Deleting Failed or Pending Windows Updates on Windows

Introduction
In the Windows operating system, updates play a crucial role in ensuring the security, stability, and performance of the system. However, there are instances when updates fail to install properly, resulting in failed or pending updates. These failed or pending updates can cause various issues, such as system instability, software conflicts, or even security vulnerabilities. Therefore, it is important to know how to delete these failed or pending updates to maintain a healthy and optimized Windows environment.

Examples:
1. Deleting Failed Updates using Windows Update Troubleshooter:

• Open the Control Panel and navigate to "Troubleshooting".


• Under "System and Security", click on "Fix problems with Windows Update".


• Follow the on-screen instructions to run the Windows Update Troubleshooter, which will automatically detect and delete any failed updates.

2. Deleting Pending Updates using Command Prompt:

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator.


• Type the command "net stop wuauserv" and press Enter. This will stop the Windows Update service.


• Navigate to the "C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution" folder.


• Delete all the contents of the "Download" folder.


• Type the command "net start wuauserv" and press Enter to start the Windows Update service again.

3. Deleting Failed or Pending Updates using PowerShell:

• Open PowerShell as an administrator.


• Run the command "Get-WindowsUpdateLog" to generate a log file.


• Open the log file and search for the update that failed or is pending.


• Note down the update's KB number.


• Run the command "wusa /uninstall /kb:" to uninstall the specific update.