How to Fix Get the Newer Version of Windows to Stay Up to Date Error
This annoying error message is common for systems running older versions of Windows 10 or early Windows 11 builds. For instance, Windows 11 users with versions like 21H2 or even the latest 24H2 may see this message when Microsoft phases out older updates. Not upgrading can lead to security vulnerabilities and software compatibility issues. So what can you do about it? Here are the solutions.
How to Fix Get the Newer Version of Windows to Stay Up to Date Error
Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that might be able to fix this problem for you so go through the following steps. Just remember that once certain versions of Windows hit end of life it might be impossible to get rid of this error message.
- Type Troubleshoot in Windows search and press Enter.
- Select Additional Troubleshooters or Other troubleshooters.
- Locate Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
- Apply the recommended solutions.
Verify Windows Update Settings
Check to see if you are actually getting Windows updates.
- Type Updates in Windows search and press Enter.
- Check if updates are paused; if so, resume updates.
- Click Check for updates to manually initiate the process.
Free Up Disk Space
If you don't have enough storage space on your computer you might not be able to install the latest updates.
- Type Disk Cleanup in Windows search and press Enter.
- Select your C: drive (default) and click OK.
- Click Clean up system files, select C: drive again, and click OK.
- Mark large files like Temporary Files, Windows Update, Recycle Bin, and Delivery Optimization Files.
- Click OK to start the cleanup.
Reset Windows Update Components
Corrupted update components can prevent installations. Resetting them resolves such issues.
- Type cmd in Windows search.
- Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- In the Command Prompt, enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
Rename update folders by entering:
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
(If Windows is installed on another drive, replace "C" accordingly.)
Restart update services:
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
- Restart your PC.
Manually Install the Update
If updates fail automatically, manually downloading them can help.
- Type Update in Windows search and press Enter.
- Click View Update History.
- Note the KB number of the failed update.
- Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.
- Search for the KB number, download the matching version, and install it.
- Restart Windows after installation.
Perform an In-Place Upgrade
If all else fails, reinstalling Windows while keeping your files can resolve persistent update problems.
- Download the latest Windows installation media from Microsoft's official website.
- Run the installer and select Upgrade this PC now.
- Follow the on-screen instructions and agree to terms.
- Ensure Keep personal files and apps is selected.
- Click Install and wait for the process to complete.