How To Fix Windows 11 Update Stuck At 88 Steps

If you are experiencing issues with the Windows 11 update getting stuck at 88 steps, you are not alone. This can be a frustrating problem, but there are a few things you can try to resolve the issue.

Step 1: Wait it Out

Before trying any of the solutions below, it’s important to note that sometimes the update simply takes a long time to complete. It’s not uncommon for updates to take several hours to finish, so if you’ve only been waiting for a short time, give it some more time before trying other solutions.

Step 2: Restart Your Computer

If waiting doesn’t work, the first thing you should try is restarting your computer. This can often resolve issues with updates getting stuck. After restarting, try the update again and see if it completes.

Step 3: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

If restarting doesn’t work, try running the Windows Update Troubleshooter. This tool can often fix issues with updates getting stuck. To run the troubleshooter, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Windows Settings app.
2. Click on “Update & Security”.
3. Click on “Troubleshoot”.
4. Click on “Additional troubleshooters”.
5. Click on “Windows Update” and then click “Run the troubleshooter”.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooter.

Step 4: Reset Windows Update Components

If the troubleshooter doesn’t work, you can try resetting the Windows Update components. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open a Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type the following commands and press Enter after each one:
   • net stop bits
   • net stop wuauserv
   • net stop appidsvc
   • net stop cryptsvc
   • ren %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
   • ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 catroot2.old
   • net start bits
   • net start wuauserv
   • net start appidsvc
   • net start cryptsvc
3. Restart your computer and try the update again.

Step 5: Perform a Clean Boot

If none of the above solutions work, you can try performing a clean boot. This will start your computer with only the necessary services and drivers, which can help resolve issues with updates getting stuck. To perform a clean boot, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “msconfig” and press Enter.
3. Click on the “Services” tab and check the “Hide all Microsoft services” box.
4. Click on “Disable all”.
5. Click on the “Startup” tab and click “Open Task Manager”.
6. Disable all startup items by right-clicking on each one and selecting “Disable”.
7. Close Task Manager and click “OK” in the System Configuration window.
8. Restart your computer and try the update again.

Step 6: Contact Microsoft Support

If none of the above solutions work, you may need to contact Microsoft support for further assistance. They may be able to provide additional solutions or help you resolve the issue.

FAQs:

1. What causes the Windows 11 update to get stuck at 88 steps?

   There are several possible causes of this issue, including corrupted system files, outdated drivers, and issues with the Windows Update service.

2. How long should I wait before trying other solutions?

   If the update has been stuck at 88 steps for less than a few hours, it’s best to wait it out before trying other solutions. Sometimes updates can take a long time to complete.

3. Do I need to be an administrator to run the troubleshooter or reset Windows Update components?

   Yes, you need to be an administrator to run the troubleshooter or reset Windows Update components.

4. Will performing a clean boot delete any of my files or programs?

   No, performing a clean boot will not delete any of your files or programs. It simply starts your computer with only the necessary services and drivers.

5. How do I contact Microsoft support?

   You can contact Microsoft support by visiting their website and selecting the “Contact us” option. You can then choose to chat with a support agent, schedule a call, or request a callback.