Can’t download and install some windows updates error install failed and download failed
Follow these steps in order on the Windows 11 PC that cannot download or install updates:
1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
- Select Start > Settings > System
- Select Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters
- Find Windows Update and select Run
- Let it complete and apply any fixes it suggests
2. Restart the PC
After the troubleshooter finishes, restart the device, then go to Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates to try again.
3. Clear the Windows Update cache (if errors persist)
This helps when downloads fail or updates get stuck.
- Press Win + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter - Find Windows Update, right-click it, and select Stop
- Open File Explorer and go to
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution - Delete all files and folders inside SoftwareDistribution (not the folder itself)
- Go back to Services, right-click Windows Update, and select Start
- Open Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates again
4. Check disk space and restart to apply pending updates
Some updates fail if there is not enough free space or if a previous update is waiting for a restart.
- Make sure there is sufficient free space on the system drive
- Select Start > Power and choose Update and restart or Update and shut down if those options are available
5. If a specific error code appears
Note the exact error code (for example 0x80070002, 0x80070005, 0x800705b4, 0x800f0922, etc.) and follow the targeted steps for that code in the Windows Update troubleshooting article.
If the problem continues, repair system files using:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
Then try Windows Update again.