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Update Found But Won't Download

Beginner Windows Update Problems Applies to: Windows 10, Windows 11

Windows Update finds an update but the download bar never moves, or resets to 0%.

Before you start: save any open work and note down what you were doing when the problem started — that context helps if you need to search further or ask for help.
  1. Check that "Delivery Optimization" isn't the issue: on Windows 11, Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Delivery Optimization; on Windows 10, Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Advanced options > Delivery Optimization — try turning off "Allow downloads from other PCs."
  2. If you're on metered Wi-Fi, Windows throttles or pauses big downloads — check Settings > Network & internet > and make sure your connection isn't marked as metered.
  3. Restart the router if downloads consistently stall partway through, which points to a flaky connection rather than Windows itself.
  4. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter, which specifically checks for and repairs corrupted download components.
  5. If nothing works, download the update manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog using its KB number and install it directly.
Still not fixed? Send us the details and we'll help you dig further, or browse related guides in Windows Update Problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my internet connection speed matter here?
A slow connection can make downloads take longer, but it shouldn't cause them to fail outright or stay at 0%. If a download genuinely won't start or progress at all, that points to a setting or service issue rather than connection speed.
Will pausing and resuming the download lose progress?
No — Windows Update downloads resume from where they left off rather than starting over, so pausing to check a setting and resuming afterward is safe.

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