Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.
Work through these checks
0 of 4 complete01Stop update services and clear SoftwareDistribution directory
Stop update services and clear SoftwareDistribution directory.
Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.
02Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter utility
Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter utility.
Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.
03Repair system directories using SFC scan
Repair system directories using SFC scan.
Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.
04Restart BITS and Windows Update services
Restart BITS and Windows Update services.
Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.
Possible causes
- Corrupted Windows Update cache folder structure
- Missing SoftwareDistribution system directories
- Directory access permission overrides
- Incomplete background cumulative downloads
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