Additional factors contributing to this complication include uninstalled pending updates leading to new update conflicts, and outdated or incompatible drivers that may hinder the update process. To potentially resolve this without addressing system corruption, you might remove any attached USB peripherals and wait an extended period (2 to 3 hours) to allow the configuration and installation of updates to complete. For users experiencing this frustrating error, it’s essential to recognize that it’s a frequent problem, but various troubleshooting steps are readily accessible.
1. Give the Update Some Time
Initially, it’s advisable to allow the update some time to conclude autonomously. Certain updates, particularly larger ones, may require an extended period to finish. The completion time can also vary depending on your computer’s specifications. Older hardware, for instance, can prolong the installation process. Therefore, it’s recommended to leave the update screen undisturbed for approximately 2-3 hours as a precaution. If, after such time, the screen remains static, a system restart could resolve a visually frozen but otherwise completed update process.
2. Remove External Peripherals
Detaching external peripherals from your computer may help. These devices could be interfering with the update process and consequently preventing Windows from finalizing the update. Such devices might include backup devices or any other non-essential peripherals beyond your keyboard and mouse. Subsequently, disconnect these additional peripherals from your PC and check if the error persists. A system restart may be required for this solution to be effective.
3. Disconnect Your PC’s Internet Connection
An active internet connection might also result in the update getting stuck on the “Working on updates” screen. This happens when Windows attempts a network request that fails to complete. By disconnecting your device’s internet connection, you can attempt to resolve the situation. Thus, remove the ethernet cable from your computer and verify if the update continues. If the problem remains, reboot the system and reattempt the update.
4. Repair Windows Files
Damaged system files are a common cause of update issues. This can occur as a result of Windows attempting to extract the update files on your computer. Utilize the Windows Recovery Environment to repair system files with the System File Checker (SFC) and the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tools.
5. Use a System Restore Point
Utilizing a system restore point presents another way to overcome the “Working on updates” screen if it gets stuck. Windows automatically creates these restore points periodically (unless disabled) to allow reverting your system to a prior state should issues arise. You can initiate the system restore via the Windows Recovery Environment.
6. Clean Install Windows
Should the aforementioned methods fail to solve the issue, a clean installation of Windows is your final option. This process installs a fresh version of Windows on your drive and will result in the loss of any data on the system drive. You will require a USB drive to create a bootable drive for Windows installation.
