In the realm of technology, updates are often heralded as gateways to enhanced performance and security. However, there are instances when these updates can lead to unexpected complications. A recent case in point is the Windows update KB5043145, which left some users grappling with the notorious blue screen of death instead of the anticipated improvements. In such scenarios, the ability to roll back updates becomes not just a convenience, but a necessity.
Before resetting: First go through this checklist
Before diving into the rollback process, it’s prudent to conduct a preliminary checklist to rule out basic issues that may be causing the update failures:
- Ensure there is adequate space on the system hard drive for updates.
- Restart the system to see if updates can be installed correctly afterward.
- Attempt to run the Windows update again if necessary.
- Disconnect any external hardware that is not essential for operation.
- Examine the Device Manager for any reported conflicts or errors.
- Verify that no antivirus or malware scanners are interfering with the update process; these may need to be temporarily uninstalled.
- Check if the Windows Update service is activated by entering services.msc in the Start menu. Locate “Windows Update” and ensure its startup type is set to “manual.”
If these steps do not yield success, various methods exist to reset or repair Windows updates.
Utilizing Windows Troubleshooting Tools
Microsoft acknowledges that its updates can sometimes disrupt the operating system’s functionality. To assist users, modern Windows versions include built-in tools designed to address update issues.
For Windows 11 users, navigate to “Other troubleshooters” via Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot. Here, you will find the option to run the Windows Update troubleshooter, which can help identify and resolve issues. A system restart is typically recommended afterward.
Windows 10 users can access troubleshooting through Start > Settings > Update & Security. By searching for “troubleshooting” and selecting the relevant entry, you can find “Additional troubleshooting” at the bottom. Clicking on “Windows Update” will reveal the option to run the troubleshooter, which will analyze and correct any detected errors.
Option 2: Use the System Restore Point
Windows routinely creates restore points, which can be invaluable for reverting the system to a previous state without losing data or settings. To activate a restore point:
- Open the Start menu and type restore point. Click on “Create restore point” from the results.
- In the “System protection” tab, select “System Restore…”
- Click “Next” in the following window.
- Choose the desired restore point from the list provided. You can use the “Search for affected programs” feature to see which components will be impacted.
- Confirm your selection and click “Next” followed by “Finish.” You may need to acknowledge a security prompt. The system will then revert to the selected restore point and restart.
Option 3: Reset Windows Update Components
For more persistent issues, the free “Reset Windows Update Tool” can be a lifesaver. This open-source program allows users to repair Windows update components effectively. After downloading the tool:
- Extract the tool to a chosen folder.
- Run “wureset.exe” with administrative privileges.
- Select your preferred language.
- Choose “Restore Windows Update Components” (usually option “2”) and press ENTER.
- Wait for the process to complete, which may take several minutes, after which updates should function correctly again.
Option 4: Install Updates Manually
When automatic updates fail, manually downloading and installing updates can be a viable alternative. To do this:
- Identify the update’s identifier (KB number) either from the Windows Update section or the update history.
- Visit the Microsoft update catalog and input the KB identifier in the search bar.
- Download the relevant update and initiate the installation from your download folder.
Option 5: Manually Reset and Restart Update Services
Another approach involves using the command prompt to stop and restart update services. This method can help if the system struggles with updates:
- Open the Start menu and type cmd.
- Right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator.”
- Enter the following commands one by one:
net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
Dism.exe /online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup
sfc /scannow
net start bits
net start wuauserv
This sequence will reset the BITS and Wuauserv services, allowing you to attempt the problematic update once more.
If Nothing Helps: Reinstall the System
As a last resort, if all other methods fail, consider reinstalling Windows. This step should only be taken when absolutely necessary, as it may result in the loss of settings and data. It is advisable to wait for a fix from Microsoft if the system remains operational but problematic after an update.
This article has been adapted from content originally published in PC-WELT, translated and localized for a broader audience.
<h3 class="articleauthorhead”>Author: Steffen Zellfelder, Contributor
Steffen Zellfelder is a freelance journalist based in Bonn, with a keen interest in software, apps, and emerging trends in technology.
