How to Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter in Windows 10

The Windows Update troubleshooter can detect and repair several common update-service and configuration problems in Windows 10.

Windows 10 support note: Microsoft ended normal support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. A troubleshooter can repair the local Windows Update components, but it cannot make unsupported devices eligible for updates they are no longer offered.

Method 1: Use the Get Help troubleshooter

On a Windows 10 PC where Get Help is available:

1. Open Get Help.
2. Search for Windows Update troubleshooter.
3. Run the automated diagnostic and follow its recommendations.

Method 2: Use the Windows 10 Settings troubleshooter

On Windows 10 builds that still expose the Settings-based troubleshooter:

1. Open Start > Settings > Update & Security.
2. Select Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
3. Select Windows Update.
4. Select Run the troubleshooter.
5. Apply any recommended fixes.
6. Restart the PC.
7. Return to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates again.

The original version of this article used the older Control Panel troubleshooter. Later Windows 10 releases moved the normal consumer workflow into Settings and Get Help.

Official reference

Microsoft Windows Update Troubleshooter: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-update-troubleshooter-19bc41ca-ad72-ae67-af3c-89ce169755dd