Laptop refuses to install updates / can’t do a reset where I can keep files

Title: Troubleshooting Windows 11 Update and Reset Issues on Your Laptop

Are you experiencing difficulties installing Windows 11 updates or performing system resets while retaining your files? This is a common problem faced by many users and can be caused by various underlying issues. In this guide, we’ll explore potential causes and provide effective solutions to help you restore normal functionality to your device.

Understanding the Issue
If your laptop can install security updates but struggles with regular system updates, potential causes might include corrupted update files, system glitches, or conflicts stemming from third-party software or downloads. Additionally, being unable to perform a reset while keeping your files suggests underlying system errors that prevent Windows from reinstalling components properly.

Common Challenges Faced:
– Inability to install non-security Windows updates
– Failure to reset Windows without deleting personal files
– Past interactions with Microsoft support without resolution
– Possible influence of previous downloads or software (e.g., video download tools)

Steps to Resolve the Issue

1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
   Windows offers built-in troubleshooters that automatically detect and fix common update problems.
2. Navigate to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters
3. Select “Windows Update” and click “Run”

4. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your PC

5. Manually Reset Windows Update Components
   Core update files might be corrupted. Resetting the Windows Update components can resolve this.

6. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
7. Execute the following commands one by one:
   net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
net stop cryptsvc
net stop msiserver
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start bits
net start cryptsvc
net start msiserver

8. Restart your laptop and check for updates again

9. Use the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)
   These tools scan and repair corrupted system files.

10. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
11. Run:
    sfc /scannow
    Wait for the process to complete
12. Follow with:
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

13. Restart your PC afterward

14. Attempt a Reset with Keep My Files
    If the reset option isn’t functioning as intended, you might try