Are you frustrated when Windows updates fail or leave your PC running slower than before? Regular updates are crucial for security and performance, but sometimes things go wrong. Many people try to fix these issues but make common mistakes that cause more problems. This article explains practical ways to manage Windows update repairs using built-in Windows tools—and how to avoid the most frequent beginner mistakes. We’ll also show how Glary Utilities can help make update repairs safer and easier.
Why Do Windows Updates Go Wrong?
Windows updates can fail because of disk errors, corrupted files, insufficient disk space, or leftover junk from previous updates. Problems can range from annoying errors to system crashes. The good news is that Windows includes tools to help repair update issues. Let’s look at five features and how to use them correctly.
1. Windows Update Troubleshooter: Are You Using It Properly?
Many beginners skip the Windows Update Troubleshooter or run it incorrectly. This tool is built to automatically detect and fix common update problems.
Correct Way to Use:
Open Settings (press Windows key + I).
Select Update & Security, then Troubleshoot.
Click on ‘Additional troubleshooters’ and select ‘Windows Update.’
Run the troubleshooter and follow on-screen instructions.
Common Mistake: Running the troubleshooter once and ignoring its results. Always read any recommendations it provides and restart your PC when prompted.
2. Disk Cleanup: Are You Forgetting to Free Up Space?
A full hard drive can cause updates to fail. Ignoring disk space warnings is a typical error for beginners.
Practical Example:
Run Disk Cleanup by typing ‘Disk Cleanup’ in the Start menu. Select your main drive (usually C:), then check boxes for ‘Windows Update Cleanup’ and ‘Temporary files.’
Click OK to delete these files and free up space for updates.
How Glary Utilities Helps: Glary Utilities offers a 1-Click Maintenance option that finds and removes unnecessary files, including leftover update files, making update installations smoother.
3. System File Checker: Are You Overlooking Corruption?
Corrupted system files can block updates. Many users don’t realize they can repair these files easily.
How to Do It:
Type ‘cmd’ in the Start menu, right-click on Command Prompt, and choose ‘Run as administrator.’
Type the command: sfc /scannow and press Enter.
Wait for the scan to finish. If errors are found, let Windows repair them automatically.
Common Mistake: Closing the Command Prompt window before the scan finishes. Always wait until you see a message that the scan is complete.
4. Windows Update Reset: Are You Resetting the Right Way?
Sometimes update problems persist despite using the above tools. Beginners often try random online suggestions that can make things worse.
Safer Solution:
Windows offers a built-in way to reset update components. Search ‘Reset Windows Update tool’ in the Microsoft Support site or use these steps:
Open Command Prompt as administrator.
Type: net stop wuauserv and press Enter.
Type: net start wuauserv and press Enter.
This restarts the update service, which fixes many stuck updates.
How Glary Utilities Helps: For those intimidated by command lines, Glary Utilities provides easy-to-use repair tools that automate processes like service resets and cleanup.
5. Restore Points: Are You Creating Backups Before Big Fixes?
One big mistake is jumping into repairs without a safety net. Update repairs can sometimes cause new problems if things go wrong.
How to Use Restore Points:
Open Control Panel, type ‘Recovery’ in the search box, and select it.
Click ‘Open System Restore’ and follow the prompts to create a restore point before starting major repairs.
Real-World Example: A failed update made a user’s PC unbootable. Because they made a restore point, they could easily roll back and try again.
Summary: Smarter Windows Update Repairs
Avoiding mistakes is just as important as taking action. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter, keep your disk clean, check your system files, reset update settings the right way, and always back up before making changes. Glary Utilities can make these steps even easier with its all-in-one maintenance suite, making it ideal for beginners who want to keep updates running smoothly without risky guesswork. Try these proven techniques to keep your Windows updates worry-free and your system running at its best.