Updates can pause because of low disk space, an unstable connection, a pending restart or a temporary download problem. Try one step at a time and check again after each one.
1. Restart, then check again
Choose Start → Power → Restart. When Windows has restarted, open Settings → Windows Update and choose Check for updates. A restart clears many temporary update locks.
2. Make sure there is free space
Feature updates need more free space than small security updates. Open File Explorer → This PC and check the available space on drive C:. If space is low, use Storage settings or the guide below before retrying.
3. Check the connection and power
Use a stable Wi‑Fi or Ethernet connection. On a laptop, connect the charger before a large update. If you are on a metered mobile connection, wait for a normal network if possible.
4. Run the built-in troubleshooter
In Windows 11, go to Start → Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters. Find Windows Update and select Run. Follow the on-screen steps, then restart and try the update again.
5. Note the error code
If you see a code such as 0x8007000d or 0xC1900101, write it down exactly. The code helps identify whether the issue is related to files, storage or a driver. Use Microsoft’s official update troubleshooting page rather than downloading random repair tools.