James Harper
How to Resolve the “Updates Are Underway” Loop in Windows 10 and 11
If you’ve encountered the frustrating “Updates are underway. Please keep your computer on” screen while your Windows system attempts to install updates, you’re not alone. This issue can leave your computer stuck in a loop for an indefinite period, causing concern among users. In this guide, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions to troubleshoot and resolve this issue effectively. By following the steps outlined, you can get your system back to normal and ensure a smoother update experience in the future.
Before you begin, ensure that you are using a computer running Windows 10 or Windows 11. This guide applies to various devices including laptops, desktops, and tablets from manufacturers like Dell, HP, Lenovo, and others. Make sure your device is plugged in to avoid power interruptions during the troubleshooting process.
Step 1: Be Patient and Wait
Sometimes, the simplest solution is to wait it out. Windows updates can take a significant amount of time depending on your hardware and the size of the updates. If your system has been displaying the message for less than 30 minutes, it’s advisable to remain patient and allow the update process to complete. Interruptions can lead to further complications.
Step 2: Power Cycle Your Computer
If your computer has been stuck on the update screen for over an hour, it may be time to power cycle your machine. Hold down the power button until the computer shuts off. Wait for a few moments, then turn it back on. This often prompts the system to resume or restart the update process.
Step 3: Use Safe Mode to Troubleshoot
If the issue persists after a power cycle, boot your computer into Safe Mode. To do this, restart your computer and, during the startup, repeatedly press the F8 key until you see the Advanced Boot Options menu. Select Safe Mode and press Enter. In Safe Mode, you can attempt to complete the updates or rollback the updates if necessary.
Step 4: Access Windows Recovery Environment
If Safe Mode does not resolve the issue, you may need to access the Windows Recovery Environment. Restart your computer and interrupt the boot process three times to trigger the recovery mode. Once in the recovery menu, select Troubleshoot, then Advanced options, and finally Startup Repair to fix any potential issues with the update process.
Step 5: Roll Back Recent Updates
If the updates are still causing problems, you can try to roll back the updates. Within the Windows Recovery Environment, navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Uninstall Updates. This will allow you to remove problematic updates that may be causing your system to hang.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
When dealing with update issues, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Always ensure your device is plugged in during updates to prevent power loss.
- Regularly check for updates to avoid large update files that may take longer to install.
- If frequent issues occur, consider performing a system file check using the command
sfc /scannowin the Command Prompt.
Conclusion
Encountering the “Updates are underway” message can be frustrating, but with patience and the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively resolve the issue. By following these instructions, you can help ensure that your Windows updates complete successfully and your system runs smoothly. If you continue to experience problems, consider seeking professional help or visiting the Microsoft Support website for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my update takes too long?
If your update is taking excessively long, it’s best to wait for at least an hour. If it still hasn’t progressed, consider power cycling your computer.
Can I prevent update issues in the future?
To avoid update issues, ensure your system is regularly updated, keep sufficient disk space available, and check for updates frequently.
What if I can’t access Safe Mode?
If you are unable to access Safe Mode, you may need to create a recovery drive on another Windows computer to repair your system.