Fix: Windows Update Assistant not working

Windows Update Assistant by Microsoft helps users in upgrading their Windows operating system to the latest version. This is specifically useful when you want to upgrade to a new version of Windows, such as from Windows 10 to Windows 11, or when you want to install a bigger feature update for your existing Windows installation. Windows Update Assistant may also be known as Installation Assistant. This article describes how you can resolve Windows Update Assistant not working on Windows 11/10.

Windows Update Assistant tool is designed to ensure a smooth and controlled upgrade process by checking your system’s compatibility with the new version, downloading the necessary files, and guiding you through the installation steps. It can be helpful for those who want to proceed with much care for upgrading to new version.

Remember, the Windows Update Assistant tool is distinct from the regular Windows Update process. Regular Windows Update available at Settings > Update & Security, handles smaller updates, security patches, and driver updates, while the Windows Update Assistant focuses on system upgrades or feature upgrades.

In case if the Windows Update Assistant is not working properly, you can try a few troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue. Here are some steps you can follow:

Fix: Windows Update Assistant not working

Fix 1: Restart Your Computer

Do a quick and simple restart can resolve many software-related issues.

Right click on Start button, select Shut down or sign out and then select Restart.

Try running the Windows Update Assistant again.

Fix 2: Run Windows Troubleshooter

Windows includes built-in troubleshooters that can automatically diagnose and fix various issues.

To run the Windows Update troubleshooter, follow these steps:

1. Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
2. If you’re on Windows 10, go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot. If you’re on Windows 11, go to System > Troubleshoot.
3. Click on Additional troubleshooters and then click Run next to Windows Update.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooter.

Fix 3: Disable Security Software

Your antivirus or firewall software might be blocking the Windows Update Assistant from functioning.

Temporarily disable your security software and try running the Update Assistant again. Remember to re-enable your security software afterward to ensure system protection.

Fix 4: Check Internet Connection

Make sure your Internet connection is stable and working properly.

A slow or unstable Internet connection can affect the functioning of the Windows Update Assistant.

You can run Network Adapter troubleshooter from Settings > System > Troubleshoot for scanning network issues.

Fix 5: Manually Download Updates

If the Update Assistant continues to have issues, you can manually download and install updates from the official Microsoft website.

Go to the Microsoft Update Catalog (https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Home.aspx), search for the updates you need, download them, and install them manually.

Fix 6: Clear Windows Update Cache

On some systems, corrupt Windows Update cache files can cause this issue. You can try clearing the Windows Update cache to see if it helps.

Open Command Prompt as administrator.

Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:

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

After executing these commands, restart your computer and try running the Windows Update Assistant again.

Fix 7: Check for System File Corruption

Corrupted system files can cause various issues, including problems with the Windows Update Assistant.

You can use the built-in System File Checker tool to scan and repair corrupted system files.

Open a Command Prompt with administrative privileges and run the command: sfc /scannow.

Fix 8: Perform Repair Upgrade

If none of the above solutions work, you might consider performing a repair upgrade of Windows. This process will keep your files and applications intact while repairing any system-related issues.

Make sure to create a backup of your important files before attempting any major changes to your system.

Hope this helps!

Must read: Remove Windows Update Assistant Permanently.