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Fix: Updates are underway in Windows 11 

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  • 6 min read

Sometimes, while updating Windows 11, the updates may get stuck. This can be frustrating when you have tons of work left to do, and the updates won’t download.

Fortunately, there are some fixes that you can try to resolve the problem. In this article, we’ll delve into why the updates are stuck in Windows 11 and how to fix it.


Reasons why the updates are stuck in Windows 11

Here are some of the most common reasons why the updates are stuck in Windows 11, and you are still seeing updates are underway message on your screen:

  • Unstable or faulty internet connection.
  • A bug in the Windows Update service.
  • Problems with the Windows server.
  • Lack of hard drive space.

Also read: Fix: Kmode exception not handled in Windows 11


How to fix the updates are still underway in Windows 11 issue?

Now that we have understood why you are seeing the updates are underway message on your screen, it is time to head to the fixes so that you can go back to using Windows normally.

Restart the computer

Sometimes, the easiest solutions are the best. What can be easier than restarting your computer?

When you restart your PC, the RAM gets cleared and any minor bugs that may be causing the problem get flushed out.


Free up some space

Usually, Windows updates are not large in size. But sometimes, they can be as large as a few GBs. So, if you don’t have enough space to handle the download, the updates won’t download.

In such cases, freeing up your hard drive is a good option.


Boot your computer in safe mode

Another way to get out of updates stuck in Windows 11 is to boot the computer in safe mode.

Safe mode is a specialized Windows environment designed for troubleshooting, diagnosing, and repairing corrupted system files. When your computer operates in safe mode, no third-party applications, including your antivirus software, are allowed to run.

Only essential Windows services required for booting are active, guaranteeing that the computer operates with minimal applications and services. This configuration prevents conflicts with third-party software and services, ensuring a more stable environment for addressing system issues.

Follow the steps given below to boot your computer in safe mode:

Step 1: Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialogue box. Here, type msconfig and select OK.

Step 2: Select the Boot tab at the top. Next, checkmark the Safe boot option.


Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

After you have booted up Windows 11 in safe mode, run the Windows Update Troubleshooter.

It is an in-built tool to check and fix the errors that you get while downloading updates for Windows.

Here’s how to run the Windows Update Troubleshooter:

Step 1: Search troubleshoot settings in the search bar and then select the option. Alternatively, you can go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot.

Step 2: Next, click on Other troubleshooter.

Step 3: Navigate to Windows Update and click on Run.

Let the troubleshooter run and then restart your computer. This may fix the problem of updates are underway in Windows 11.


Run SFC scan

SFC scan, also known as System File Checker scan, is a built-in Windows utility that is designed to scan and repair corrupted or damaged system files.

Here’s how to perform an SFC scan:

Step 1: Press the Windows key + X and then select Terminal.

Step 2: Type sfc /scannow to scan your system. 

Step 3: If the SFC scan finds any problems, use the following command to resolve them:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Fix your internet

If you are still not able to download updates in Windows 11, it is time for you to fix your internet. Maybe, due to weak or unstable internet, the updates are stuck.

Here are some steps that you can take to fix the internet:

  • First, make sure that there isn’t any internet outage in your area. You can ask your Internet Service Provider for the information or you can visit their website.
  • If there is no outage, then it is time to check the hardware to make sure that they are not damaged. Check all the hardware associated with the internet connection. That includes your router, modem, power cable, and the main power source, among others. Ensure that all the hardware is undamaged and working properly. If you notice any damage, change it asap.
  • If the hardware is fine, then it is time to check the connections. Make sure that the cables are secured firmly in the proper ports.
  • Sometimes, there is too much distance between the WiFi and the receiving device. Make sure that the distance is less. Or, you can directly connect the internet to your computer as it provides a more stable speed compared to WiFi.
  • Also, remove any other electronic appliances that might interfere with the WiFi signals. While you are at it, place the WiFi on a raised platform so that the devices catch signals seamlessly.
  • If there are many devices connected to your network, remove them before playing games on the internet as the devices share the limited bandwidth of the plan. You can also think of upgrading your existing internet plan.

Fixing your internet can fix the updates that are still underway in Windows 11 issue.

Also read: Fix: WiFi keeps disconnecting in Windows 11 

Kumar Hemant

Kumar Hemant

Deputy Editor at Candid.Technology. Hemant writes at the intersection of tech and culture and has a keen interest in science, social issues and international relations. You can contact him here: kumarhemant@pm.me

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