How to Fix Windows Update Error KB5060842 — Full Guide

You may have experienced it:

“Windows Update failed… again.”

Frustrating, isn’t it?

Today, we’re focusing on a recurring issue that many users face: the Windows Update error KB5060842.

In this guide, I’ll explain why this happens, and more importantly, how you can fix it — with simple, detailed steps that even beginners can follow. Let’s dive in!

What Is KB5060842?

KB5060842 is a preview update released in June 2025 for Windows 11.

Unlike security updates, preview updates mainly include bug fixes, minor improvements, and some early features that will later be officially included in the next cumulative update (for example, KB5069060).

While it’s not a critical security patch, repeated failures with KB5060842 may cause future updates to fail as well. That’s why it’s worth addressing the issue now.

Main Causes of KB5060842 Update Failure

Based on reports and troubleshooting cases, here are the most common reasons why KB5060842 may fail to install:

Recently, security software conflicts and outdated drivers have become increasingly common reasons for update failures.

Do You Really Need to Install KB5060842?

Since KB5060842 is a preview update, it’s not mandatory to install it immediately.

Here’s what you should know about preview updates:

• They are often listed as optional updates and not automatically installed.
• They focus on non-security fixes and minor improvements.
• Eventually, their contents are included in the next regular monthly update.

In short: if you repeatedly fail to install KB5060842, you can safely skip it and wait for the next official update, which will include its fixes anyway.

Typical Patterns Among Users Who Face KB5060842 Failures

From actual troubleshooting experiences, certain patterns often appear among users who struggle with this update:

Preventive tips that may help:

• Run Disk Cleanup before updating to clear old temporary files.
• Temporarily disable third-party antivirus (or rely solely on Windows Defender).
• Check for BIOS and driver updates.
• Always back up your important files beforehand.

Simple precautions like these can dramatically reduce the risk of update failures.

Solution ① Try Installing KB5069060 Instead

If KB5069060 (the next official cumulative update) is already available, try installing it first.

Because preview updates are usually rolled into the next cumulative update, installing KB5069060 may bypass the problem entirely.

Steps:

1. Open Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. If KB5069060 appears, install it first.

If successful, you can safely ignore KB5060842.

Solution ② Install in Safe Mode

Safe Mode launches Windows with minimal background processes, reducing potential conflicts.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → System → Recovery → Advanced Startup → Restart now.
2. Boot into Safe Mode (without network).
3. Run Windows Update again.

If antivirus interference was the cause, this often resolves the issue.

Solution ③ Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter (But Don’t Expect Miracles)

Windows provides a built-in troubleshooting tool for update problems:

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.
2. Select Windows Update and run the tool.

Note:

While easy to use, this tool often fixes only minor issues. For more stubborn problems, manual fixes are usually necessary.

Solution ④ Uninstall KB5060842 and Reattempt

If the update keeps failing, you can temporarily uninstall KB5060842 and retry.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → Windows Update → Update history → Uninstall updates.
2. Select KB5060842 and uninstall it.
3. Restart your PC and run Windows Update again.

Pro Tip ① Manually Download and Install the Update

Sometimes, manual installation succeeds even if automatic updates fail.

Steps:

1. Search for Microsoft Update Catalog KB5060842.
2. Download the standalone installer (MSU file) matching your system version.
3. Double-click the file to install manually.

This method often works if your Windows Update system isn’t completely broken.

Pro Tip ② Fully Reset the Windows Update Components

If nothing else works, you can fully reset the update system itself.

Steps:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Enter the following commands one by one:

3. Reboot and check Windows Update again.

This gives your update system a completely fresh start. I have personally solved many stubborn update failures using this method.

Summary Table: Best Solutions for KB5060842

Even if one method doesn’t work immediately, don’t get discouraged. Many update failures require trying several approaches before success. Stay patient, and step through the solutions one by one — most users eventually resolve the issue completely.

Closing Thoughts

Windows Update errors like KB5060842 can feel frustrating, but with the right approach, they are very often fixable.

“There’s always a solution.”

If you continue step by step as shown here, your system will be back on track!

✔️You might also find these helpful:

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▶︎June 2025 Windows 11 Update Errors – Complete Guide for Troubleshooting

タグ: Windows update, Windows Update Error, Update failed, Windows troubleshooting, safe mode, KB5060842, Manual Installation, Update Reset