In most situations, the updates run in the background and are applied automatically. Anyway, in rare situations, a particular update might get stuck or blocked by the Windows system, and that’s when you will most likely receive the following error message: This error prompt is displayed when the Update cannot be completed – it can be an Internet connection error, a corrupted system file, a limited disk space, or a similar malfunction. But, the most important thing is to address the issues so that you can resume the implied Update – To do so, you can use the troubleshooting steps below.
Why can’t I turn on the Windows Update service?
In the first place, there may be problems with your Internet connection. Check to see if it is secure before proceeding with any next steps. When there isn’t enough space on the disk for updates, they will either stop operating entirely or refuse to start at all if there isn’t enough space. Antivirus software developed by a third party that conflicts with the standard Windows procedure is another typical cause. Below, we will discuss all of these possibilities, as well as others, and suggest some superior alternatives to the antivirus software you’re now using.
Why does the Couldn’t connect to the update service error appear?
The Windows Update couldn’t connect to the update service error usually appears if the required services aren’t running, and we wrote in-depth on what to do if Windows Update Services are not running. If Windows Update is not working, the services are the most likely cause, but your Internet connection could also be the problem, so make sure your connection is stable and working correctly. It’s essential to fix this issue as soon as possible, or else you might encounter Your device is missing important security and quality fixes messages, which means that your system is vulnerable and out of date. Here are a few versions and variations of the error that you may encounter:
We couldn’t connect to the update service Server 2022 Windows Update service not connecting We couldn’t connect to the update service Server 2016 We couldn’t connect to the update service Windows 10 21h2 We couldn’t connect to the update service wsus
How can I fix the We couldn’t connect to the update service error?
1. Verify your Internet connection
First, verify your Internet connection, as everything should run properly. If you’re using a Wi-Fi connection, it may be better to reset your router first. Also, restart your Windows 10 device, and while doing so, disconnect any recently connected peripherals. Finally, repeat the update process – the Update should be displayed under Windows Updates:
2. Make sure you have enough disk space
Sometimes, if the free space left on your hard drive is limited, the Update cannot be applied so that you can receive the We couldn’t connect to the update service. We’ll try again later, or you can check now error message.
3. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
A scan will be initiated to look for system errors that might interfere with the update operation. The same troubleshooter will then try to fix everything automatically. SPONSORED In the end, restart your Windows 10 computer and reinitiate the update process, as already explained.
4. Run a system scan
Along with the Windows Update Troubleshooter, you should also run another scan, which is more general. With this scan, you can manage to fix corrupted system files and other essential errors and malfunctions which might block the Windows 10 update service. If you’re having trouble accessing Command Prompt as an admin, you better look at our dedicated guide to see what you can do.
5. Check the disk for corrupted sectors
When was the last time you initiated a defragment operation for your C drive? Or when was the last time you checked for errors within your hard drive? If you are currently experiencing this, We couldn’t connect to the update service. We’ll try again later, or you can check now update error. A good idea will be to verify the integrity of your hard drive.
6. Disable the antivirus protection
If you are using third-party security solutions, you should temporarily try to disable the antivirus protection. For example, the Windows update might be blocked by the antivirus software. So, disable these programs and then retry the update process. Don’t forget to re-enable your security programs in the end, to be able to secure your files and the existing Windows system. If you’re unsatisfied with your current antivirus solutions, check out our post on the best antivirus tools you can use now. Then, install the one that best suits your needs.
7. Install the Update manually
If the Windows update is still blocked or the flashing process cannot be completed appropriately, you should try installing it manually. Find your particular Windows 10 update, download it on your computer and install it by following on-screen prompts.
What can I do if the PC couldn’t connect to the update service on Windows 11?
Services are programs that function in the background of a computer system without presenting a user interface. They are responsible for enabling various system functionalities. Even though the operating system does a very decent job of controlling the background services, there are instances when you will need to handle them manually. This may be the case when a feature or app isn’t functioning correctly or when an app requires you to manage its services directly.
How do I restart the Windows Update service in Windows 10?
Thus, those troubleshooting solutions should be applied if you cannot use a specific Windows 10 update or when you receive the We couldn’t connect to the update service. We’ll try again later, or you can check now error message. For more solutions, we recommend you look at our post on what to do if Windows Update is not showing/missing a button on Win 10/11. If you know another workaround that might fix this issue, don’t hesitate to share it with our readers and us – you can do that easily by using the comments field below.
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