Fix We cant install some updates because other updates are in progress

Encountering the message “We can’t install some updates because other updates are in progress” on Windows PC? This error typically means that the Windows Update service is stuck in a loop, believing that another update is currently being installed or processed, even if it isn’t. Well windows update service is designed to manage and install updates sequentially. If for some reason this service gets stuck, it can prevent new updates from being installed, leading to potential security vulnerabilities and system instability. Let’s explore the common reason behind this and the troubleshooting steps help you fix and install Windows updates right way.

Why Does windows can’t install some updates?

When Windows is installing an update, it uses the Windows Installer service (msiserver) to manage the process. To ensure system stability, Windows prevents other updates from being installed simultaneously. However, if there is file corruption or a problem with the Windows Installer service, the system might incorrectly assume an update is still in progress, even when it is not. This can block subsequent updates and display the error message: “We can’t install some updates because other updates are in progress.”

Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart is all you need to clear pending updates and allow new ones to install.

1. Click Start, then select Restart from the Power menu.
2. After the restart, check for updates again by navigating to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and clicking Check for updates.

Restarting your PC clears temporary glitches that may be causing the Windows Update service to malfunction and result such error.

Manually Complete Pending Updates

Pending updates often block new installations. You can check and complete them manually.

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Look for updates marked as “Pending install” or “Restart required.”
3. If prompted, click Install now or Restart now to complete the installation

Sometimes, an update might have finished downloading but requires a restart to complete the installation.

Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to automatically diagnose and fix common update problems.

1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
2. Click on Additional troubleshooters.
3. Select Windows Update, then click Run the troubleshooter.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions and let the troubleshooter resolve the issues.

Restart Windows Installer service

Manually restarting the related services can often resolve the issue.

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Locate the following services:
   • Windows Update
   • Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
   • Cryptographic Services
3. Right-click each service and select Restart.
4. After restarting the services, check for updates again.

Clear Windows Update Cache

Again Corrupted files in the update cache can cause problems. Clearing this cache forces Windows Update to download fresh copies of update files.

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Stop the Windows Update service by right-clicking it and selecting Stop.
3. Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution.
4. Delete all files and folders inside the SoftwareDistribution folder.
5. Restart the Windows Update service.
6. Check for updates again in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

Use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) Tool

DISM can repair corrupted system files that might be interfering with Windows Update.

• Open Command Prompt as administrator
• Type the command DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter
• This process can take some time. Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
• Once the scanning complete, reboot your PC and try install windows update again.

Perform a Clean Boot

Third-party applications or services may interfere with Windows Update. Performing a clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, which can help identify and resolve such conflicts.

1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
3. Check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
4. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
5. Disable all startup items.
6. Restart your PC and check for updates.

Update Windows Manually

If automatic updates fail, you can download and install updates manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog.

1. Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.
2. Search for the KB number of the update you need.
3. Download the update and run the installer.

Sometimes, third-party antivirus or firewall software can interfere with Windows Update. Temporarily disabling these programs might help. Remember to re-enable them afterwards. Again If the problem started recently, you can try restoring your system to a previous point in time before the issue began.

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