Quick Tip: How To Troubleshoot Windows Update on Windows 7, 8.1 and 10

Microsoft's new online troubleshooting wizard will help you fix Windows Update problems on Windows 7, 8.1 and 10.

Richard Hay, Senior Content Producer

December 28, 2016

1 Min Read
Quick Tip: How To Troubleshoot Windows Update on Windows 7, 8.1 and 10

All three of the most recent editions of Windows, versions 7, 8.1 and 10, all have tools that can help you troubleshoot various problems with the operating system.

A common error that can occur for various reasons is broken Windows Updates which results in the end users inability to properly download and install any type of update including security and performance related fixes.

This can be very frustrating and then if you do not know how to access the proper troubleshooter or where to go check to try and remedy the issue then it only adds to the overall frustration levels.

Although I am not sure this new Fix Windows Update Errors page from Microsoft Support is a direct response to reducing that frustration, it does provide a one stop shop to point you to the right method of troubleshooting any Windows Update errors with the last three major Windows versions.

To access the wizard just visit the Fix Windows Update Errors page and scroll down until you see the option to pick your OS.

The next screen will vary depending on your operating system selection.

Windows 10

Windows 8.1

Windows 7

Just answer the questions from the wizard as you complete each step until your Windows Update is working again or you get directed to further support options.

But, wait...there's probably more so be sure to follow me on Twitter and Google+.

About the Author

Richard Hay

Senior Content Producer, IT Pro Today (Informa Tech)

I served for 29 plus years in the U.S. Navy and retired as a Master Chief Petty Officer in November 2011. My work background in the Navy was telecommunications related so my hobby of computers fit well with what I did for the Navy. I consider myself a tech geek and enjoy most things in that arena.

My first website – AnotherWin95.com – came online in 1995. Back then I used GeoCities Web Hosting for it and WindowsObserver.com is the result of the work I have done on that site since 1995.

In January 2010 my community contributions were recognized by Microsoft when I received my first Most Valuable Professional (MVP) Award for the Windows Operating System. Since then I have been renewed as a Microsoft MVP each subsequent year since that initial award. I am also a member of the inaugural group of Windows Insider MVPs which began in 2016.

I previously hosted the Observed Tech PODCAST for 10 years and 317 episodes and now host a new podcast called Faith, Tech, and Space. 

I began contributing to Penton Technology websites in January 2015 and in April 2017 I was hired as the Senior Content Producer for Penton Technology which is now Informa Tech. In that role, I contribute to ITPro Today and cover operating systems, enterprise technology, and productivity.

https://twitter.com/winobs

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