The “Updates in progress” message typically appears during a Windows update when the operating system makes changes, replaces files, or installs new features.
It indicates that the system is currently running the update process and is usually not fully usable during this time. Here are some important details:
- After a restart: When Windows has downloaded updates and they will be installed after a restart.
- During a system start: When feature updates make extensive changes to the operating system.
- During shutdown: When updates need to be installed before shutting down.
2.) Meaning and Functionality
- Protect data integrity: During the installation of updates, Windows locks many system functions to avoid data loss or conflicts.
- Important system changes: The message indicates that major changes are being made to the system, such as replacing system files or drivers.
- Prevent interruptions: The message is designed to prevent users from forcibly turning off the system.
3.) What to do if the message remains longer?
- Wait: Large updates can take longer, especially on older PCs or slower hardware.
- Do not turn off: A forced shutdown can interrupt the update and damage the system.
- Check the progress bar: If there is no progress after hours, the system could freeze. In this case:
- Perform a forced restart.
- Start the PC in safe mode to fix any errors.
- Run tools such as `sfc /scannow` or `DISM` from the command prompt.
4.) Prevent unwanted updates
If the message is annoying or occurs frequently:
- Adjust update schedule: In the Windows settings, you can set active hours to schedule updates.
- Pause updates: Updates can be temporarily stopped for up to 7 days.
- Manual update management: In Pro and Enterprise versions, updates can be controlled via group policies or the registry editor.
5.) Common problems
- Slow progress: Can be caused by full hard drives, slow internet connections, or incompatible drivers.
- Endless loops: Sometimes Windows gets stuck in an update loop, requiring a manual repair.
6.) User questions and answers on the topic “Updates are in progress” in Windows 10, 11 and 12:
1. Why does Windows 12 show the message “Updates are in progress” every time I restart?
The message occurs when an update process has not been fully completed. Windows will attempt to complete the remaining steps on the next restart. This may be due to corrupted update files, lack of disk space, or faulty drivers. One solution is to clear the update cache (folder `C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution`) or use the Update Troubleshooter.
2. Can I force shut down Windows 11 while “Updates are in progress”?
A force shutdown is not advisable as it may damage the operating system. If the update process takes longer than 2 hours, rebooting into safe mode may help resolve the issue. Then use `sfc /scannow` and `DISM` to repair system files.
3. How long does “Updates in progress” last in Windows 10?
The time varies depending on the update size, internet speed and hardware. Smaller updates usually take less than 15 minutes, while large feature updates can take up to an hour. If the installation takes an unusually long time, check the disk usage in Task Manager.
4. Why is my Windows 11 PC stuck on “Updates are in progress”?
The problem may be caused by a conflict with antivirus software, corrupted drivers, or insufficient disk space. Start the PC in Safe Mode and run the Windows Update troubleshooter. Updating the drivers via Device Manager may also help.
5. Can I cancel “Updates are in progress” in Windows 12?
You cannot cancel updates while they are installing. However, you can pause scheduled updates before they install. To do so, go to Settings > Windows Update > Pause updates to avoid unwanted installations.
6. Why does the message appear after every Windows 10 update?
Windows sometimes performs multiple update steps that are spread over multiple reboots. This repeated display could also be caused by failed updates. Clear the update history or use the `Reset Windows Update Components` tool to fix the problem.
7. What happens if I turn off the power while Windows 11 shows “Updates are in progress”?
A sudden power outage during the update may result in corrupted system files. This may put Windows into a boot loop. You can try to repair the PC using installation media by selecting the "Repair your computer options".
8. Can I skip “Updates are in progress” in Windows 10?
No, you cannot skip the process while updates are installing. However, to avoid future interruptions, turn on Active Hours under Settings > Windows Update > Adjust Active Hours .
9. Why does Windows 12 take so long to update?
The time it takes depends on the speed of your hard drive (SSD vs. HDD), internet connection, and number of programs installed. SSDs can speed up the process significantly. Update drivers and clear the update cache to improve speed.
10. Is there a way to speed up “Updates are in progress” in Windows 11?
Yes, you can speed up updates by:
1. Closing all unnecessary programs.
2. Making sure there is enough free disk space.
3. Clearing the update cache at `C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution`.
11. Why does Windows 10 get stuck at 100% when it says “Updates are in progress”?
This problem occurs when background services are blocked or the system was not shut down properly. A force restart in Safe Mode and resetting Windows Update components may help.
12. Can I disable “Updates in progress” in Windows 11 permanently?
You can disable automatic updates with tools like Wu10Man or use group policies to only install updates manually. Note that this poses security risks as important patches could be missing.
13. Why does Windows 12 show “Updates in progress” when shutting down?
This message indicates that Windows is installing pending updates before shutting down the system. It is a security measure to ensure that all changes are applied correctly.
14. What should I do if my Windows 10 PC won't start after "Updates are in progress"?
1. Boot the PC in Safe Mode.
2. Run `sfc /scannow` to repair corrupted files.
3. Use System Restore or recovery media to fix the problem.
15. Why does Windows 12 take longer for “Updates in progress” to appear than Windows 11?
Windows 12 may include major updates with new features that require more time to install. Additionally, new security mechanisms may lengthen the process.
16. Can I check the progress while “Updates are in progress” in Windows 11?
Yes, progress is often shown as a percentage. If the display hangs, you can check the disk activity in Task Manager to make sure the process is running.
17. Can I force Windows 10 to skip “Updates are in progress”?
Not during installation. However, you can block future updates before they are installed by using Microsoft's "Show or Hide Updates" tool.
18. How much storage space does Windows 12 need for updates?
Size varies, but a typical feature update requires about 20-30 GB of free space. Use storage optimization in Settings to free up space.
19. What to do if Windows 11 won't start after an update?
Boot into recovery mode and select “Last known good configuration” or perform a system restore.
20. Why are feature updates appearing more frequently in Windows 12 than in Windows 10?
Windows 12 has a stronger focus on new features and will likely be updated more frequently as a servicing model, similar to Windows 11.
21. Can I speed up “Updates in progress” in Windows 10?
Yes, close all applications, perform a clean boot and make sure there are no background programs blocking the process.
22. Why does Windows 12 hang on “Step 3 of 3” during updates?
This often happens when a specific update fails. Boot into Safe Mode and install the updates manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
23. Why does Windows 11 need Internet for updates?
Most updates are downloaded from Microsoft servers. Offline updates are possible if you download the update files from the official website.
24. How do I prevent Windows 10 from installing updates while I'm at work?
Enable Active Hours or set updates to manual. In the Pro versions you can use group policies.
25. How do I know if “Updates are in progress” is working on Windows 12?
Check the activity in Task Manager, especially CPU and disk usage. Visible progress shows that the update is not stuck.
FAQ 130: Updated on: 20 November 2024 20:57Windows
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