Windows Update is stuck or failing

If it's stuck on "Working on updates" at start-up

Large updates can sit at one percentage for up to an hour. Keep the laptop plugged in and wait.
After 2 hours with no change, hold the power button for 10 seconds and turn it back on. Windows normally undoes the update and starts.

If updates fail to install

Restart the computer and select Check for updates again.
Check your connection, and avoid mobile hotspots for large updates.
Free up space. Updates need about 20 GB free (see article 39).
Run the troubleshooter: Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run.
Repair Windows files: right-click Start, select Terminal (Admin), and run sfc /scannow, then DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. Restart and try again.
Note the error code (for example, 0x800f0922) and search for it on Microsoft's support site.

A big Windows 11 version update won't install? Download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant from Microsoft's Windows 11 download page and run it.

Still failing? Send us a screenshot of the error and the Windows Update history page.