Windows Update Service Not Running [SOLVED]

Clearing the Windows update history can fix this issue quickly

5 min. read

Updated onApril 10, 2024

updated onApril 10, 2024

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Key notes

As a veteran Windows user, I can assure you that Windows updates are important for the smooth running and security of your PC. However, there are times when theWindows update won’t workand delivers a prompt saying that the service is not running.

The full error message states:Windows Update cannot currently check for updates, because the service is not running. You may need to restart your computer.

This can prevent you from installing important updates and make your PC vulnerable. Fortunately, as I have also dealt with this issue before, I can help you with a few tips and tricks that I have learned over the years.

How can I fix the Windows Update service not running issue?

Before exploring the sophisticated fixes in this section to make the Windows Update service run, below are some general troubleshooting steps you should try:

1. Run the Windows update troubleshooter

The Windows Update troubleshooter is one of the best tools for fixing update issues, including the service not running error. After running the troubleshooter, try checking and installing updates again.

2. Disable or remove problematic services

The first step to disabling any problematic app or process that could be causing the Windows update service not running issue is to clean boot your PC. If the issue is fixed after restarting your PC, you need to find the service or app that could be causing the problem.

You can do this by enabling the disabled services in batches. One service that users have found to cause this issue is the StopUpdates10Guard service. Below are the steps to follow to disable or remove it.

With this, you should be able to fix the Windows update service not running issue.

3. Clear the update cache

Restart your PC after applying the steps above. You can now check if you are still getting the Windows service not running error.

Why is the Windows Update service stopped?

Below are some of the factors that can cause the Windows update service not running error:

With this, we have come to the end of this guide. You now have everything to fix the Windows update service not running error on your PC. All you need to do is follow the detailed instructions, and everything should be back to normal.

If you are facing other issues likeWindows update not showing, check our detailed guide to restore it. We also have a guide dedicated to the0x8024001e error in Windows Update, so don’t miss it.

Feel free to let us know the solution that helped you solve the problem in the comments below.

Windows Update Service Not Running [SOLVED]#

How can I fix the Windows Update service not running issue?#

1. Run the Windows update troubleshooter#

2. Disable or remove problematic services#

3. Clear the update cache#

Why is the Windows Update service stopped?#