How to Run Windows Update and Fix Stuck Updates

Windows Update occasionally gets stuck downloading or installing. First, restart the computer — many stuck updates complete after a reboot. If still stuck, open Services (services.msc), stop the Windows Update service, then delete the contents of C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download. Restart the Windows Update service and try again. For persistent failures, run the Windows Update Troubleshooter from Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters. For error codes like 0x800f0922 or 0x80070002, the DISM and SFC tools can repair corrupted system files: run 'DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth' followed by 'sfc /scannow' in an elevated command prompt. Always check the Windows Update history (Settings > Update & Security > View update history) to identify which update is failing. Search the error code on support.microsoft.com for specific guidance.