Windows Update is a critical component of the Windows operating system, ensuring that your device remains secure and up-to-date with the latest features and patches. However, the update process can sometimes encounter issues, such as getting stuck at the “Cleaning Up” phase.
This phase occurs after the installation of updates, where temporary files and residual data are removed. When this process stalls, it can prevent your system from completing the update, leaving you with an unresolved issue.
Restart Windows Update Services
Windows Update relies on several background services to function properly. If these services are interrupted or malfunctioning, the update process may stall. Restarting these services can often resolve the issue. Follow these steps:
- Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type services.msc and press Enter to open the Services window.
- Locate the following services: Windows Update, Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), and Cryptographic Services.
- Right-click each service and select Restart.
- If any service is not running, right-click it and select Start.
After restarting these services, attempt to run Windows Update again to see if the issue is resolved.
Clear the Windows Update Cache
Corrupted or outdated files in the Windows Update cache can cause the update process to stall. Clearing the cache forces Windows to download fresh update files, which can resolve the issue. Here’s how to clear the cache:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for cmd in the Start menu, right-clicking it, and selecting Run as administrator.
- Enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
- net stop wuauserv
- net stop bits
- net stop cryptSvc
- Navigate to the C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution folder and delete all its contents.
- Return to Command Prompt and enter the following commands:
- net start wuauserv
- net start bits
- net start cryptSvc
After clearing the cache, restart your computer and check if the update process completes successfully.
Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to identify and resolve common update-related issues. Running this tool can automatically fix problems that may be causing the update to stall. Follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app by pressing Win + I.
- Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.
The troubleshooter will attempt to detect and fix issues with Windows Update. If any problems are found, it will provide recommendations or automatically apply fixes.
Perform a System File Check
Corrupted system files can interfere with the Windows Update process. The System File Checker (SFC) tool scans and repairs damaged system files. To use this tool:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Enter the command sfc /scannow and press Enter.
- Wait for the scan to complete. If any issues are found, the tool will attempt to repair them automatically.
After the scan finishes, restart your computer and check if the update process proceeds without issues.
Disable Third-Party Antivirus Software
Third-party antivirus programs can sometimes interfere with Windows Update by blocking certain processes or files. Temporarily disabling your antivirus software can help determine if it is causing the issue. Follow these steps:
- Locate your antivirus software in the system tray or Start menu.
- Open the program and look for an option to disable real-time protection or turn off the software temporarily.
- Attempt to run Windows Update again.
If the update completes successfully, consider updating your antivirus software or switching to a different program that is compatible with Windows Update.
Reset Windows Update Components Manually
If the above methods do not resolve the issue, you may need to reset Windows Update components manually. This involves stopping related services, renaming specific folders, and restarting the services. Follow these steps:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Enter the following commands one by one:
- net stop wuauserv
- net stop bits
- net stop cryptSvc
- Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders by entering:
- ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
- ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
- Restart the services by entering:
- net start wuauserv
- net start bits
- net start cryptSvc
After completing these steps, restart your computer and attempt to run Windows Update again.