Windows Update stuck at 0% on Windows 10 or 11? Here are 10 proven fixes to restart updates instantly — from quick resets to advanced troubleshooting.

When Windows Update refuses to move past 0%, it feels frustrating — especially when you’re trying to install a security patch or a major Windows 10/11 upgrade. The good news? You’re not alone. This is a very common issue, and in most cases, you can fix it in minutes.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through why the update gets stuck, the quick fixes, and the step-by-step solutions to permanently solve the windows update stuck at 0% fix problem.

Let’s get straight into it.

Quick Fixes (Try These First)

If you’re in a hurry, start with these fast solutions:

• Restart your PC
• Disconnect from Wi-Fi, then reconnect
• Use a different internet connection or hotspot
• Pause update → restart → resume update
• Check disk space (need at least 10GB free)

If these don’t work, move to the detailed fixes below.

Why Windows Update Gets Stuck at 0%

Before applying the windows update stuck at 0% fix, it helps to know what causes it:

1. Slow or unstable internet

Windows needs a stable connection to download update files.

2. Corrupted Update Cache

The SoftwareDistribution folder often becomes cluttered or corrupted.

3. Windows Update service issues

Background services may stop responding.

4. Low storage space

Windows cannot download updates if your drive is full.

5. Antivirus/firewall blocking

Security tools may block update servers.

6. Damaged system files

Corrupt Windows components = stuck updates.

7. Metered connection

Windows limits downloads on metered networks.

10 Proven Fixes for Windows Update Stuck at 0%

Below is the main step-by-step windows update stuck at 0% fix guide. Follow the solutions in order.

Fix 1: Restart Windows Update Services (Most Effective)

This resets the entire update system.

Steps:

1. Press Win + R
2. Type:

services.msc

3. Find these services:

• Windows Update
• Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
• Cryptographic Services

4. Right-click each → Restart

5. Try checking for updates again.

Fix 2: Reset Windows Update Cache (SoftwareDistribution + Catroot2)

This is one of the most reliable windows update stuck at 0% fix methods.

Steps:

1. Open Command Prompt (Admin)
2. Run these commands one-by-one:

net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
net stop cryptsvc

3. Now delete update cache:

• Go to:
  C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution → Select All → Delete
• Go to:
  C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 → Delete all files

4. Restart services:

net start wuauserv
net start bits
net start cryptsvc

Restart your PC and run Windows Update again.

Fix 3: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Built-in, simple, effective.

Steps:

1. Open Settings
2. Go to Update & Security → Troubleshoot
3. Click Additional troubleshooters
4. Select Windows Update → Run

Windows automatically scans and repairs issues.

Fix 4: Disable VPN, Proxy, and Antivirus

Security/connection tools sometimes block update servers.

Disable VPN/Proxy

• Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Proxy
• Turn OFF Use a proxy server

Disable Antivirus temporarily

Avoid staying unprotected for long.

Fix 5: Free Up Disk Space (Important)

Windows updates need 10–20GB free space.

Tips:

• Delete temp files
• Empty recycle bin
• Uninstall unused programs
• Move videos to another drive or cloud

Quick cleanup:

Search and open: Disk Cleanup → Clean system files

Fix 6: Switch Your Internet Connection

Sometimes updates stick at 0% because:

• ISP blocks certain servers
• Wi-Fi is slow
• Router assigns bad DNS

Try:

• Connect mobile hotspot
• Restart router
• Try a different Wi-Fi network

Fix 7: Change DNS for Faster Update Server Response

DNS can slow down update server connection.

Steps:

1. Go to Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center
2. Click your connection
3. Click Properties
4. Select: Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)
5. Use these DNS:

Preferred: 8.8.8.8
Alternate: 8.8.4.4

Click OK → Restart PC.

Fix 8: Run SFC & DISM to Repair Corrupted System Files

If system files are damaged, updates won’t download.

Run SFC:

sfc /scannow

Run DISM commands:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Restart and try updating.

Fix 9: Check for Metered Connection

Windows limits downloads on metered networks.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi
2. Click your Wi-Fi
3. Turn OFF Set as metered connection

Fix 10: Update Windows Using Installation Assistant (Final Solution)

If nothing works, bypass the update system.

Windows 10:

Use the Windows 10 Update Assistant.

Windows 11:

Use Windows 11 Installation Assistant.

This method forces the latest update without waiting for Windows Update.

Advanced Fixes (Only If Nothing Worked)

These are deeper troubleshooting techniques.

Fix A: Reset Windows Components Manually (Full Reset Script)

Use this script only if updates are completely broken.

net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver

ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old

net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver

Restart PC afterward.

Fix B: Perform an In-Place Upgrade (Keeps All Files)

This reinstalls Windows without deleting apps or personal data.

• Download Windows ISO
• Run setup.exe
• Choose Keep personal files and apps

This repairs all corrupted update components.

Windows Update Stuck at 0% — Summary Table

FAQs

1. Why is Windows stuck at 0% when checking for updates?

Most commonly due to corrupted cache, slow internet, or Windows Update service issues.

2. How long should I wait before assuming it’s stuck?

If it stays at 0% for more than 10 minutes, it’s stuck.

3. Will resetting SoftwareDistribution delete my files?

No, it only resets update cache.

4. Can VPN cause Windows Update to freeze?

Yes, VPNs often block or slow down Microsoft update servers.

5. What if nothing fixes the issue?

Use the Update Assistant or perform an in-place upgrade.