update stuck at 6%

If Windows Update has been stuck at 6% for 3 days, treat it as stuck rather than still progressing.

Try these steps in order:

1. Restart the PC Restarting can clear a blocked update process.
2. Check the internet connection Go to Start > Settings > Network & Internet > Wi‑Fi and confirm the device is connected.
3. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
   • On Windows 11: Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters
   • Find Windows Update and select Run
   • Follow the on-screen steps
4. Make sure the Windows Update service is running
   • Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter
   • Find Windows Update
   • Right-click Properties
   • Set Startup type to Automatic
   • If the service is stopped, select Start
   • Select Apply and OK
5. Clear the Windows Update cache This removes possibly corrupted update files.
   • Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter
   • Right-click Windows Update and select Stop
   • Go to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
   • Delete the files and folders inside
   • Return to Services, right-click Windows Update, and select Start
6. Disconnect external hardware Remove external drives, docks, and other non-essential devices, then try the update again.
7. Check date and time settings Go to Start > Settings > Time & language > Date & time and enable automatic time settings. If available, select Sync now.
8. Temporarily disable third-party antivirus or firewall Security software can block updates. Disable it briefly, try the update, then re-enable protection.
9. Repair system files Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:
   • DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
   • sfc /scannow After both complete, try Windows Update again.

If the update still does not move after these steps, a clean restart can help rule out software conflicts during the update process.

References:

• Troubleshoot problems updating Windows