Introduction: “Checking for Updates” Never Finishes?
Have you noticed your Windows 11 PC stuck on “Checking for updates…” for an unusually long time? You’re not alone.
Since the rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2, many users have reported that Windows Update hangs indefinitely during the scanning phase. Even after several restarts, the scan doesn’t complete, leaving users unable to install updates and feeling frustrated.
Fortunately, Microsoft has acknowledged this issue and recommends applying KB5062324 or KB5058499 manually to resolve the problem. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the causes, solutions, and hidden tips to get your update process back on track.
Why Is the Update Scan Not Responding?
This issue appears to be triggered by inconsistencies in the Windows Update services or cache, especially after upgrading to version 24H2. The following are the most common causes:
• Background services like wuauserv or BITS are malfunctioning
• Corrupted update cache prevents the scan from progressing
• Internal update blocks or unmet conditions are stalling the scan
The result? The scanning process becomes unresponsive even though the system is technically connected to the update servers.
Microsoft’s Recommendation: Install KB5062324 or KB5058499 Manually
To address the issue, Microsoft recommends manually installing one of the following cumulative updates:
• KB5062324 (released June 2025)
• KB5058499 (earlier preview update)
Applying either of these updates manually can reset the update mechanism and allow the system to resume scanning and installing updates normally.
Fix #1: Manually Install the Update via Microsoft Update Catalog
Step-by-step Instructions:
1. Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog
2. Search for KB5062324 or KB5058499
3. Choose the correct architecture (e.g., x64) and click “Download”
4. Open the .msu file after download to begin installation
5. Restart your computer
• This method works even if Windows Update is currently unresponsive
• Ensure you download the correct version (32-bit or 64-bit)
Fix #2: Use the Built-in Troubleshooter for Windows Update
If the manual install doesn’t help, try running the Windows Update troubleshooter:
1. Go to Settings → System
→ Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters
2. Find Windows Update and click Run
3. Let the tool detect and fix any problems, then restart
The troubleshooter may not fix deeper issues like cache corruption, but it’s a quick first step worth trying.
Fix #3: Reset the Windows Update Cache (Advanced)
If you’re comfortable using the command prompt, resetting the update cache manually is a powerful option.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run the following:
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
renC:\Windows\SoftwareDistributionSoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
What this does:
- Stops all update-related services
- Renames (backs up) the existing update cache folders
- Restarts the services, allowing Windows to rebuild fresh update data
Hidden Tips and Tricks
Restart Windows Update Services Manually
Sometimes, simply restarting the update-related services can solve the issue:
- Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter
- Find Windows Update and Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
- Right-click and choose Restart
This resets the services without needing to clear the cache.
Delete SoftwareDistribution Folder via File Explorer
If you prefer a graphical method over the command prompt:
- Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
- Delete all contents (you may need admin rights)
- Restart your PC
- Try checking for updates again
Use “Pause Updates” to Avoid Overloading the System
If repeated attempts fail, consider pausing updates for a few days:
- Go to Settings → Windows Update → Pause updates for 1 week
This gives your system time to stabilize and may resolve the issue after a reboot.
Preventive Measures: How to Avoid This in the Future
To reduce the chance of similar issues in the future:
- Apply new cumulative updates (like KB5062324) as soon as they are released
- Don’t ignore slow scans—run the troubleshooter early
- Use Storage Sense to regularly clear unnecessary files
- Set up a System Restore Point before any major update
Summary Table
Here’s a quick overview of the issues and solutions:
Situation | Recommended Fix | Notes |
---|---|---|
Update scan stuck | Install KB5062324 or KB5058499 manually | Microsoft’s official fix |
Update services malfunctioning | Restart Windows Update and BITS from Services | Requires admin access |
Cache corruption suspected | Delete SoftwareDistribution folder | Restart after deletion |
Issues persist after fixes | Use Windows Update Troubleshooter | Quick and automated repair |
Multiple failed attempts | Temporarily pause updates | Can be resumed anytime |
If your Windows 11 PC is stuck on “Checking for updates” and won’t finish scanning, you’re likely affected by a known bug in version 24H2. Don’t worry—applying KB5062324 or KB5058499 manually can resolve the issue in most cases.
And if that doesn’t work, try resetting the update cache or restarting services manually. Taking early action can save you from hours of frustration and keep your system protected with the latest patches.
Stay informed, and don’t hesitate to act when Windows Update misbehaves!
💡 Looking for more tips? Check out our full list of Windows Help Guides.