The short answer
Select Start › Settings › Windows Update, then select Check for updates and install what's available. Restart when asked. If an update won't install, free up disk space, restart and try again, and run the troubleshooter in Settings › System › Troubleshoot › Other troubleshooters › Windows Update.
Windows updates fix security holes, improve stability and update drivers. Windows installs most updates automatically, but it’s worth knowing how to check, schedule and troubleshoot them.
Install updates
- Select Start › Settings › Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates.
- If updates are available, select Download & install (or Install all).
- Restart when prompted. Save your work first.
Choose when Windows restarts
- Active hours: in Settings › Windows Update › Advanced options › Active hours, set the hours you usually use your PC. Windows avoids automatic restarts during that time.
- Pause updates: select Pause for 1 week on the Windows Update page if you need a short break, but don’t pause for long. Security updates matter.
If an update won’t install
Free up disk space
Updates need free space to download and install. Go to Settings › System › Storage and clean up temporary files, or turn on Storage Sense. See how to free up disk space on Windows.
Restart and try again
Restart your PC, then return to Windows Update and select Check for updates.
Run the troubleshooter
On Windows 11, go to Settings › System › Troubleshoot › Other troubleshooters, and next to Windows Update, select Run. (Newer versions may direct you to the Get Help app instead.)
Disconnect extra devices
Unplug external drives, docks and other hardware you don’t need, then try again. A device driver can sometimes block an update.
Check your connection
Make sure you’re connected to a reliable network, and avoid metered connections, which can limit downloads.
Update other Microsoft products
In Settings › Windows Update › Advanced options, turn on Receive updates for other Microsoft products to keep apps like Microsoft Office up to date too.
Before big updates
Back up your files first. See how to back up your Windows PC.
Related guides
Before big updates, back up your Windows PC. If updates fail because the drive is full, see how to free up disk space on Windows.
The bottom line
Check Settings › Windows Update regularly, set Active hours so restarts happen at convenient times, and free up disk space if updates fail. Keeping Windows updated is one of the best things you can do for both speed and security.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stop Windows from restarting while I'm working?
Yes. In Settings › Windows Update › Advanced options, set Active hours to when you usually use your PC. Windows avoids restarting during that time. You can also pause updates for a short period.
What are optional updates?
Optional updates include some driver updates and previews of upcoming features. Install driver updates if you have a problem with a specific device; otherwise, regular updates are enough.
My PC runs Windows 10. Will it still get updates?
Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After that date, Windows 10 no longer receives free security updates, so upgrading to Windows 11 (if your PC supports it) or enrolling in Extended Security Updates is recommended.
Why you can trust this guide
- Based on official sources. The steps here are checked against the 3 official sources listed below, such as the help pages of the companies involved.
- Checked and dated. Last checked on November 10, 2026. We update guides when software or advice changes.
- Independent. No company paid for or reviewed this guide. We don't sell products, and ads never influence our advice.
- Open to corrections. Spotted an error? Tell us and we'll fix it. Read how we research.
Sources
- Microsoft Support — Install Windows Updates
- Microsoft Support — Troubleshoot problems updating Windows
- Microsoft Support — Manage drive space with Storage Sense
This guide is general information. Menus and features can change with software updates, and steps may differ on your device or version. Back up important data before making big changes. Read our disclaimer.
