7 Fixes for Windows Update Troubleshooter Not Working

You’re stuck with a Windows Update that won’t install, and when you try to use the Windows Update troubleshooter, it won’t work either. This frustrating problem leaves your computer vulnerable to security risks and missing important updates. The Windows Update troubleshooter is supposed to be your first line of defense against update problems, but when it fails, you need to know what to do next.

The good news is that you can fix the Windows Update troubleshooter not working issue with several proven methods. This guide will walk you through 7 effective solutions, from simple checks to more advanced fixes, so you can get your updates working again and keep your computer secure.

Key Takeaways

• Windows Update troubleshooter can stop working due to corrupted files, disabled services, or network issues
• Start with simple solutions like checking the Windows Update service before moving to advanced methods
• SFC and DISM scans can repair corrupted system files that prevent the troubleshooter from working
• Clearing your DNS cache often fixes network-related troubleshooter problems
• Most users can fix the issue without technical skills by following step-by-step instructions
• Regular maintenance can prevent future troubleshooter problems

What Is Windows Update Troubleshooter and Why Does It Stop Working?

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built-in tool that helps find and fix problems with Windows updates. When your windows update won’t install, this troubleshooter should automatically detect and fix common issues. It’s designed to be your first helper when updates fail.

However, sometimes the Windows Update troubleshooter itself stops working. This can happen for several reasons:

• Corrupted system files that the troubleshooter needs to run
• Windows Update service being disabled or not running properly
• Network connectivity issues preventing the troubleshooter from checking for solutions
• Cryptographic services that aren’t working correctly
• Group policy settings that block the troubleshooter from running

When the Windows Update troubleshooter Windows 11 version fails, you might see error messages or it might simply not respond at all. The tool is essentially the same in both Windows 10 and 11, so the fixes work for both versions.

How to Run Windows Update Troubleshooter Before Fixing It?

Before we fix the troubleshooter, let’s make sure you know how to run it properly. Sometimes users think it’s not working when they’re just not running it correctly.

For Windows 11:

1. Click Start > Settings
2. Go to System > Troubleshoot
3. Click Other troubleshooters
4. Find Windows Update under Most frequent
5. Click Run next to it

For Windows 10:

1. Click Start > Settings
2. Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot
3. Click Additional troubleshooters
4. Find Windows Update under Get up and running
5. Click Run the troubleshooter

If the troubleshooter runs but finds nothing, or if it gives you an error when you try to start it, then you know the Windows Update troubleshooter not working issue is real.

7 Proven Methods to Fix Windows Update Troubleshooter Not Working?

Method 1: Check and Restart Windows Update Service

The most common reason for Windows Update troubleshooter not working is that the Windows Update service itself is disabled. This often happens after malware removal or system repairs.

1. Press Windows key + R
2. Type services.msc and press Enter
3. Scroll down to find Windows Update
4. Right-click on it and select Properties
5. If the Startup type says Disabled, change it to Manual or Automatic
6. Click Start if the service isn’t running
7. Click Apply > OK
8. Restart your computer

This simple fix solves the problem for many users, especially those who recently had their computer repaired or removed malware.

Method 2: Run SFC and DISM Scans to Repair System Files

Corrupted system files can prevent the Windows Update troubleshooter from working properly. System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) are tools that can fix these files.

To run SFC:

1. Type cmd in the search bar
2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator
3. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter
4. Wait for the scan to complete (this might take 15-20 minutes)
5. Restart your computer

To run DISM:

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator
2. Type DISM /online /cleanup-image /Scan Health and press Enter
3. Wait for it to complete
4. Type DISM /Online /Cleanup-image /RestoreHealth and press Enter
5. Wait for it to finish and restart your computer

These scans fix underlying system corruption that might be causing your windows 11 update failed to install issue and troubleshooter problems.

Method 3: Clear DNS Cache to Fix Network Issues

The Windows Update troubleshooter needs internet access to work properly. Sometimes, a corrupted DNS cache can prevent it from connecting to Microsoft’s servers.

1. Type cmd in the search bar
2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator
3. Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter
4. You should see “Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache”
5. Restart your computer

This fix is especially helpful if you’re experiencing windows 11 upgrade won’t download issues along with troubleshooter problems.

Method 4: Enable Cryptographic Services

Cryptographic Services is essential for Windows Update to work properly. If this service isn’t running, both updates and the troubleshooter will fail.

1. Press Windows key + R
2. Type services.msc and press Enter
3. Scroll down to find Cryptographic Services
4. Right-click on it and select Properties
5. Set Startup type to Automatic
6. If the service isn’t running, click Start
7. Click Apply > OK
8. Restart your computer

This service handles the digital signatures for Windows updates, so it’s crucial for both downloading updates and running the troubleshooter.

Method 5: Modify Local Group Policy Settings

Sometimes, Group Policy settings can block the Windows Update troubleshooter from working. This method is for Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions (not Home).

1. Press Windows key + R
2. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter
3. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Troubleshooting and Diagnostics > Scripted Diagnostics
4. In the right pane, you’ll see three entries
5. Right-click each one, select Edit, and set it to Enabled
6. Click Apply > OK for each one
7. Restart your computer

This fix ensures that all diagnostic and troubleshooting features are enabled in your system.

Method 6: Run Disk Cleanup to Free Up Space

Sometimes, lack of disk space can cause issues with both Windows updates and the troubleshooter. Running Disk Cleanup can help.

1. Type disk cleanup in the search bar
2. Select your main drive (usually C:)
3. Check all the boxes, especially Temporary Internet Files and Temporary files
4. Click OK to start the cleanup
5. Restart your computer

This simple maintenance task can free up space and remove corrupted temporary files that might be interfering with the troubleshooter.

Method 7: Perform System Restore or Reset This PC

If none of the above methods work, you might need to use System Restore to return your computer to a time when the troubleshooter was working.

For System Restore:

1. Type create a restore point in the search bar
2. Click System Properties > System Restore
3. Choose a restore point from before the problem started
4. Follow the prompts to restore your system

For Reset This PC (last resort):

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery
2. Under Reset this PC, click Get started
3. Choose Keep my files to preserve your personal data
4. Follow the prompts to reset Windows

This should be your last option, as it will remove installed programs and settings.

How to Prevent Windows Update Troubleshooter Issues in the Future?

Once you’ve fixed the Windows Update troubleshooter not working issue, you’ll want to prevent it from happening again. Here are some simple tips:

• Keep your computer updated regularly instead of waiting for problems
• Run disk cleanup monthly to remove temporary files
• Use reliable antivirus software to prevent malware that can damage system files
• Avoid disabling Windows services unless absolutely necessary
• Create system restore points before making major changes to your computer

Following these practices will help keep your Windows Update troubleshooter working properly when you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Dealing with Windows Update troubleshooter not working can be frustrating, but as you’ve seen, there are multiple ways to fix it. Start with the simple solutions like checking the Windows Update service and clearing your DNS cache. These quick fixes often solve the problem without needing technical skills.

If those don’t work, move on to the more advanced methods like running SFC and DISM scans or modifying Group Policy settings. Remember that most Windows update issues, including when your windows 11 upgrade won’t download or windows 11 update failed to install, can be resolved with patience and the right approach.

Keep your computer healthy with regular maintenance, and you’ll prevent many of these issues from happening again. If you’re still having trouble after trying all these methods, consider seeking help from a professional or using Microsoft’s support resources.