Are Windows updates taking hours to install? Do you frequently encounter errors or freezing during updates? Slow Windows updates can be frustrating, but the problem often stems from cluttered system files, network issues, or misconfigured services. In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step solutions to speed up Windows 10/11 updates and fix common installation problems.

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Why Are Windows Updates So Slow?

Several factors can slow down updates:

• Low disk space (Windows needs free space to download & install updates)
• Corrupted update files (Requires cleanup)
• Background services interfering (BITS, Windows Update service)
• Network throttling (ISP or Windows reserving bandwidth)
• Fragmented hard drive (HDD users only)

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Step 1: Free Up Disk Space

Windows updates require at least 10-20GB of free space.

1. Open Settings (Win + I) → System → Storage.
2. Click Temporary Files → Select:

• Delivery Optimization Files
• Windows Update Cleanup
• Recycle Bin

1. Click Remove Files.

💡 Pro Tip: Uninstall unused apps (Settings → Apps → Installed apps).

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Step 2: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Microsoft provides a built-in tool to fix update issues:

1. Open Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot.
2. Select Windows Update → Run the troubleshooter.

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Step 3: Reset Windows Update Components (Manual Fix)

Corrupted update files can cause delays. Reset them via Command Prompt (Admin):

Stop Update Services

net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
net stop appidsvc
net stop cryptsvc

Clear Update Cache

cd %windir%\SoftwareDistribution
del /f /q *

Reset Network Components

netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /flushdns

Restart Services

net start bits
net start wuauserv
net start appidsvc
net start cryptsvc

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Step 4: Optimize Network for Faster Downloads

Windows reserves 20% bandwidth for updates by default. Free it up:

1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc (Not available in Home edition? Enable it first).
2. Go to:
   Computer Config → Admin Templates → Network → QoS Packet Scheduler
3. Double-click Limit Reservable Bandwidth → Enable → Set to 0%.

⚠ Note: Revert this after updates to avoid network instability.

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Step 5: Repair System Files (DISM & SFC)

Corrupted system files can block updates. Run:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow

Wait for both commands to complete (may take 20-40 mins).

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Step 6: Disable Metered Connection (Wi-Fi Users)

Windows limits updates on metered connections:

1. Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi.
2. Click your network → Disable “Metered connection”.

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Final Step: Restart & Check for Updates

After applying all fixes:

1. Restart your PC.
2. Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.

✅ Result: Updates should now install faster and error-free.

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Prevent Future Update Problems

✔ Keep 20GB+ free space on C:.
✔ Run disk cleanup monthly (cleanmgr).
✔ Use Ethernet (Faster than Wi-Fi for large updates).

Tags:

Windows Update Slow, Fix Windows Update, Speed Up Windows, Update Troubleshooting, Windows 10/11

Hashtags:

#WindowsUpdate #SpeedUpWindows #TechTips #Windows10 #Windows11

Did these fixes work? Share your results below! 🚀

Rakesh Bhardwaj

Rakesh Bhardwaj is a seasoned editor and designer with over 15 years of experience in the creative industry. He specializes in crafting visually compelling and professionally polished content, blending precision with creativity. Whether refining written work or designing impactful visuals, Rakesh brings a deep understanding of layout, typography, and narrative flow to every project he undertakes.

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