How To Manually Update Windows 11/10 (Quick Guide)

Home » How-To

Edgar Nicov

How-To

4 min. read

Published on September 18, 2025

Fix Windows errors with Fortect:
Fortect can repair common computer errors by scanning your entire system for damaged or missing OS files and replacing them with the original, working versions. Optimize your PC in 3 simple steps:

Download and Install Fortect on your PC
Use the PC Scan feature to look up any Windows issues (including drivers)
Right-click on Repair, and fix it within a few minutes.

Besides that, it helps you clean up junk files, fix stability problems, and get rid of annoying programs and malware traces.

Keeping your Windows 11 or 10 operating system up-to-date is crucial for security and performance. Regular updates deliver vital security patches, bug fixes, and performance improvements. While Windows Update automatically handles most updates, understanding how to manually check for and install updates provides greater control and allows you to address issues proactively. This guide provides a step-by-step process for manually updating your Windows system. Ignoring updates can leave your system vulnerable to malware and hinder its overall functionality.

How Can I Manually Update My Windows 11/10?

Checking for Updates

Open Settings: Click the Start button (the Windows logo in the bottom-left corner of your screen) and select the "Settings" gear icon.
Navigate to Windows Update: In the Settings app, click on "Windows Update."
Check for Updates: Click the "Check for updates" button. Windows will search for available updates. This process may take a few minutes depending on your internet connection speed and the number of updates available.
Install Updates: Once the scan is complete, Windows will display a list of available updates. Review the list and select the updates you want to install. Click "Download and install" to begin the installation process. You may need to restart your computer to complete the installation.

Downloading and Installing Specific Updates (Optional)

If you know the specific KB number (Knowledge Base article number) of an update you need, you can download it directly from the Microsoft Update Catalog. This method is useful for troubleshooting or installing updates not automatically offered through Windows Update.

Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog: Open your web browser and navigate to the Microsoft Update Catalog website.
Search for the Update: Enter the KB number of the update you’re looking for in the search bar and press Enter.
Download the Update: Locate the appropriate update for your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) and click the "Download" button.
Run the Installer: Once the download is complete, run the installer file. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the update. A restart may be required.

Tips for Successful Updates

Stable Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection throughout the update process. Interruptions can cause problems.
Sufficient Disk Space: Make sure you have enough free disk space on your system drive before initiating an update. Windows will notify you if there’s insufficient space.
Backup Important Data: While rare, issues can occur during updates. It’s always a good idea to back up important files before installing major updates.
Restart Your Computer: After installing updates, restart your computer to ensure all changes take effect.

Comparing Manual vs. Automatic Updates

Method	Advantages	Disadvantages
Automatic Updates	Convenient, always up-to-date	Can be disruptive, may install unwanted updates
Manual Updates	More control, allows for selective updates	Requires more user intervention

This table highlights the key differences between automatic and manual update methods. Choosing the best method depends on your preferences and technical expertise.

Keeping Your System Secure

Regularly updating your Windows system is essential for maintaining its security and performance. By following these steps, you can ensure your system remains protected from vulnerabilities and runs smoothly. Remember to always check for updates regularly, whether manually or through the automatic update service.

FAQs

What happens if I don’t update Windows?

Failing to update Windows leaves your system vulnerable to security risks, including malware and exploits. You may also miss out on performance improvements and new features.

How long does a Windows update take?

The time it takes to install a Windows update varies depending on the size of the update, your internet connection speed, and your computer’s hardware. Smaller updates may take only a few minutes, while larger updates could take an hour or more.

Can I pause Windows updates?

Yes, you can temporarily pause Windows updates for a limited time through the Windows Update settings. However, it’s recommended to keep your system updated regularly for security and performance reasons.

What should I do if a Windows update fails?

If a Windows update fails, try restarting your computer and checking for updates again. You can also search online for solutions specific to the error message you receive. Microsoft’s support website is a good resource.