Fixed: Windows Update Service Is Not Running – 2025

Fixed: Windows Update Service Is Not Running

Windows updates are crucial for keeping your system secure and running smoothly. However, sometimes users encounter the “Windows Update Service Not Running” error, preventing them from downloading and installing updates. This issue can arise due to misconfigured settings, corrupted system files, or service-related errors. Fortunately, there are multiple solutions to fix this problem.

COMMON REASONS WHY WINDOWS UPDATE SERVICE IS NOT RUNNING

Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand the common causes:

• Windows Update Service is Disabled – The service may be turned off manually or by a third-party program.
• Corrupted System Files – Missing or damaged files can prevent the update service from running.
• Incorrect Date and Time Settings – Windows updates rely on accurate system time.
• Network Connection Issues – A weak or misconfigured network connection can cause update failures.
• Conflicting Software – Antivirus programs or third-party applications might block updates.
• Windows Update Cache Issues – Corrupted update files can cause update services to malfunction.

Now, let’s explore how to fix this issue.

1. RESTART YOUR COMPUTER

Sometimes, a simple restart can fix the problem. Restart your PC and check if the update service starts working. If not, proceed with the next steps.

2. CHECK AND ENABLE WINDOWS UPDATE SERVICE

If the Windows Update Service is disabled, you need to restart it manually.

Steps to Enable Windows Update Service:

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Scroll down and locate Windows Update.
3. Right-click Windows Update and select Properties.
4. Set Startup type to Automatic.
5. Click Start if the service is stopped.
6. Click Apply and OK.

Repeat these steps for the following services:

• Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
• Cryptographic Services
• Windows Installer

After enabling these services, try running Windows Update again.

3. RUN WINDOWS UPDATE TROUBLESHOOTER

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter to detect and fix update-related issues.

Steps to Run Windows Update Troubleshooter:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
3. Click Additional troubleshooters.
4. Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any suggested fixes.

Once completed, restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.

4. RESET WINDOWS UPDATE COMPONENTS

If the update service is still not running, resetting Windows Update components might help.

Steps to Reset Windows Update Components:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:

   net stop wuauserv
   net stop cryptSvc
   net stop bits
   net stop msiserver

3. Rename the update cache folders by running these commands:

   ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
   ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old

4. Restart the services:

   net start wuauserv
   net start cryptSvc
   net start bits
   net start msiserver

5. Close Command Prompt and restart your computer.

This process will reset the update cache and allow Windows Update to function correctly.

5. RUN SYSTEM FILE CHECKER (SFC) AND DISM SCANS

Corrupted system files can cause update issues. Running SFC and DISM scans can repair damaged files.

Steps to Run SFC and DISM Scans:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:

   sfc /scannow

3. Wait for the scan to complete.
4. If the issue persists, run the following DISM commands one by one:

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

5. Restart your computer after the scans complete.

6. CHECK DATE AND TIME SETTINGS

Incorrect date and time settings can interfere with Windows Update.

Steps to Adjust Date and Time Settings:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Time & Language.
3. Enable Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically.
4. Click Sync now.
5. Restart your PC and try running Windows Update.

7. DISABLE THIRD-PARTY ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARE

Some antivirus programs can block Windows updates.

Steps to Disable Antivirus Temporarily:

1. Open your antivirus program.
2. Look for the option to disable real-time protection or turn off antivirus.
3. Disable it temporarily and check if Windows Update starts working.

If this fixes the issue, consider updating or changing your antivirus software.

8. CHECK INTERNET CONNECTION

A weak or unstable internet connection can prevent Windows Update from running.

Steps to Check Network Connection:

1. Restart your router and modem.
2. Open Command Prompt and run:

   ping google.com

3. If there’s packet loss, try switching to a wired connection or resetting your network settings.

9. UPDATE WINDOWS MANUALLY

If Windows Update is still not running, you can manually install updates from Microsoft’s website.

Steps to Manually Update Windows:

1. Go to https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10.
2. Download the Windows Update Assistant.
3. Run the tool and follow the instructions to update your system.

10. PERFORM A SYSTEM RESTORE

If none of the above methods work, restoring your system to a previous working state might help.

Steps to Perform System Restore:

1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
2. Select Next and choose a restore point before the issue occurred.
3. Click Finish to start the restoration process.
4. Once completed, restart your computer and check if Windows Update is working.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The “Windows Update Service Not Running” error can be caused by various factors, including service misconfigurations, corrupted files, and network issues. By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the problem and get Windows Update running smoothly again. If the issue persists, consider seeking professional help or performing a clean installation of Windows.