Published 2023-07-10 by TechNet New England
Windows updates include security patches, bug fixes, and feature improvements. Keeping your system updated is one of the simplest and most important things you can do for security and stability. ## Check for Updates 1. Open **Settings** (press Win + I). 2. Click **Windows Update** in the left sidebar. 3. Click **Check for updates**. 4. If updates are available, click **Download and install**. 5. Some updates require a restart. Click **Restart now** when prompted, or schedule the restart for a later time. ## Install Optional Updates Some updates are classified as optional and do not install automatically. 1. In **Settings > Windows Update**, scroll down. 2. Click **Advanced options**. 3. Click **Optional updates**. 4. If any are available, check the boxes and click **Download and install**. Optional updates often include driver updates for hardware components. ## Fix Stuck Updates If updates get stuck downloading or installing: ### Clear the Update Cache 1. Open **Command Prompt as Administrator**. 2. Run these commands: ```cmd net stop wuauserv net stop bits del /f /s /q C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\* net start wuauserv net start bits ``` 3. Go back to Settings > Windows Update and try again. ### Run the Update Troubleshooter 1. Go to **Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters**. 2. Click **Run** next to **Windows Update**. 3. Follow the prompts. ### Check Disk Space Updates need free disk space to download and install. If your C: drive is nearly full, free up space first. ## Update History To see what updates have been installed: 1. Go to **Settings > Windows Update > Update history**. 2. You will see a list of recent updates with dates and status. ## Failed Updates If an update fails with an error code: 1. Note the error code (like 0x80070002 or 0x800f081f). 2. Search for the error code at [support.microsoft.com](https://support.microsoft.com) for specific guidance. 3. If the error persists, contact your IT provider. ## Managed Computers If your computer is managed by your organization (joined to a domain or enrolled in Intune/MDM), updates may be controlled by your IT team. You might see messages like "Some settings are managed by your organization" on the Windows Update page. In this case, your IT provider decides when updates are deployed. Do not try to override managed update settings. If you believe an important update is missing, contact your IT help desk.