Updates keep your computer secure, but they don’t always go smoothly. Downloads stall at 0%, installs fail with cryptic codes, or everything installs fine and then your printer stops working. Here’s how to handle each situation.
Why updates matter
Updates fix security holes that attackers actively exploit. Skipping them indefinitely is riskier than the occasional hiccup. The goal is to fix update problems, not avoid updates.
Problem 1: The update is stuck
Be patient first
Large updates can sit on one percentage for a long time, especially on older computers or hard drives. If the drive light is flickering or the percentage moves occasionally, wait. Give it at least an hour or two before intervening.
If it’s truly stuck
- Restart the computer. On a “Working on updates” screen, hold the power button only as a last resort, after waiting a long time.
- Windows will usually roll back a failed update automatically.
Problem 2: The update fails to install
Check free space
Updates need room. Make sure you have at least 20 GB free (see our disk space guide).
Run the troubleshooter
Windows: Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters → Windows Update. On newer versions of Windows this may open the Get Help app instead.
Repair system files
Open Terminal (Admin) and run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow
Then restart and try the update again.
Search the error code
Windows update errors come with codes like 0x800f0922. Searching the exact code on Microsoft’s support site often leads to a specific fix.
Unplug extras
Disconnect external drives, docks and other USB devices during major updates. They sometimes interfere.
Temporarily disable third-party antivirus
Some security software blocks updates. Windows Security (built in) doesn’t cause this problem.
Problem 3: Something broke after the update
Roll back the update (Windows)
Settings → Windows Update → Update history → Uninstall updates. Select the most recent update and remove it.
For major version upgrades, Settings → System → Recovery → Go back is available for a limited time (usually 10 days).
Pause updates while waiting for a fix
Settings → Windows Update → Pause updates. Microsoft often releases fixes for widespread problems within a few weeks. Remember to resume.
Update drivers and apps
Often it’s a driver or app that needs updating to work with the new system. Check the manufacturer’s website for printers, graphics cards and audio devices.
Mac updates
- Where: System Settings → General → Software Update.
- Stuck? Leave it for a while. If nothing changes after several hours, restart and try again.
- Won’t install? Check free space and make sure your Mac is plugged in.
- After a major macOS upgrade, wait a day or two for things like search indexing and photo analysis to finish. Temporary slowness is normal.
Smart update habits
- Keep backups current before major upgrades.
- Wait a week or two for major feature upgrades (not security updates) if you rely on specialist software or hardware.
- Update at convenient times. Set active hours in Windows Update so it doesn’t restart while you’re working.
- Keep updates turned on. Occasional issues are far less risky than running unpatched software.
The bottom line
Most update problems come down to impatience, low disk space or corrupted system files. Give updates time, keep space free, repair files if needed, and roll back if something breaks.
