A problem with the Windows update component may indicate the presence of corrupted files in the software distribution folder, stopped Windows update services, corrupted Windows update registry, or DLL files. These issues are common causes that prevent successful installation of Windows updates.
Before proceeding with the methods, ensure that you have sufficient space available on your system drive for the update. Otherwise, you may encounter this error message.
1. Resetting Windows Update Component
As mentioned earlier, if there is an issue with the Windows Update component, such as corrupted Windows update files in the software distribution folder, it can lead to various Windows update errors. The software distribution folder is used to store files downloaded via the Windows update utility. Once the Windows update files are downloaded, the user can install them by restarting the computer. If there are corrupted Windows update files present, it can cause errors during the update process. Resetting the Windows update components involves clearing the software distribution folder, as well as other Windows update folders like the Catroot folder. Additionally, it involves restarting the Windows update services and re-registering the Windows update DLL files. Therefore, if the error is caused by a problem with the Windows update component, performing a reset should resolve the issue.
2. Download Windows Update Manually
If resetting the Windows update component did not work for you, you can try downloading and installing the Windows update manually by visiting the Microsoft Catalog, which is a store of Windows updates released so far.
4. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
The Windows Update troubleshooter allows users to automatically fix problems that prevent Windows from installing updates. When you run the Windows Update troubleshooter, it first checks for pending restarts and then verifies the status of Windows Update services. Therefore, follow these steps to run the Windows Update troubleshooter utility:
5. Perform a DISM and SFC Commands
SFC, or System File Checker, is a command-line troubleshooting utility that enables users to restore corrupted system files, including Windows update files. On the other hand, DISM, or Deployment Image Servicing and Management, consists of three commands: CheckHealth, ScanHealth, and RestoreHealth. These commands are used to restore or repair Windows images, which include the Windows update component. To execute DISM and SFC, follow these steps:
6. Use a System Restore utility
You can also use the System Restore utility to revert to a previous version of Windows and then attempt to update Windows. System Restore is a troubleshooting utility that enables users to create restore points that store registry files, system files, and drivers. When issues arise, such as driver corruption or Windows update errors, using the System Restore utility can help resolve the problem. If you have previously created a restore point, follow these steps to utilize it. Otherwise, proceed to the final method.
7. Use the Media Creation tool to install or upgrade Windows
If you have Windows 10, you can use the Media Creation Tool to upgrade your Windows. However, if you are using Windows 11, you will need to reinstall Windows using the Media Creation Tool. If you intend to create a bootable USB to install Windows, you can refer to our article on ‘How to Install Windows Using a USB.’ Otherwise, follow the steps below to upgrade your Windows.
