update to 10

evelyn bush 0 Reputation points
2026-09-23T16:37:48.49+00:00

tried to update to windows 10, updatw failed and I need to know why

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Install and upgrade

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  1. EmilyS_726 30,355 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2026-09-24T01:33:20.4333333+00:00

    Hello

    Microsoft officially closed the Windows 7/8 to 10 upgrade path. It is no longer possible.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-09-23T16:38:02.7366667+00:00

    Windows Update can fail for several common reasons shown in the error details:

    1. Corrupted or missing update/system files
      • Examples in the documented error list include 0x80073712, 0x80073701, and 0x800f0988.
      • These are associated with damaged or missing files needed by Windows Update.
    2. Not enough free disk space
      • Windows needs at least 16 GB free for a 32-bit OS or 20 GB for a 64-bit OS to upgrade.
      • Low storage can block the update.
    3. Windows Update components are stuck or corrupted
      • The SoftwareDistribution or Catroot2 update cache can cause repeated failures.
    4. Background apps, antivirus, or drivers interfering
      • Third-party security software or incompatible drivers can stop the upgrade.
      • A clean boot can help identify this.
    5. The update is not applicable or prerequisites are missing
      • Some updates require earlier important updates to already be installed.

    To find out why on the PC, use this order:

    1. Go to Start > Settings > Windows Update and try Check for updates again.
    2. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter:
      • Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run
    3. Check free space on the system drive.
    4. Repair system files from an elevated Command Prompt:
      • DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
      • then sfc /scannow
    5. If updates still fail, reset the update cache from an elevated Command Prompt:
      • net stop bits
      • net stop wuauserv
      • ren %systemroot%\softwaredistribution softwaredistribution.bak
      • ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 catroot2.bak
      • net start bits
      • net start wuauserv
      • Restart the PC.

    If the failure happens during a full Windows 10 upgrade rather than a monthly update, Microsoft also recommends using SetupDiag to identify the upgrade failure cause.

    Note: renaming update folders and repairing system files are generally safe, but a clean installation can remove apps and data if chosen instead of repair or in-place upgrade.

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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