Alex Ruben
How to Resolve “Updates are Underway” Screen on Windows 10 & 11
If you find yourself stuck on the “Updates are underway, please keep your computer on” screen in Windows 10 or 11, this guide is for you. This tutorial will provide you with a series of effective steps to resolve this update issue quickly. You will learn how to safely restart your PC, use advanced startup options, run the Windows troubleshooter, and more to prevent future problems.
Step 1: Force Restart Your PC Safely
If your updates are stuck, the first step is to safely restart your computer. Follow these instructions:
- Press and hold the power button until your PC turns off.
- Wait a few seconds, then turn your PC back on.
This action might help your system reconnect and resume the update process.
Step 2: Access Advanced Startup Options
If the issue persists, you may need to enter Advanced Startup Options:
- Restart your PC and when the Windows logo appears, press the power button to turn off your PC.
- Repeat this process three times. On the fourth time, Windows will boot into the Recovery Environment.
- Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options.
Within this menu, you can try options like Startup Repair or Uninstall Updates if you suspect a specific update is causing the problem.
Step 3: Run DISM and SFC Scans
To repair system files that might be causing the issue, run the following commands:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
- Type
cmdin the search box, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow
These scans will help identify and fix any corrupted files that are hindering the update process.
Step 4: Run Windows Troubleshooter for Updates
Running the Windows Troubleshooter can also be helpful in resolving update issues:
- Open Settings (Win + I).
- Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Select Additional troubleshooters.
- Click on Windows Update and then select Run the troubleshooter.
Follow the prompts and apply any fixes recommended by the troubleshooter.
Step 5: Prevent Future Update Issues
To minimize the chance of update issues in the future, consider these practices:
- Ensure your system is updated regularly.
- Check disk space availability before running updates.
- Disable any third-party antivirus during updates as it might interfere.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Here are a few tips that could enhance your update experience:
- Always back up your important data before attempting major updates.
- Monitor your internet connection during updates to avoid any interruptions.
If you continue to encounter problems, consider checking forums or Microsoft Support for additional help.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the “Updates are underway” screen issue on your Windows PC. Remember, keeping your system updated is vital for security and performance, so make sure to regularly check for updates and apply them when necessary. If you face further challenges, look out for our other guides related to Windows troubleshooting.
