Windows Updates and Operating System Errors

Symptoms:

• Windows update stuck at a certain percentage (e.g., 94%)

• Can't open Outlook or other programs

• Windows 11 upgrade compatibility issues

• Can't get into Windows

  If you can’t access your system at all, check our Computer Won’t Boot or Start Up page for more help

• Windows 11 crashing after update

  For repeated crashes, see our Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) and PC Crashes guide

If you need help, just contact us and we can help.

This page will address common issues related to Windows updates and operating system errors. It could be due to failed updates, software conflicts, driver issues, or compatibility problems. Don’t worry, we will give you the complete fix for you to try yourself here completely free. But again, if you’d like a pro help specialist instead, just contact us (Tap here to go to the contact page).

Fix Procedures:

1. Restart Your Computer:

   • Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve update issues or software glitches.

2. Check Your Internet Connection:

   • Ensure you have a stable internet connection, as updates require it.

3. Free Up Disk Space:

   • Make sure your hard drive isn't full. Delete unnecessary files or use Disk Cleanup.

     If your system still runs slowly, check our Slow Computer and Performance Optimization page

4. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter:

   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.

   • Select Windows Update and run the troubleshooter.

5. Temporarily Disable Antivirus Software:

   • Sometimes antivirus programs interfere with updates.

   • Disable them temporarily and try updating again.

6. Reset Windows Update Components:

   • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

   • Run the following commands one by one:

     • net stop wuauserv

     • net stop cryptSvc

     • net stop bits

     • net stop msiserver

     • ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old

     • ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old

     • net start wuauserv

     • net start cryptSvc

     • net start bits

     • net start msiserver

7. Check for Driver Updates:

   • Go to Device Manager.

   • Look for devices with warning signs and update their drivers.

8. Update Windows Manually:

   • Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.

   • Search for the specific update and download it manually.

9. Run System File Checker (SFC):

   • Open Command Prompt as administrator.

   • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

   • Wait for the process to complete.

     If you fear data loss, visit our Data Recovery and File Retrieval page

10. Run DISM Tool:

    • In Command Prompt, type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter.

    • This will repair corrupted system images.

11. Boot into Safe Mode:

    • Restart your computer.

    • Press F8 (or appropriate key) before Windows starts.

    • Select Safe Mode and try updating or troubleshooting from there.

12. Check Windows Activation Status:

    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.

    • Ensure Windows is activated properly.

13. For Outlook Not Opening:

    • Repair Outlook:

      • Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features.

      • Select Microsoft Office and click Change > Repair.

    • Create a New Profile:

      • Open Control Panel > Mail > Show Profiles.

      • Add a new profile and set it as default.

14. Windows 11 Upgrade Compatibility:

    • Download the PC Health Check app from Microsoft's website.

    • Run it to see if your PC meets Windows 11 requirements.

    • If not compatible, consider hardware upgrades or continue using Windows 10.

      If you upgrade your hardware or switch PCs, our New Computer Setup and Data Transfer Service can help

15. Can't Get Into Windows:

    • Automatic Repair:

      • Turn on your PC and force shutdown as Windows starts loading.

      • Repeat this 2-3 times to trigger Automatic Repair.

    • Use Recovery Drive:

      • Boot from a Windows installation USB.

      • Select Repair your computer and access recovery options.

16. Rollback Recent Updates:

    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.

    • Select Go back to the previous version if available.

17. Disable Fast Startup:

    • Go to Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do.

    • Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.

    • Uncheck Turn on fast startup.

18. Perform a Clean Boot:

    • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.

    • Under Selective startup, uncheck Load startup items.

    • Go to Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.

    • Restart your computer.

19. Check Event Viewer for Errors:

    • Right-click on Start and select Event Viewer.

    • Look for errors under Windows Logs > System or Application.

20. Reset Your PC:

    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.

    • Under Reset this PC, click Get started.

    • Choose to keep your files or remove everything.

21. Update BIOS/Firmware (Advanced Users):

    • Visit your motherboard manufacturer's website.

    • Download and install the latest BIOS update carefully.

22. Final Step: Seek Professional Help

    • If the problem persists, or you're not comfortable performing these steps, contact us and we'll assist you promptly.

By following these steps, you can troubleshoot common Windows update and operating system errors. Remember, if you're unsure about any step or the issue continues, we're here to help. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for professional support.