Fix: ‘Windows Update Service missing’ issue in Windows 11/10

Through Windows Update, Microsoft not only addresses a large number of software bugs but also upgrades and improves their products. If this is the case, then your personal computer is going to have a lot of problems. The Windows Update Service, also known as wuauserv, is in charge of managing the Windows update feature, which is responsible for the detection and installation of necessary updates on the local computer. This article will show you how to Fix ‘Windows Update Service missing’ issue in Windows 11/10.

If this service is not running, Windows will not be able to check for new updates and will instead display the error “Error Encountered while checking for updates.” In addition to this, the Windows Updates service will not be found in the list of available services anywhere. But try not to freak out. We have provided you with the solutions that are currently operational to repair the Windows update service on your personal computer.

Causes: ‘Windows Update Service missing’ issue in Windows 11/10

• Malware or virus infection. Malware and viruses can damage or disable Windows system files, including the files needed for the Windows Update service to function properly.
• Corrupted system files. Corrupted system files can also cause the Windows Update service to malfunction. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as a power outage, a software conflict, or a hardware failure.
• Incorrect registry settings. The Windows Update service is configured using registry settings. If these settings are incorrect, it can prevent the service from starting or running properly.

• Third-party software conflicts. Some third-party software, such as antivirus software and firewalls, can interfere with the Windows Update service.
• Hardware failure. In rare cases, hardware failure, such as a faulty hard drive or memory, can also cause the Windows Update service to stop working.

Fix: ‘Windows Update Service missing’ issue in Windows 11/10

Clear Windows SoftwareDistribution Folder

1. To open the command box, press the Windows key and the letter R on your keyboard.
2. Type services.msc and press the OK button.
3. Right-click on Windows Update and choose Stop from the menu.
4. Open Windows Explorer and go to the C:Windows folder.
5. Find the Software Distribution folder and then get rid of it.
6. Go back to the Control Panel, right-click on the Windows Update service, and then press the Start key.
7. Turn your computer back on.

Run Update Troubleshooter

1. Type troubleshoot into the Windows Search box and click on the Troubleshooting option.
2. Click Fix issues with Windows Update, and then click Next.
3. Try running the service again after restarting your computer to see if the problem has been fixed.

Scan for Malware

1. Open the search menu, type “Windows Security” in the box, and choose the first result that comes up.
2. Switch to the Virus & threat protection tab in the Windows Security app.
3. Select Scan options from the list of Current Threats.
4. On the next screen, choose the option “Full scan.”
5. Click the button that says “Scan now.”

Factory Reset Windows

1. To open the Settings app, press Win + I.
2. Choose System > Recovery from the menu.
3. To start the reset process, click the Reset PC button.
4. Choose Keep my files in the “Reset this PC” wizard if you want to keep your own files. If not, choose Remove everything.

Restart Windows Update Service

1. To open the Run box, press Win + R.
2. Press Enter after typing “services.msc” to open the Services window.
3. Look for the “Windows Update” service by scrolling down.
4. Right-click on it and choose “Start” to start the service back up again.
5. Check to see if Windows Update works now.

Conclusion

If the Windows Update service is missing, you can fix missing or broken system files by running DISM and SFC. Then, bring in the Update Service from a computer that doesn’t have the same problem. Also, check your computer for malware. If the problem keeps happening, restart your PC.

FAQs