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Delete Failed Windows Updates Manually With These 2 Methods

Everything you need to eliminate incomplete downloads on your PC

2 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

Windows updates are essential for the smooth running of your PC. However, this process is not usually smooth and might require you to delete a failed Windows update before going over it again.

This is important to prevent update errors and other issues whileinstalling the latest patches. In this guide, we have prepared the best ways to remove any incomplete update from your PC.

How do I delete downloaded failed and pending Windows Updates?

How do I delete downloaded failed and pending Windows Updates?

Below are a couple of ways to delete failed update history in Windows 10:

How do I delete failed Windows updates?

How do I delete failed Windows updates?

1. Delete everything from the sub-folder

The built-in method of deleting a failed update is through File Explorer. This method is pretty straightforward and requires no technical skills.

2. Use a dedicated tool

While you can permanently delete a failed Windows update from File Explorer, there might be some leftover junk files on your PC.

To get rid of these files, you need to use a dedicated PC cleaner in CCleaner. This easy-to-use tool digs deep into your system and eliminates all unwanted files.

This makes it easy to remove any incomplete updates and other junk files. With this, you can free up valuable space on your PC.

⇒Get CCleaner

With this, we can conclude this guide on how to delete a failed Windows update. All you need now is to follow the steps, and you should be able to download and install updates smoothly.

If you want to knowhow to clear the Windows update cache, check our detailed guide to do it quickly.

Feel free to let us know if you encounter any problems following the steps above.

More about the topics:windows updates

Ivan Jenic

Windows Hardware Expert

Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.

When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.

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Ivan Jenic

Windows Hardware Expert

Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.