windows update

antoe 0 Reputation points
2026-08-31T17:43:21.86+00:00

the screen is showing windows update error and keeps saying retry but not resolving

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Windows update
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  1. David-M 124.9K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-08-31T18:15:41.52+00:00

    Hi. I'm David, and I'm happy to help you.

    Please clarify the following:

    Are you getting an error code? If yes, which one?

    If it is a specific update, let me know the KB number of the update displaying the error.

    If you don't get an error code, see the update history.

    • Press "Windows + I" and select "Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history".

    If you prefer, share a screenshot. Use the shortcut "Windows + Shift + S" to use the screenshot tool.

    Also. What is the version and "OS Build" of your Windows 10?

    • Press "Windows + R", type winver, and click OK.

    If you prefer, share a screenshot.

    Be sure to censor your email address if it appears. The Microsoft Q&A is public.

    Looking forward to your reply.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-08-31T17:43:38.4966667+00:00

    Try these Windows Update fixes in order:

    1. Restart the PC A restart can clear processes that are blocking the update.
    2. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
      • On newer Windows builds: Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run
      • On Windows 10 paths shown in support content: Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run the troubleshooter
    3. Check the internet connection Go to Start > Settings > Network & Internet > Wi‑Fi and confirm the device is connected.
    4. Make sure the account has administrator access Some updates require admin rights.
    5. Clear the Windows Update cache This can help if cached update files are corrupted.
      • Press Win + R, type services.msc, press Enter
      • Find Windows Update, right-click, select Stop
      • Go to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
      • Delete the files and folders inside
      • Return to Services, right-click Windows Update, select Start
    6. Make sure the Windows Update service is enabled
      • Press Win + R, type services.msc, press Enter
      • Right-click Windows Update > Properties
      • Set Startup type to Automatic
      • If the service is stopped, select Start
      • Select Apply and OK
    7. Temporarily disable third-party antivirus or firewall Security software can block updates. Re-enable protection after testing.
    8. Repair system files Run these in Command Prompt as administrator:
      • DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
      • sfc /scannow After both finish, try Windows Update again.
    9. Disconnect unnecessary external hardware Remove external drives, docks, and other nonessential devices, then retry the update.
    10. Check date and time settings Go to Start > Settings > Time & language > Date & time, turn on Set time automatically, then use Sync now if needed.

    If the update still stays on Retry, the most complete next step from the support guidance is to perform a clean restart into Windows to rule out software conflicts, then try Windows Update again.

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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