Repairing Windows 7 Update Service

Use the following steps to identify / repair issues preventing WIndows Update from successfully installing updates.

1. "Check for Updates" to verify that updates are failing
2. Run a short hardware diagnostic
3. Verify OS integrity by running "sfc /scannow" in an elevated command prompt
4. Run the System Update Readiness tool: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=20858
   1. Reboot
   2. "Check for Updates" rebooting as needed
   3. Stop here if updates are installed successfully
5. Rebuild SoftwareDistribution folder (https://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/windows/en-US/ce5289b9-f159-4a6f-ae57-fd885e664156/clearing-softwaredistribution-folder-for-updates?forum=win10itprogeneral)
   

   1. Run the following commands in an elevated command prompt

      Commands to rebuild the SoftwareDistribution folder

      1. net stop wuauserv

      2. ren c:\windows\SoftwareDistribution softwaredistribution.old

      3. net start wuauserv

      4. exit
   2. "Check for Updates" rebooting as needed
   3. Stop here if updates are installed successfully
6. If none of these steps work the CBS log file should be investigated. Please request assistance from [email protected] providing the DOE number and Hostname of the affected computer.