If you’re encountering issues while trying to install the cumulative update KB5053657 on your Windows 11 computer, you’re not alone. Many users face similar problems with updates failing to download or install properly. This guide will walk you through several effective steps to troubleshoot and resolve these issues, ensuring that your system is updated with the latest features and security patches.

Before starting, make sure your Windows 11 is running the appropriate version (either 23H2 or 22H2). You may want to back up important files and create a restore point. This will help safeguard your data in case any unexpected issues arise during the troubleshooting process.

Step 1: Start the App Readiness Service

The first step is to ensure that the App Readiness Service is running. This service is crucial for managing app updates during Windows updates. To start this service, follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type services.msc and hit Enter.
  3. In the Services window, scroll down to find the “App Readiness” service.
  4. Double-click on it and set the Startup type to Automatic.
  5. Click Start if the service is not running, then click OK.

Step 2: Move the $WinREAgent Folder

This step involves relocating the $WinREAgent folder, which can sometimes resolve update issues. Follow these instructions:

  1. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\.
  2. Look for the folder named $WinREAgent. If you cannot see it, ensure that hidden items are visible by selecting View > Show > Hidden items.
  3. Copy the $WinREAgent folder to your desktop as a backup.
  4. After backing it up, delete the original folder from the C drive.
  5. Return to Windows Update settings and click on Check for Updates.

Step 3: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Using the built-in troubleshooter can help identify and fix problems with Windows Updates:

  1. Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot.
  2. Select Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find the Windows Update troubleshooter and click Run.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

Step 4: Restart Windows Update and Background Intelligent Transfer Services

Restarting these services can sometimes clear issues preventing updates:

  1. Open the services.msc window again.
  2. Find and double-click on Windows Update, set it to Automatic, and start the service if it’s not already running.
  3. Repeat the above steps for the Background Intelligent Transfer Service.

Step 5: Use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant

If the previous steps did not resolve the issue, consider using the Windows 11 Installation Assistant:

  1. Download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant from the official Microsoft site: Windows 11 Installation Assistant.
  2. Run the downloaded executable and follow the prompts to install any available updates.

Step 6: Utilize the Microsoft Update Catalog

For a more manual approach, use the Microsoft Update Catalog to download the update directly:

  1. Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog website: Microsoft Update Catalog.
  2. Search for KB5053657 and download the appropriate version for your system (either 22H2 or 23H2).
  3. Install the downloaded update manually.

Step 7: Reset Windows Update Components

If all else fails, resetting Windows Update components can be a last resort to fix persistent issues. Here’s how:

  1. Open Notepad and copy the following commands into it:
  2. 
    SC config trustedinstaller start=auto
    net stop bits
    net stop wuauserv
    net stop msiserver
    net stop cryptsvc
    net stop appidsvc
    Ren %Systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
    Ren %Systemroot%\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
    regsvr32.exe /s atl.dll
    regsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dll
    regsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dll
    netsh winsock reset
    netsh winsock reset proxy
    rundll32.exe pnpclean.dll,RunDLL_PnpClean /DRIVERS /MAXCLEAN
    dism /Online /Cleanup-image /ScanHealth
    dism /Online /Cleanup-image /CheckHealth
    dism /Online /Cleanup-image /RestoreHealth
    dism /Online /Cleanup-image /StartComponentCleanup
    sfc /ScanNow
    net start bits
    net start wuauserv
    net start msiserver
    net start cryptsvc
    net start appidsvc
            
  3. Save the file as Wufix.bat on your desktop.
  4. Right-click on the Wufix.bat file and select Run as administrator.
  5. Allow the script to complete and then restart your computer.

Step 8: Use the Media Creation Tool

If the update still fails, consider using the Media Creation Tool to perform an in-place upgrade:

  1. Download the Media Creation Tool from the Microsoft website: Media Creation Tool.
  2. Run the tool and select the option to upgrade your PC now.
  3. Follow the prompts to download and install the latest version while keeping your files and settings.

Extra Tips & Common Issues

Here are some additional tips to help you navigate common issues:

  • Ensure that your internet connection is stable during updates.
  • Temporarily disable any antivirus software that might interfere with the update process.
  • Check for sufficient disk space on your system drive.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully resolve issues related to the installation of update KB5053657 on your Windows 11 device. Keeping your system updated is crucial for security and performance, so it’s important to address these issues promptly. If problems persist, consider seeking further assistance from Microsoft support or community forums.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the update fails again?

If the update fails after trying all the steps, consider performing a repair installation of Windows 11 using the Media Creation Tool.

Is it safe to delete the $WinREAgent folder?

Yes, deleting the $WinREAgent folder will not harm your system as long as you have backed it up. It can be recreated if needed.

How can I check my Windows version?

Press Windows + R, type winver, and hit Enter to open the version information window.

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