Commands to Start Windows Update

To start Windows Update from the Command Prompt (CMD), you can use the following steps. These commands will allow you to check for updates, download them, and install them.

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Commands to Start Windows Update

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
   • Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click, and select Run as Administrator.
2. Force Windows Update to Check for Updates: Run the following command to start the update check:

   wuauclt /detectnow
   

3. Start Windows Update Download and Installation: Use the following command to force updates to download and install:

   wuauclt /updatenow
   

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Alternative Method: Using PowerShell (Preferred)

If wuauclt commands do not work (deprecated in recent versions), use PowerShell instead.

1. Open PowerShell as Administrator:
   • Press Windows + S, type powershell, right-click, and select Run as Administrator.
2. Run the Windows Update Command:

   Install-WindowsUpdate -AcceptAll -IgnoreReboot
   

   (You might need to install the PSWindowsUpdate module for this. See instructions below.)

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Using the Windows Update Service (Command)

You can also restart the Windows Update service to ensure updates are applied:

1. Restart the Windows Update Service:

   net stop wuauserv
   net start wuauserv
   

2. Start the Update Process:

   usoclient StartScan
   

   • StartScan: Forces Windows to check for updates.
   • StartDownload: Starts downloading updates.
   • StartInstall: Installs the updates.

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Full Workflow for Windows Update in CMD

1. Stop the Windows Update Service:

   net stop wuauserv
   net stop bits
   

2. Delete the Update Cache (Optional): This can fix issues with failed updates.

   del /f /s /q %windir%\SoftwareDistribution\*
   

3. Restart the Services:

   net start wuauserv
   net start bits
   

4. Start Windows Update:

   usoclient StartScan
   

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

• If Windows Update commands fail, ensure that:
  • The Windows Update service is running:

    services.msc
    

    Locate Windows Update, and ensure it is Running.

  • The system is not in “Metered Connection” mode.

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Let me know if you encounter specific errors or if you’d like further assistance!