windows + I keys together to open Settings.
  2. Click on Update & Security.
  3. From the left menu, select Troubleshoot.
  4. Click Additional troubleshooters.
  5. Find and select Windows Update, then click Run the troubleshooter.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions and apply the fixes suggested.
  7. Restart your computer and check if the update works now.

Step 3: Clear the Windows Update Cache

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

Why this helps: Removing old or corrupted cache files removes obstacles preventing successful updates.

  1. Press Windows + R 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 on it and select Stop.
  5. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:WindowsSoftwareDistributionDownload.
  6. Select all files and folders inside the Download folder and delete them.
  7. Go back to the Services window, right-click Windows Update, and select Start.
  8. Restart your computer and attempt the update again.

Step 4: Check and Repair System Files

Corrupted system files can interfere with Windows Update. Using built-in tools like System File Checker (SFC) can fix these issues.

Why this helps: Repairing system files ensures Windows components needed for updates are intact and functioning.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the command sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait patiently as the system scans and repairs files; this can take 10-15 minutes.
  4. Once completed, restart your PC and try the update again.

Step 5: Reset Windows Update Components Manually

If the previous steps didn’t work, resetting Windows Update components can fix deeper problems.

Why this helps: This process clears and rebuilds the update-related folders and services, eliminating persistent errors.

Follow these detailed commands carefully:

  1. Open Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin) as shown before.
  2. Type each command below and press Enter after each one:
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 window, restart your computer, and check for updates again.

Alternative Method: Use the Media Creation Tool

If Windows Update continues to fail, you can use the Media Creation Tool to update Windows manually.

This method downloads the latest version of Windows and installs it without wiping your data.

Steps:

  1. Visit the official Microsoft website and download the Media Creation Tool.
  2. Run the tool and select Upgrade this PC now.
  3. Follow the on-screen steps to complete the upgrade.

This approach bypasses some Windows Update issues by installing updates directly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Windows 10 say “Update Is Not Ready”?

This message often appears when update files are corrupted or incomplete, or when essential Windows services are stopped or malfunctioning.

Will resetting Windows Update components delete my files?

No, resetting components only affects update-related files and services. Your personal data and applications remain safe.

How long does the System File Checker scan take?

The sfc /scannow command can take around 10-15 minutes, depending on your system speed.

Can I skip Windows updates if this error persists?

It’s not recommended to skip updates as they include important security patches. Instead, try advanced methods or seek professional help.

What if my internet connection is unstable during updates?

Unstable connections can cause update failures. Ensure you have a steady network before retrying updates.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above steps solve the error, consider these options:

  • Use System Restore: Revert your computer to a previous state when updates worked correctly.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support page for expert assistance.
  • Reset your PC: As a last resort, you can reset Windows 10, which reinstalls the system but may remove apps and settings. Always backup before doing this.

Conclusion

The “Windows 10 Update Is Not Ready” error can disrupt your system’s ability to get important updates. However, most issues can be resolved by restarting your PC, running the troubleshooter, clearing the update cache, or repairing system files.

More advanced steps like resetting update components or using the Media Creation Tool offer reliable fixes if simpler methods fail. Always approach troubleshooting patiently and back up your data regularly.

By following this guide, you should be able to fix the update error and keep your Windows 10 system secure and up to date.

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