How to Use the Reset Windows Update Tool
Multifaceted third-party utility that everyone needs
Updating a Windows computer isn’t all roses. While someWindows update glitchesare quite easy to fix, others can be challenging. Interestingly, there are third-party troubleshooting programs that can fix almost all Windows Update problems.
The “Reset Windows Update Tool” is one example. In this tutorial, we’ll review the tool, focusing on its capabilities, installation procedure, features, and use cases.
What Does the Reset Windows Update Tool Do?
The Reset Windows Update Tool (RWUT) is a multifaceted utility that not only resolves potential issues affecting Windows updates, but also helps to repair corrupt system files, replace missing registry keys,force Group Policy update, resolve problems with the Microsoft Store, and much more.
Fundamentally, the RWUT consolidates all potential fixes for Windows update issues and other associated problems in one interface. It grants users direct access to hidden system tools like the System File Checker,Check Disk Utility, Windows Component Store, etc.
The tool has no graphical interface but it is super easy to use and compatible with devices running Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, and Windows 11.
Installing the Reset Windows Update Tool
Head to the developer’s website in your browser and download the tool’s setup file. Ensure you download the version that suits your PC’s processor type—32-bit or 64-bit. The website is able to automatically detect your processor type and recommends the file that’ll work best for your device. Nonetheless, you should still confirm that the “Recommended Download” corresponds with your processor type.
If you’re unsure of your PC’s processor type, refer to our comprehensive tutorial that detailsdifferent ways to tell if you’re using a 32-Bit or 64-Bitcomputer.
From experience, some browsers like Microsoft Edge may block the file download because the app is unrecognized and “could harm your device.” That’s Microsoft Edge’s“SmartScreen” security toolbeing overprotective. The file is safe and you have nothing to worry about. To bypass the SmartScreen restriction, select thethree-dot menu iconnext to the setup file and selectKeep. That’ll unblock the file and download it to your PC.
Run the setup file and follow the prompts to install the RWUT on your PC. The instruction on the installation page recommends closing all Windows apps and other third-party programs before running the setup.
Close the setup window when you get a success message. Afterward, launch the Reset Windows Update Tool to explore its feature or use it to fix system problems.
How To Use the Reset Windows Update Tool
To use the Reset Windows Update Tool to make changes to your PC settings and files, you must run the program as an administrator. So, right-click the app shortcut on your desktop and selectRun as administrator.
You’ll be prompted to select your preferred language when you open the program for the first time. You can always change the language and other customizations like font color in the app’s settings menu.
TypeYin the “Do you want to continue with this process?” row and pressEnterto continue.
Before you run any command, go through the next section to have an idea of what each option does and the changes they make to your computer.
Reset Windows Update Tool: Features & Use Cases
Here’s a cursory highlight of some troubleshooting operations you can run with this tool.
This is a shortcut to Windows System Protection—a Windows section where you can create restore points, configure restore settings, and manage disk space.
Type1in the terminal and pressEnter. That’ll immediately open the Windows System Protection window.
What this option does is fix issues preventing your PC from updating Windows. If, for instance, Windows takes forever to check for new updates, or your PC won’t install new Windows updates, running the command in the RWUT can resolve the problems.
All you need to do is type2(or the corresponding digit next to the “Reset the Windows Update Components” option) and pressEnter.
The tool will reset your PC’s Windows Update component by restarting the Windows Update services, Application Identity service, Cryptographic Services,Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), and other services that help your PC install Windows updates. The operation will also delete old software distribution copies and replace corrupt or missing files needed to update your computer.
Press any key on your keyboard and try updating your PC again.
Windows creates different types oftemporary files(caches system files, application data, error reports and feedbacks, internet files, etc.) as you use your PC. These files can take up a huge chunk of storage, hence deleting them regularly is a good way tofree up disk space in Windows.
Quick Tip:Go toSettings>System>Storage>Temporary filesto view how much storage space temporary files consume on your PC.
Deleting temporary files with the RWUT is as easy as typing3(or whatever digit corresponds to theDelete the temporary files in Windowsoption) in the terminal and pressingEnter.
The tool also provides a shortcut to access the “Internet Properties” menu in Windows devices. Type4in the terminal and pressEnter.
That’ll open the Internet Properties window where you can manage VPN and proxy connections, pop-up blocker, browser add-ons, and other information like browsing history, cookies, passwords, web form info, etc.
The Check Disk Utility (chkdsk) is a built-in system tool that fixes damaged system files, faulty sectors on the hard disk, and other issues preventing the installation of Windows updates. You can run the Check Disk utility from the RWUT instead of having to type lengthy commands in the Command Prompt.
On the app dashboard, type5(or the digit that corresponds to Runs Chkdsk on the Windows partition) and pressEnter.
The System File Checker (SFC) is another built-in Windows tool that scans for system file corruption and repairs/replaces missing or damaged system files. You can also run the System File Checker from the RWUT instead of having to run multiple commands in Command Prompt.
Type6in the app terminal, pressEnterand follow the recommendations on the results page.
You might need to reboot your computer to complete or execute pending system repairs.
The “Component Store” houses the files and functions required to customize and update Windows. Problems with files in the Component Store can cause Windows update issues. The RWUT can fix Component Store corruption at the push of a button.
Type7in the “Select an option” row and pressEnter.
Are youunable to download apps from the Microsoft Store? Or, you can’t access the app store because yourcomputer won’t open Microsoft Store app? Resetting the Microsoft Store via the RWUT can fix the problem.
Launch the tool, type13(or whatever digit corresponds toReset Microsoft Windows Store), and pressEnter.
The command will clear the Microsoft Store’s cache and fix any underlying problems. The Microsoft Store app will open when the reset operation is successful.
Finding your PC’s product keyhas never been easier. You don’t need to check your PC’s retail box, instruction manual, or your Microsoft account’s order history. Launch the RWUT, type16in the terminal or dashboard, and pressEnter. Your PC’s product key will appear on the screen instantly.
The All-Round Tool
The features of the Reset Windows Update Tool aren’t limited to what we listed above. There are more shortcuts, options, and operations that the program can execute. The “Explore location solutions” option, for instance, will redirect you to the Windows Troubleshooting menu where you can access tools that’ll diagnose and fix network issues, connectivity-related problems, etc.
The RWUT can alsofix broken registry items, restart your computer, and perform repair operations automatically. Explore the tool and experience its goodness.
Sodiq has written thousands of tutorials, guides, and explainers over the past 4 years to help people solve problems with Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows devices. He also enjoys reviewing consumer tech products (smartphones, smart home devices, accessories, etc.) and binge-watching comedy series in his spare time.Read Sodiq’s Full Bio
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