How to Run Windows Update from Command Line (CMD & PowerShell)

Method 1: Using Command Prompt (CMD)

1. Open Command Prompt with Administrator Privileges

   • Press Windows + S, type cmd, and right-click Command Prompt.
   • Select Run as Administrator.

2. Check Windows Update Status

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   • Enter the following command:
     cmd

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     wuauclt /detectnow
   • This triggers Windows to check for updates.

3. Download and Install Updates

   • Use this command:
     cmd

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     wuauclt /updatenow
   • It forces Windows to start downloading and installing available updates.

4. Restart After Updates (Optional)

   • Restart your computer if updates require it:
     cmd

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     shutdown /r /t 0

Method 2: Using PowerShell

1. Open PowerShell with Administrator Privileges

   • Press Windows + S, type PowerShell, and right-click Windows PowerShell.
   • Select Run as Administrator.

2. Install PowerShell Windows Update Module

   • If not already installed, run:
     powershell

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     Install-Module PSWindowsUpdate -Force

3. Import the Windows Update Module

   • Enter the following command:
     powershell

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     Import-Module PSWindowsUpdate

4. Check for Updates

   • Use the command:
     powershell

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     Get-WindowsUpdate

5. Install Updates

   • Run this command to install updates:
     powershell

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     Install-WindowsUpdate -AcceptAll -AutoReboot
   • The -AcceptAll parameter accepts all updates, and -AutoReboot reboots your system if needed.