Alex Ruben
How to Fix the “We Couldn’t Complete the Updates” Error on Windows 10/11
If you find yourself facing the frustrating “We couldn’t complete the updates, undoing changes” error on your Windows 10 or 11 computer, you’re not alone. This issue can occur during system updates and may leave your PC in a loop, preventing further updates or even proper usage. Fortunately, this guide will provide you with step-by-step solutions to resolve this error effectively. By following these methods, you will not only fix the immediate problem but also improve the reliability of your Windows Update process, ensuring your system stays up-to-date and secure.
Before proceeding, ensure you have administrative access to your Windows system and that your computer is plugged into a power source to avoid interruptions during the process. You will be using built-in tools like the Services Manager and Command Prompt, so familiarity with these utilities will be beneficial.
Step 1: Restart Windows Update Services
The first step is to restart the Windows Update services, which may resolve any temporary glitches causing the update error. Here’s how to do it:
- Press the Windows key, type Services, and press Enter.
- In the Services window, scroll down to locate Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS).
- Right-click on it and select Properties.
- In the Properties window, click on Stop if the service is running, then click Start to restart it.
- Set the Startup type to Automatic and click Apply, then OK.
- Next, find the Windows Update service, double-click it, and repeat the same process: stop and start the service, set it to Automatic, and apply the changes.
Step 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Scans
Corrupted system files can cause update errors. Running the System File Checker and DISM tools can help repair these files:
- Open the Start menu, type cmd, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
- Wait for the process to complete, which may take some time.
- After the DISM command finishes, run the following command:
- Again, wait for the scan to finish. If any issues are found, the tool will attempt to repair them automatically.
dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
sfc /scannow
Step 3: Restart Your Computer
Once the scans are complete, restart your computer to apply the changes. You can do this from the Start menu by selecting Restart. This step is crucial as it ensures that any modifications made during the previous steps take effect.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
While following the steps above should resolve the update error, here are some additional tips to help prevent future occurrences:
- Ensure your Windows system is always updated to the latest version to benefit from the latest patches and fixes.
- Regularly run system maintenance tasks, such as disk cleanup and defragmentation, to keep your system running smoothly.
- If you continue to face issues, consider checking your internet connection or temporarily disabling third-party antivirus software, as they can interfere with updates.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the “We couldn’t complete the updates, undoing changes” error on your Windows 10 or 11 system. Keeping your system updated is essential for security and performance, so addressing these errors promptly is vital. If you encounter further issues, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support for additional assistance or consulting their official resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if the error persists after following these steps?
If the error continues, check for any specific error codes that may appear during the update process and look them up for tailored solutions. You may also want to look into performing a clean boot to eliminate third-party software conflicts.
Will running these commands affect my data?
No, running the SFC and DISM commands is safe and will not delete your personal files or applications. They are designed to repair system files only.
Is there a way to prevent this error from happening again?
Yes, regularly keeping your system updated and ensuring that all software is compatible can help prevent future issues. Additionally, regularly checking for driver updates can also improve your system’s stability.