Windows Update Stuck at 0% or 100% on Windows 11? Here’s What to Do (2026 Guide)

Windows Update Is Stuck? You’re Not Alone

If your Windows Update is stuck at 0%, 99%, or 100%, or shows messages like “Windows updates are underway” or “Restarting” for hours, this is a common Windows issue. Many users experience this problem on both Windows 11 and Windows 10, especially after recent cumulative updates such as KB5074109 or when upgrading to Windows 11 25H2.

The good news: in most cases, you can fix a Windows update stuck issue without reinstalling Windows.

Windows Update Stuck on Windows 11 or Windows 10 – Why It Happens

A Windows update can get stuck for several reasons, including:

• Corrupted update files

• Windows Update services freezing

• Slow or unstable internet connection

• Low disk space

• Antivirus or security software interference

• Large feature updates (like upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11)

When this happens, Windows may appear frozen even though it’s not making real progress.

Windows Update Stuck at 0% or 100% – First Things to Try

Before applying advanced fixes, try these basic checks:

1. Wait a Little Longer

If your Windows update is stuck at 100% but your PC shows disk or CPU activity:

• Wait 30–60 minutes

• Large updates can take time, especially on older PCs or HDDs

If there is no activity at all, continue with the steps below.

2. Restart Your PC (Safe Method)

If Windows is clearly stuck:

1. Hold the Power button for 10 seconds

2. Turn the PC back on

3. Windows will usually resume or roll back the update automatically

This is generally safe if the update has been stuck for over an hour.

Windows Updates Are Underway Stuck on Restarting? Fix It

If your screen is stuck on “Windows updates are underway” or “Restarting”:

1. Force restart the PC once

2. Let Windows load to the desktop

3. Go to Settings → Windows Update

4. Check for updates again

In many cases, Windows completes or repairs the update after rebooting.

Run Windows Update Troubleshooter (Very Effective)

If Windows update is stuck repeatedly:

1. Open Settings

2. Go to System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters

3. Click Run next to Windows Update

This tool automatically fixes common update issues and works on both Windows 11 and Windows 10.

Clear Windows Update Cache (Recommended Fix)

Corrupted cache files are a major reason updates get stuck.

1. Press Win + R, type

   C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution

2. Delete all files and folders inside

3. Restart your PC

4. Try updating again

This method is especially helpful if your Windows update is stuck at 0%.

Windows Update Stuck on Restarting After Every Attempt

If the update keeps failing after restarting:

• Disable third-party antivirus temporarily

• Ensure 20–25 GB free disk space

• Disconnect unnecessary USB devices

• Try updating again

Security software can sometimes block Windows system changes.

KB5074109 Update Stuck? What You Should Know

Some users report the KB5074109 update stuck issue during installation.

If KB5074109 won’t install:

• Clear Windows Update cache

• Restart Windows Update services

• Use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant

This often completes the update successfully.

How to Update to Windows 11 If Update Keeps Failing

If you’re trying to upgrade and the update keeps getting stuck:

1. Visit Microsoft’s official website

2. Download Windows 11 Installation Assistant

3. Run the tool and follow on-screen steps

This is the safest way to update to Windows 11 when normal updates fail.

Frequently Asked Questions 
 

What should I do if my Windows Update is stuck?

If a Windows update is stuck for more than an hour with no progress, restart your PC once. Then run the Windows Update Troubleshooter and clear the update cache if needed.

Why is my PC update taking so long?

Updates may take a long time due to slow storage, large feature updates, background tasks, or antivirus interference.

Is it okay to turn off PC while updating?

If the update is clearly frozen for over an hour, a forced restart is usually safe. Avoid turning off the PC while files are actively installing.

What’s the longest a Windows Update can take?

Most updates finish within 30–90 minutes. If it exceeds 2 hours with no activity, it’s likely stuck.

Final Thoughts

A Windows update stuck issue can look scary, but it’s usually easy to fix. Restarting once, clearing the update cache, and running the troubleshooter solve most problems. Whether you’re on Windows 10 or Windows 11, these steps work reliably in 2026.