The error “Windows could not start the Windows Update service on the local computer” occurs when the operating system fails to start this crucial service, which can prevent updates from installing. This situation may be caused by incorrect permissions, dependent services not starting, or software conflicts.
To solve this problem, several solutions can be considered:
Ensure that the Windows Update service is configured with the correct permissions to run under the Local System account.
Steps:
Press Win + R, type ‘services.msc’, and press Enter.
Locate the Windows Update service in the list, right-click on it, and select Properties.
Go to the Log On tab and ensure that the service is configured to run under the Local System account.
Apply the changes and restart the service.
Ensure that all essential services for the proper functioning of Windows Update, such as BITS and Cryptography, are running.
Steps:
In the Services console (‘services.msc’), look for the following services: Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) and Cryptographic Services.
Ensure that these services are running. If not, right-click and select Start.
Restart your computer to see if the Windows Update service starts correctly.
Eliminate the possibility that third-party software is preventing the Windows Update service from starting.
Steps:
Press Win + R, type ‘msconfig’, and press Enter.
In the Services tab, check the box to Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Disable all non-essential startup programs.
Restart the computer and try to start the Windows Update service again.
Deleting the Datastore folder can resolve corruption issues preventing Windows Update from starting.
Steps:
Open File Explorer and navigate to the following path: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Datastore.
Select the Datastore folder and press Shift + Delete to permanently delete it.
If permission messages appear, click Continue to confirm.
Restart your computer.
Go back to the Services window (‘services.msc’), right-click on Windows Update, and select Start.
The Missing Windows Update Service on Windows 10 or 11
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