Windows Update Stuck at 0% or 100%? Here’s How to Fix It (2025 Guide)

 

Windows Update Stuck at 0% or 100%? Don’t Panic

Many Windows users face a situation where Windows Update gets stuck at 0% or 100% and doesn’t move for hours.
This usually happens after an update starts installing and suddenly freezes.

The good news?
In most cases, this can be fixed without reinstalling Windows.

Let’s go step by step.

Why Windows Update Gets Stuck

Windows updates may freeze due to:

Now let’s fix it.

Fix 1: Wait (Yes, Really)

Before doing anything drastic:

  • Wait at least 1–2 hours

  • Some updates take time, especially on older laptops

👉 If the percentage hasn’t changed at all after 2 hours, move to Fix 2.

Fix 2: Restart Your Computer (Safe Method)

If the update is stuck:

  1. Hold the Power button for 10 seconds

  2. Turn the system back ON

  3. Windows will try to repair or continue the update automatically

⚠️ Don’t worry — Windows is designed to recover from interrupted updates.

Fix 3: Disconnect Internet and Restart

This often works surprisingly well.

  1. Turn OFF WiFi or unplug Ethernet cable

  2. Restart your PC

  3. Log in and wait for Windows to load

  4. Reconnect the internet

Windows may finish the update or roll it back safely.

Fix 4: Use Windows Update Troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows + I → Settings

  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters

  3. Click Run next to Windows Update

  4. Follow on-screen instructions

This tool automatically fixes common update problems.

Fix 5: Clear Windows Update Cache (Most Effective)

⚠️ This is safe but follow carefully.

  1. Press Windows + R

  2. Type services.msc → Enter

  3. Stop these services:

    • Windows Update

    • Background Intelligent Transfer Service

  4. Open File Explorer and go to:

C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution

  1. Delete all files inside this folder

  2. Restart your computer

  3. Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates

This forces Windows to download fresh update files.

Fix 6: Check Disk Space

  • Open This PC

  • Make sure C: drive has at least 10–15 GB free

  • Delete temporary files if needed

Low disk space is a very common reason for update failure.

When Should You Reset Windows?

Only consider reset if:

  • Update fails repeatedly

  • System doesn’t boot properly

  • Blue screen appears often

Before resetting, always back up important files.

Final Tip to Avoid This Problem Again

  • Keep at least 20 GB free on C: drive

  • Avoid shutting down during updates

  • Pause updates if battery is low

Conclusion

A stuck Windows update looks scary, but most of the time it’s fixable in minutes.
Try the steps above in order and your system should be back to normal.

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