3 Fixes: Windows Update Not Working on Windows Server 2016

User Case: How Do I Enable Windows Update Server 2016?

If you are also experiencing the Windows Update Not Working on Windows Server 2016 issue and you have tried reconnecting to the network or rebooting and found that it still doesn't solve the problem, then you have really come to the right place!

This article will provide you with some professional and effective 3 ways to help you solve this problem! Let's take a look below!

How to Fix Windows Update Not Working on Windows Server 2016

In this section, we will provide you with several effective ways to fix Windows Update Not Working on Windows Server 2016 issue, so keep scrolling down.

Note: Please remember to back up your Windows Server 2016 before making any changes to your computer to avoid data loss due to various accidents.

Fix 1. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Run the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter to automatically detect and fix Windows Server 2016 update not working issues.

Step 1. You can find this tool in the Settings menu under Update & Security> Troubleshoot> Windows Update.

Step 2. Next, press the Run the troubleshoot button to initiate the troubleshooting process.

Wait for the troubleshooting process to complete. It will furnish essential information about the problem and attempt to resolve it. If the Windows update troubleshooter proves ineffective and fails to address the issue, proceed to the next method.

Fix 2. Manually Download and Install Updates

Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog (https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Home.aspx) to manually download and install the latest updates. This can be helpful if Windows Server 2016 Windows Update not working correctly.

Fix 3. Reset Windows Update Components

Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the following commands one by one to solve Server 2016 Windows Update not working:

net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver

This sequence stops related services, renames folders, and restarts services to reset Windows Update components.

In addition to the above three methods, of course, you can also check if you have enough disk space for download and installation. And temporarily disable your firewall and anti-virus software and check if Windows Update not working on Windows Server 2016 is solved.

Sometimes, security software can interfere with the update process. And, of course, always make sure to back up your Windows Server 2016 before making major changes to your system. So next I'll show you how to backup your Windows Server 2016. Read on!

Backup Your Windows Server 2016 to Protect Your Data

In the realm of securing user data, AOMEI Backupper stands out as a comprehensive backup and restore software, armed with robust options. To steer clear of nightmares or error codes, preemptive file backups are a smart move. Tailored for Windows Server users, the Server version ensures data safety with proper backups.

Key features include:

▶ Backup flexibility for files, folders, disks, partitions - the whole shebang.
▶ Effort-saving schedule backup with options like daily/weekly/monthly/event triggers and USB Plug in.
▶ Versatile backup methods, offering full copies or incremental/differential backups.
▶ Beyond backup, it delivers potent cloning, syncing tools, and the ability to restore domain controllers from Windows Server backups.

Grab AOMEI Backupper Server, and give it a spin! For a detailed system backup tutorial, dive in or pick the backup types you fancy.

Step 1. In the left panel, opt for Backup, then proceed to select System Backup.

Step 2. The necessary system partition is automatically selected by default. Simply designate the destination path for storing the backup files.

Step 3. If you wish to establish a personalized backup schedule, click on Schedule Backup at the bottom. Enable the Schedule Backup feature to automate file backups on a daily, weekly, monthly, or event triggers basis, as well as through USB plugin mode.

Note: In the second option located in the left panel, select Backup Scheme. Here, you can configure the backup method and activate automatic backup cleanup to optimize storage space.

Step 4. Validate your selections and initiate the backup process by clicking on Start Backup.

Summary

You can effectively address the issue of Windows Server 2016 Windows Update not working by employing the three methods mentioned above. However, it is highly advisable to proactively back up your essential files to prevent any potential data loss.

AOMEI Backupper stands out as a leading software in the realm of data protection, featuring a user-friendly interface and convenient settings. It offers comprehensive backup plans to navigate through unexpected scenarios, such as troubleshooting Windows 11 22H2 blue screen issues.