How To Fix A Failed Microsoft Defender Update?
Introduction
New updates come up for software and operating systems consistently, at least under Microsoft. However, the Microsoft Defender update failure can make it difficult to apply improvements. Multiple reasons block the updating process for Windows Defender in devices running on Windows 10 or 11.
These include problems like corrupted Windows Update components, partial damage to the software update of Windows Defender, and corruption in the dependencies for Windows Update.
Depending on the cause of the error, there are several steps you can take to rectify the problem. You can utilize Systweak Software Updater to instantly upgrade your Windows Defender software update issues or follow the given solutions. Learn each variation first.
Solution 1: Activate the Windows Update Troubleshooter
One of the easiest and fast solutions for the Microsoft Defender update failure issue is working with the respective troubleshooter setting on Windows. This feature can fix specific software issues in the system, including problems interfering with Windows Updates.
How to do this?
Step 1: On your keyboard, tap on the Windows and I keys simultaneously. This will open the Settings window on your PC. Alternatively, you can click on the Search menu and search for Settings via the search bar- click on the App that appears in the options.
Step 2: At the left-vertical menu, click on the System option.
Step 3: Then tap on the Troubleshoot button in the right pane.
Step 4: Choose the “Other Troubleshooters” option and tap on the Run button beside the Windows Update option from this list. ‘
Step 5: The Windows Update troubleshooter will start scanning the system for any issues with the components in Windows Update. After the results come, tap on the “Apply this fix” button. Continue with the following instructions that come up and repair the issue.
Step 6: Finally, restart the device. Then, try to update the Windows Defender solution and see if Windows 11 can run the process.
Solution 2: Use Windows Update to upgrade the Windows Defender
In case you see the Windows Defender won’t update prompt, one of the possible reasons is due to connectivity problems. At this point, you can work with Windows Update software on the device to upgrade the features on Windows 11.
How to do this?
Step 1: Go to the Search menu and type in Settings. Click on it to access it.
Step 2: In the Settings menu, tap on the Update & Security choice.
Step 3: Choose and click on Windows Update from the left-hand pane.
Step 4: Next, tap the Check for Updates button in the right panel. This will prompt the device to analyze all available software updates.
If there are recent updates available for Windows Defender, they will download automatically into the system. Then, they will start installing. Check if the failure issue occurs again after this installation is successful.
Solution 3: Set the Service of Windows Defender as Automatic
Another fix for the failure of the Microsoft Defender technology update is to set it up as automatic. This process will work on Windows 10, with specific steps.
How to do this?
Step 1: On the Start menu on your homepage, right-click on it and tap the Run option.
Step 2: In the next dialog box that appears, type in the term “services.msc” and press the OK button.
Step 3: The Services window will open. In this window, search for Windows Defender Antivirus Service. Right-click on it and choose the Properties option.
Step 4: Check that the Service Status section shows the “Running” status. If not, change it to this.
Step 5: Under the Startup Type section, check that it is set to Automatic. If this is unavailable, choose the Automatic option under Startup Type and tap the Start button.
Step 6: Finally, click on the Apple button and press OK. Then, running the DISM and SFC scans on your device would be best.
On the results, you should see what the differences come up between DISM, SFC, and CHKSK and follow the instructions that come up. This way, you can check if there are corruption issues that are causing the Microsoft Defender update failure.
Step 7: You should verify if the issue is resolved on your system.
Solution 4: Manually Download the Updates for Windows Defender
Sometimes, users notice the failure in the upgrade since it is set as automatically already, and that is not operating as it should. In that case, you have to download each update from the Catalog manually, which can fix the issue. However, this issue can be rectified on Windows 11 with a 32-bit or 64-bit system.
How to do this?
Step 1: Take note of the OS your device is running on. After knowing the right architecture for your system, go to the Microsoft Update Catalog homepage.
Step 2: At the top search field, type in Windows Defender and search for the failing updates. For an easier searching process, you should check the error code in the Windows Update that appeared on your system.
Step 3: When the list of many software results comes up, browse through the options to find the correct software update version for Microsoft Defender. Then, tap on the Download button at the side.
Step 4: After completing the downloading process, access the saving location for the update. Click on the “.msu” installation package here. You will see multiple instructions come up for safely installing the update in your system manually.
Follow the set of instructions correctly and then restart the device. Check if the issue is resolved in your system.
Solution 5: Reset the Components for Windows Update
In case the issue that is causing the Microsoft Defender update failure problem is due to corrupt or damaged components, that is what you should target. You have to fix the components to install the recent updates after that. Then, the update service can work as it is intended.
For this, you have to use the Command Prompt administrator function to reset the Windows Update components to the original settings.
How to do this?
Step 1: Go to the Windows Search icon on the homepage and type in the term “Command Prompt” into the search field. Click on the first app option that appears and press the Run as Administrator choice.
Alternatively, you can use the Windows + R hotkeys on the keyboard and type in “cmd” > Press OK.
Step 2: Under the User Account Control window, choose the Yes button.
