I need help installing windows security updates

Question

I am having problems with installing security updates. fails to complete install. I tried various help suggestions. Also, I am using AI copilot.

Answer 1

Hi Robert, Thank you for choosing Copilot PC as your next device. What is the exact error code do you get?

The first step would be to try resetting Windows updates using an automatic script.

Reset Windows updates in Windows 10/11

http://www.yourwindowsguide.com/2015/12/windows-update-complete-reset-in.html

Download the file > Right-click it and run as administrator. Reboot and check for updates again.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/ot1kwb78h3rpx3z/WuReset2.0.bat?dl=1

Disclaimer:

Content in the above blog is written by a former Windows Insider MVP, so it is safe. Do watch out for the ads.

Answer 2

If you are having trouble installing Windows security updates, here are some common issues and their solutions:

1. Check for a Valid ESU Key: Ensure that a valid Extended Security Updates (ESU) key is installed and activated on your computer. You can verify this by running the command slmgr /dlv in an elevated Command Prompt. If the ESU key is not licensed, you will need to install and activate it.
2. Windows Module Installer Update: If you encounter a message stating that "The Windows Modules Installer must be updated before you can install this package," it may indicate that the Servicing Stack Update (SSU) is not installed. Verify that the SSU package is installed by checking under Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features > View Installed updates. If it is not installed, download and install it, then restart your computer.
3. Error Codes: If you receive specific error codes during installation, such as 0x80070bc9 or 0x80070020, these may indicate issues with the TrustedInstaller service or sharing violations caused by third-party software. For the 0x80070bc9 error, ensure that the TrustedInstaller service is set to "Automatic" and restart your computer. For the 0x80070020 error, consider performing a clean boot to eliminate interference from other applications.
4. Corrupted Update Packages: If updates are failing due to corrupted packages, you can delete staged update packages using the Dism command. Run Dism /online /get-packages to find staged packages and then remove them with Dism /online /remove-package /PackageName:<PackageName>.
5. Component Store Corruption: If the component store is corrupted, you can repair it using the commands Dism.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth and sfc /scannow from an elevated Command Prompt.

Following these steps should help you resolve issues with installing Windows security updates. If problems persist, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support for further assistance.

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References:

• Troubleshoot issues in ESU
• Windows Update common errors and mitigation