Fix: Windows Update Fails or Hangs in Windows 8 (Historical)

Historical support note: Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 are no longer supported, so they do not receive normal security fixes. An old Windows Update error may now reflect the operating system’s retired servicing state rather than a repairable current-update problem.

When this article was originally published, Windows Update failures could be caused by a damaged component store, interrupted servicing, third-party software conflicts, or network/time problems.

1. Restart and check the basics

Before changing services or drivers:

restart the PC;
confirm date, time, and time zone;
make sure the system drive has free space;
confirm the network connection works.

2. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter available in Windows 8

From Control Panel, open Troubleshooting, then use the Windows Update troubleshooter if it is present on the system.

3. Repair the Windows component store

Open an elevated Command Prompt and run:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

DISM health/repair operations are supported on Windows 8 and later. When DISM completes, run:

sfc /scannow

Restart and test Windows Update again.

4. Test for a third-party software conflict

A clean boot can help isolate a non-Microsoft service or startup program that is interfering with servicing. Disable only the non-Microsoft items needed for the test and restore them afterward.

Do not permanently disable antivirus protection, and do not update graphics/chipset/storage drivers simply because Windows Update failed. Driver work should be tied to a specific device or known compatibility issue.