Top 11 Ways to Fix Windows Upgrade Stuck at 30 Percent

Microsoft is on a roll with Windows 11 updates. The software giant frequently releases new OS builds to add features, security patches, and bug fixes. However, the Windows update process isn’t smooth for everyone. Sometimes, the Windows upgrade process gets stuck at 30%, 80%, or another specific percentage for hours at end. Here are the best ways to fix Windows upgrade stuck at 30 percent.

Table of Contents

1. Restart and Try Again

It’s one of the effective ways to troubleshoot normal Windows glitches. you’re able to restart your Windows PC and try updating the OS again.

1.Press theWindows keyand select thePowerbutton.

2.HitRestart.

2. Delete Windows Update Cache

When the Windows update database gets corrupted with bogus files, the Windows upgrade gets stuck at 30 percent. You need to delete the Windows update cache and try again.

1.PressWindows + Ekeys to open the File Explorer menu.

2.Head toC: > Windows > Software Distribution.

3.OpenDataStore.

4.Delete all files and folders from DataStore.

5.Go back toSoftware Distribution. OpenDownload.

6.Select all folders and delete them.

Restart your PC (check the steps above) and try updating your PC again.

restart Windows PC

3. Install Optional Updates First

You can first install optional updates on your PC and update it without any issues.

1.PressWindows + Ikeys to openSettings.

2.SelectWindows Updateand openAdvanced options.

3.SelectOptional updateand install them from the following menu.

4. Run Disc Cleanup

You can run disc cleanup on your computer to fix the Windows upgrade stuck at 30 percent.

1.Press theWindows keyand search forDisk Cleanup.

2.HitEnterand selectCdrive.

3.HitOKand select program files, temporary internet files, and more from the following menu. ClickOK.

5. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Microsoft offers a built-in troubleshooter tool to fix Windows upgrades stuck at 30 percent issues.

1.Launch Windows Settings by pressing theWindows + Ikeys and go toSystem.

software distribution in file explorer on Windows

2.Select Troubleshoot and openOther Troubleshooters.

3.Run theWindows Updatetroubleshooter from the following menu and follow the on-screen instructions.

select data store on Windows

If you face any issues with running Windows troubleshooter, read ourdedicated guide to fix the problem.

6. Check for Corrupt Files

Corrupt and malicious files on your Windows PC may interfere with the system upgrade process. You can use the Windows Security app to find and remove such bogus files.

1.Press theWindowskey and search forWindows Security.

remove data store files on Windows

2.SelectVirus & threat protectionfrom the sidebar and run aQuick scan.

3.You can selectScan optionsand run afull PC scantoo.

During the scan process, you can minimize the Windows Security app and continue with your work.

7. Free Up RAM

Windows upgrade may get stuck at 30 percent due to insufficient RAM. You need to close unnecessary apps and services to free up RAM.

1.Right-click onWindows keyand openTask Manager.

2.Check memory consumption. Select irrelevant processes and hitEnd task.

Once you have sufficient RAM on your computer, open the Windows Update menu in Settings and install the latest build without any issues.

remove download files on Windows

8. Check Storage

If you have less space on your Windows PC, you may run into issues with the Windows upgrade process. Thankfully, Microsoft has packed the Storage Sense tool to free up space with a single click.

1.Head to WindowsSettings > System > Storagemenu.

2.UseCleanup recommendationsand delete temporary files from the same menu.

9. Use Safe Mode

Running Windows in safe mode loads the system in memory with basic and required programs only. You can run Windows in safe mode and fix upgrade stuck at 30 percent.

1.PressWindows + Rkeys to open Run. Typemsconfigand hitOK.

2.Move toBoottab.

3.EnableSafe boot. ClickApplyand hitOK.

Restart your PC and try again.

10. Reset Windows

If none of the tricks are working, reset Windows and fix the Windows upgrade stuck at 30 percent.

1.Head toSysteminWindows Settingsand selectRecovery.

2.SelectReset PCand clickKeep my files.

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.

11. Update BIOS

BIOS means Basic Input Output System, and updating it should be the last resort to fix Windows upgrade stuck at 80% or another percentage. You need to visit the PC OEM’s website and download the latest version of BIOS.

Note:Updating BIOS on your computer is a complex process. If you make a mistake during the process, it may damage your computer.

Enjoy the Latest Windows 11 Updates

Running your personal or work computer on an outdated Windows build is never a good idea. However, the entire Windows update isn’t exactly smooth either. The steps above will troubleshoot the Windows upgrade stuck at 30 percent issue without breaking a sweat.

You can also join the Windows Insider Program to test unreleased builds before the public release. Read our dedicated post tolearn all about Windows 11 Inside Program.

Parth Shah

Parth previously worked at EOTO.tech covering tech news. He is currently freelancing at TechWiser, Android Police, and GuidingTech writing about apps comparisons, tutorials, software tips and tricks, and diving deep into iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows platforms.

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