Try this in order:
- Check the basics first:
- Make sure the PC is connected to the internet.
- Go to Start > Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates again.
- Restart the PC, then try the update again.
- This can clear apps or processes that are blocking the update.
- Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:
- On some Windows versions: Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run the troubleshooter
- On newer layouts: Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run
- Make sure the Windows Update service is running:
- Press Win + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter. - Find Windows Update.
- If it is stopped, right-click it and select Start.
- Press Win + R, type
- If updates still cancel, reset the update cache.
- Warning: this deletes the temporary Windows Update download cache, not personal files.
- Press Win + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter. - Right-click Windows Update and select Stop.
- Open
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution. - Delete the files and folders inside.
- Go back to Services, right-click Windows Update, and select Start.
- Try Windows Update again.
- If the issue continues, temporarily disable third-party antivirus or firewall software, then retry the update.
If the update still fails after these steps, use the Windows upgrade and installation error guidance.