Troubleshooting Guide: How to Fix Windows 11 Windows Update Service Not Running

Introduction

Windows Update is a crucial component of the Windows operating system that ensures your system is up-to-date with the latest security patches, features, and improvements. However, encountering the issue of the Windows Update Service not running on Windows 11 can be frustrating. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to troubleshoot and fix this common issue.

Step 1: Check Windows Update Service Status

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.

2. Type services.msc and hit Enter.

3. Locate ‘Windows Update’ in the list of services and check its status. If it shows ‘Running’, move on to the next step. If it shows ‘Stopped’, right-click on it and select ‘Start’.

Step 2: Restart Windows Update Service

1. Press Win + X and select ‘Windows Terminal’ (Admin).

2. Type the following command and press Enter: net stop wuauserv

3. Next, type: net start wuauserv

Step 3: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.

2. Select ‘Windows Update’ and click ‘Run the troubleshooter’.

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to let Windows diagnose and fix any issues.

Step 4: Check Disk Space

1. Insufficient disk space can also cause Windows Update problems. Ensure you have enough free space on your system drive.

Step 5: Disable Third-Party Antivirus

1. Sometimes, third-party antivirus programs can interfere with Windows Update. Temporarily disable your antivirus and check if the issue persists.

Potential Fixes:

  • Reset Windows Update components
  • Perform a System File Checker scan
  • Check for system corruption
  • Manually update Windows

By following these steps and potential fixes, you should be able to resolve the issue of Windows 11 Windows Update Service not running. Keeping your system updated is essential for its security and performance, so don’t hesitate to address any update-related issues promptly.

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