You may even come across an error prompt stating the following while trying to check for updates: If you have experienced this problem, then you have come to the right place. This article discusses several mitigation methods that you can try to fix the problem and install this Windows update.
Solution to Windows Update not checking for updates
There are several reasons why your operating system may not search for pending Windows updates. We suggest you perform all the given methods in the order mentioned to fix the problem.
Solution to Windows Update not checking for updates Restart Computer Start Associated Services Run Windows Update Troubleshooter Disable Windows Firewall Register Windows Update Services Remove Windows Update History Update RST Driver Closing Words
Restart Computer
Let’s start with the possible solution that Windows has suggested: restart your computer. Try rebooting your PC and then check for pending Windows updates. If you still see the same error message, there are a few things you can try.
Start Associated Services
It may be possible that the Windows services responsible for checking for Windows updates may not be running in the background. You can start them using the following steps: Note: If you find that the services are already running and the Start option is grayed out, then the problem might be something else. Once the services have started, try rechecking for Windows updates.
Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
Both Windows 11 and 10 have a pre-installed troubleshooter for several OS services and features. This troubleshooter can be executed automatically to check for Windows Update issues, and then suggest the necessary action to be taken. Here are the steps to run the Windows Update troubleshooter:
Disable Windows Firewall
Note: We do not recommend disabling the firewall as it keeps your PC safe from outside threats on the internet. Just perform this step if it is crucial, and then re-enable the firewall afterwards. Windows Firewall can sometimes accidentally block legitimate internet traffic, causing your PC to not check for Windows updates. You can try disabling the firewall using the given guide below, and see if it solves the problem.
Register Windows Update Services
It may be possible that the files associated with Windows Update may not be registered properly, which is why your computer is failing to check for updates. Perform the following steps to register the .dll files: Now check for Windows updates again and see if the problem persists.
Remove Windows Update History
A corrupted Windows Update file may cause the service to malfunction. In that case, you must delete the temporary files stored by the service on your PC, and then check if the issue is resolved. Here is how to do so: Note: Alternatively, you can also simply rename the “SoftwareDistribution” folder instead of deleting its content, and Windows Update will create a new folder the next time it checks for updates. Now recheck for pending Windows updates and see if the issue has been resolved.
Update RST Driver
Outdated drivers often cause problems with the operating system. In this case, it may be possible that an outdated Intel Rapid Storage Technology (RST) driver may prevent Windows Update from running successfully. We suggest that you update your RST driver through Intel’s RST Download page, and then reboot your PC. Once the driver has been updated and the system is rebooted, you can check if Windows Update can check for any outstanding updates. You can also use third-party tools to check for driver updates.
Closing Words
We certainly hope that these methods have worked for you and resolved the issue. Windows updates are an important factor in keeping your PC as well as your network secure as Microsoft keeps updating its operating systems with security patches through these updates. If you are having trouble keeping your Windows up to date, we suggest that you implement the mitigation techniques we have discussed in this post.