Step 3: In the next window, add the following commands one by one:
- net stop wuauserv
- net stop cryptSvc
- net stop bits
- net stop msiserver
Step 4: After these work successfully, you have to add more commands into the Command Prompt window. These will restart previously deactivated services in the system:
- net start wuauserv
- net start cryptSvc
- net start bits
- net start msiserver
Step 5: Then, close the window. Try to run the Microsoft Defender updates again to see whether the issue is resolved.
Solution 6: Switch off third-party antivirus software options
You can install and use different antivirus software types with valuable protection against spyware and viruses, like Avast Antivirus. However, while they are useful, sometimes these antivirus software types can interface with the functionality of Microsoft Defender when both are operating simultaneously.
In that case, the best step is temporarily deactivating the antivirus software when trying to update Windows Defender. Later, you can reactivate it.
How to do this?
Step 1: Right-click on the software via taskbar icons.
Step 2: Choose Disable.
Step 3: Tap on the command to Disable until the next update.
Bonus: Utilize the Systweak Software Updater to Upgrade Windows Defender
Another easy-to-operate solution for you to try in case of Microsoft Defender update failure is utilizing Systweak Software Updater. The application works on Windows to automatically analyze the outdated software in the system and handle the upgrading process. This assures faster and automated PC performance improvement and security patchwork.
Furthermore, you can set a specific schedule for the updates, check the list of the reviewed updates that the software scans, and start the updates instantly with one click.
Best Features to Look Out For:
- User-friendly and simple to navigate UI for the software.
- Choose specific software updates to monitor and handle.
- View the history of software updates, installation, and monitoring that this software handled.
- Choose specific software updates that you do not want happening automatically.
Conclusion
Overall, there are different tactics you can follow, as mentioned in this list, to rectify the updating issue with Microsoft Defender on your PC. Troubleshoot the errors, update the Microsoft Defender Antivirus Service, and download the Windows Updates manually. But the easiest solution is to download the Systweak Software Updater to choose and automatically upgrade the functionality.
Study all your options in this context and choose the solution that will perfectly work for your specific situation.
Popular Post
Recent Post
Update Windows Security Signatures Manually On Windows 11/10
Windows security keeps your computer safe from viruses and malware. The system works by checking files against known threat patterns. These patterns are called security signatures. Without them, your computer becomes vulnerable to attacks. Sometimes, automatic updates don’t work properly. Your computer might miss important security updates. Network issues can block the download process. The […]
How To Enable or Disable Windows Defender- Activate/Deactivate
Windows Defender serves as your PC’s built-in defense system, safeguarding it against viruses and malware. At times, you may need to turn it on for protection, while in certain situations, disabling it might be necessary. Learning to activate Windows Defender keeps your computer safe. Knowing how to deactivate Windows Defender helps when needed. Both skills […]
Top Windows Security Settings To Keep Your Computer Secure
Your computer holds your life. Photos, work files, bank info, and personal data live on your PC. Bad guys want this stuff. They use tricks to steal it. But you can stop them with the right Windows security settings. Windows comes with built-in shields. These Windows security settings act like guards for your PC. Most […]
Top 10 Malicious Software Removal Tools For Windows [2025]
Your Windows computer faces constant threats from malicious software. These threats can slow down your system. They can steal your personal data. They can even damage your files. A Windows malicious software removal tool helps protect your computer from these dangers. Malicious software comes in many forms. Viruses, malware, trojans, and spyware are common types. […]
How To Scan Computer For Viruses 2025 [6 Methods]
Computer viruses are a real threat in 2025. These harmful programs can slow down your computer. They can steal your personal data. They can even break your system completely. Learning how to scan computer for viruses is vital for every computer user today. Scanning your computer for viruses should be a regular habit. Many people […]
How to Activate Windows Security on Your Device: Windows 11, 10
Windows Security is an essential safeguard built into your device, offering protection against viruses, malware, and other threats. By enabling Windows Security on Windows 11 or 10, you ensure robust security without any additional cost. This free security feature is included with every Windows computer. Many users struggle with properly activating Windows Security on their […]
Virus Threat Protection Settings For Windows Computer [2025]
Your Windows computer faces many threats every day. Hackers try to steal your data. Viruses want to damage your files. Malware aims to slow down your system. This is why you need strong protection. Cybercriminals work around the clock. They create new viruses every hour. They target home users and businesses alike. Your personal photos […]
How To Scan Your Device For Malware In Windows 11 & Windows 10
Malware poses a serious threat to Windows computers. Every day, millions of devices get infected with harmful software. These threats can steal your data, slow down your system, and cause major problems. Windows 11 and Windows 10 users face constant cyber threats. Viruses, ransomware, and spyware target these popular operating systems. Your personal files, passwords, […]
Top 5 Malware Checker Tools for Windows 11/10 [2025]
Unexpected pop-ups appearing on your PC? Missing files? These might be warning signs of malware. Malicious software can compromise your data or even disrupt your entire system. Digital threats come in various forms, from viruses to ransomware, each capable of harming your PC in different ways. Windows 11 and 10 need strong malware checker tools […]
How To Remove Virus Without Antivirus? [Top 7 Ways]
Computer viruses can make your computer slow, steal your information, or corrupt your files. Many people think you need expensive antivirus software to fix these problems. But the truth is, you can remove many viruses without buying any special programs. Learning how to remove virus without antivirus can save you money and give you more […]