Windows Update can sometimes stop working, which is a serious problem for updates. Here’s how to reactivate it.
Unlike Windows 10, the Home version of Windows 7 gives more control over automatic updates. Updates can only be downloaded when desired, which is quite handy if you need all of the network bandwidth. But, without warning, Windows Update may no longer work properly. When checking for system updates, we get a message indicating that the service is not running:
Do not panic, it is possible to regain control very easily. For that :
- Type Windows Update in the search box near the Start button and click the name in the list of results. Click on Modify the parameters in the left column. Uncheck all the boxes. In the section Important updates, select Never check for updates from the drop-down list. Click on the button OK to validate.
- Restart the computer.
- Go to Windows Update settings again to change them, as before. In the section Important updates, select Check for updates but let me choose whether to download and install them from the drop-down list. Below, check the boxes that interest you, for example to also receive recommended updates or updates for other Microsoft products. Click on the button OK to validate.
Windows Update then automatically starts checking for updates. If the problem persists, it is also possible to download a Windows Update repair wizard available on the Microsoft website.