Are you facing issues with updating your Windows 8.1? It can be frustrating when you’re unable to install important security updates and enjoy the latest features. Fortunately, there are several quick and effective solutions to resolve this problem. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to fix the Windows 8.1 update issue and ensure a smooth and hassle-free update process.
Why Windows 8.1 Updates Fail to Download
Before we dive into the solutions, it’s crucial to understand why your Windows 8.1 updates may fail to download. There could be several reasons behind this issue, including:
Missing or Corrupted Windows Update Files: Some important Windows Update files may be missing or corrupted, preventing the update process.
Insufficient Disk Space: Not having enough free disk space on your computer can hinder the update installation.
Interference from Non-Microsoft Apps: Certain non-Microsoft apps may interfere with the Windows Update process, causing it to fail.
Firewall Restrictions: Your firewall settings may be blocking the update, preventing it from downloading and installing.
Issues with Windows Update Tool: Occasionally, the Windows Update tool itself may experience technical glitches, leading to update failures.
Presence of Malware or Viruses: Malware or viruses on your PC can disrupt the update process and prevent successful installations.
Now that we understand the potential causes, let’s explore the quick fixes to resolve the Windows 8.1 update issue.
Action 1: Check for Installed Updates
The first step is to check whether the Windows 8.1 update has already been installed on your computer. To do this:
- Go to the Start screen and look for a Search button near your account name at the top-right corner. If you see the Search button, it indicates that the Windows 8.1 update is already installed.
If you have confirmed that the update hasn’t been installed, proceed to the next action to manually install the Windows 8.1 update.
Action 2: Manually Install Windows 8.1 Update
If the Windows 8.1 update is not detected, you can manually install it using the following steps:
Ensure that you have sufficient free disk space on your computer. For a 64-bit version of Windows 8.1, you need at least 2 GB of free space, while a 32-bit version requires 0.8 GB. Windows RT 8.1 requires 1.1 GB of free space.
Make sure your internet connection is stable and working properly.
Open the Settings menu by clicking on the Start button and selecting Change PC settings.
Navigate to Update and recovery > Windows Update.
Click on Check now to search for available updates.
If updates are found, click View details to see the available updates.
Select the update that contains KB 2919355 and click Install.
Enter your administrator password or confirmation if prompted.
Wait for the installation process to complete.
Restart your computer and check if the update was successfully installed.
Action 3: Download and Install Windows 8.1 Update
If the manual installation fails or you prefer an alternative method, you can download the Windows 8.1 update as an ISO file and install it on your computer. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official Windows 8.1 download page.
- Choose the edition of Windows 8.1 you want to download and click Confirm.
- Select your preferred language and click Confirm.
- Depending on your system architecture, select either the 64-bit or 32-bit download option.
- Download the ISO file to your computer.
- Use the downloaded ISO file to install Windows 8.1 Update.
- After the installation completes, restart your computer to apply the changes.
Action 4: Fix Windows File Corruption
If the previous actions didn’t resolve the issue, it’s possible that your Windows files are corrupted. To fix this, follow these steps:
Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. To do this, right-click on the Start button and select Command Prompt (Admin).
In the Command Prompt window, enter the following command and press Enter: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth.
Wait for the DISM scan to complete, and then run the following command: sfc /scannow.
After the System File Checker (SFC) scan finishes, close the Command Prompt and try running Windows Update again.
Action 5: Ensure Sufficient Disk Space
Insufficient disk space can hinder the Windows 8.1 update process. To ensure you have enough space:
Open File Explorer and go to This PC.
Check the remaining storage space on your drives in the Devices and drives section.
For a 32-bit OS, ensure you have at least 16 GB of free space, while a 64-bit OS requires 20 GB.
Delete unnecessary files, folders, and apps to free up space on your computer.
If you’re worried about accidentally deleting critical files, consider using a dedicated tool to safely free up space without risking data loss.
Can I Upgrade from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 for Free?
Yes, you can upgrade from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 for free. Follow these steps to perform the upgrade:
Visit the official Microsoft website.
Download the Windows 10 installation media creation tool.
Launch the program on your PC and accept the agreement.
Choose the Upgrade this PC now option and click Next.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
Click Install to begin the upgrade.
Please note that the free Windows 10 upgrade offer has ended for Windows 8. However, you can still use your Windows 8 product key to activate your Windows 10 copy.
Conclusion
Updating your Windows 8.1 is essential to ensure your computer’s security and enjoy the latest features. If you’re encountering issues with the update process, try the quick fixes outlined in this guide. By following these steps, you can resolve the Windows 8.1 update not working problem and enjoy a seamless update experience.
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