PC Tries & Fails To Configure Windows Updates On Every Start Up

Paul Black · 24 Nov 2019

Hi woodbine,

Snick said:

You have issues from the botched install that those tools will not correct.

I agree with Snick!

If those tools don't correct the problem [worth trying them first though to rule out those options], then I think a Repair Install will be needed!

woodbine · 24 Nov 2019

Thanks again for your suggestions. Really appreciated. As you thought, the Check Disc didn't find anything.

Another thing I have noticed is something that crops up because I am leaving my pc on all the time due to start ups taking so long. I leave it in sleep when not used. The pc is in my bedroom and I find that it starts up on it's own in the early hours, tries again to configure the updates, fails and reverts. Don't know why it is switching itself out of sleep mode. Wonder if this is significant.

Before I go down the Repair Install road, I wonder if it is worth trying some steps on the Windows link below? Maybe installing updates in clean boot state, or using the Windows Update Troubleshooter?

https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/...ror-when-you-t

Also, this video describes exactly my problem. Would trying his remedy be worthwhile/safe?

YouTube

Paul Black · 24 Nov 2019

Hi woodbine,

woodbine said:

Also, this video describes exactly my problem. Would trying his remedy be worthwhile/safe? YouTube

Yes, that does work on occasions so it would be worth a try!
If things go wrong, you can always delete the newly created files and re-establish the .OLD.
It would be wise to create a System Restore Point FIRST!

I did have a batch script that performed what is included in the video but I can't find it at the moment!

I hope this helps!

Snick · 24 Nov 2019

CBS.log
CheckSUR.log
WindowsUpdate.log
errors? most likely.
Have to run System Update Readiness Tool or AutoSURT64 from my OneDrive for CheckSUR.log
Bill

here's a link Windows Update - Reset - Windows 7 Help Forums

woodbine · 26 Nov 2019

I tried the steps outlined in the video a couple of days ago, and so far no change or improvement. Also ran anti malware and only found the usual tracking cookies. I have just tried the Windows Update Troubleshooter. Too early to know if any improvement yet, as the log at the end said two items not fixed, but three fixed. I don't understand the significance of the results, so perhaps the experts can have a look at the image below.

woodbine · 26 Nov 2019

If I have to try any further remedies, eg. Startup Repair, is it recommended that I back up my files? If yes, what is the best way to do this? Would I need to get an external hard drive, or is there another way? Thanks for your help so far.

Snick · 26 Nov 2019

Your windows update is corrupt, Repair Install/In Place Upgrade, reinstalls Windows, keeps all your personal info, pictures, etc.
The entire drive is saved as C:\Windows.old
I always make a backup to external media, either a HDD, SSD, or last resort (USB of sufficient size)
Don't recommend using Microsoft's Backup or Restore, they fail when you need them!
I use AOMEI backupper which is also available as a 1 year trial giveaway now AOMEI Pro with key for free. Russian site, clean, download clean, install clean.

You need to have the Windows 7 activation key, 25-character, as you will be asked to re-enter it for activation, (it does not happen when you use Win10 to upgrade to it as it auto activates online)
If you have other Microsoft products installed that required you to enter a key, you have to have that key
I use Magical Jelly Bean for that purpose, if you use it, CD key is the Windows 7 25-character key, not product ID.
Watch this video Repair Install to Fix Windows 7 Without Reformatting by Britec
My help page
Repair Windows Without Reformatting
I have Win7 ISO if needed.

Bill

woodbine · 27 Nov 2019

Thanks again for your reply, Snick. Looks like the only option. I'll digest the info in your post and come back to you with some questions about it if I may.

SIW2 · 27 Nov 2019

@Snick

It is permanent. where did you get the one year idea?

torchwood · 27 Nov 2019

Hi

From the screenshot, the 2 not fixed items relate to back-end items, not the update itself.

try running KB947821 before the repair install- could take a while depending on what it finds

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/down....aspx?id=20858

reboot and check, then this if that doesnt work

a. Click “Start”, type “cmd”in the Start search box.
b. Right-click “cmd” and select “Run as administrator”.
c. On the open Command Prompt window copy and paste the commands (all at once) and press Enter.
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
pause
(Exit the command prompt)

reboot manually check for updates

Roy