Windows Update stuck at 0% / downloading forever

“Settings has been on “Downloading 0%” for hours and reboot did nothing.”

Settings → Windows Update with a spinner stuck at Downloading 0%.

Likely cause

The update service stack or BITS queue is wedged — often after a flaky VPN, metered connection, or interrupted patch. The UI stays at 0% even though the PC is otherwise fine.

Confidence 78%Windows 11 · Windows Update service running

1
Pause metering and VPN
Disconnect VPN. Settings → Network → confirm the active adapter is not marked Metered. Then hit Retry on Windows Update.
2
Restart update services
In an elevated Terminal: net stop wuauserv && net stop bits && net start bits && net start wuauserv. Return to Settings and check for updates again.
3
Clear the download cache
Stop wuauserv and bits again, rename C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download to Download.bak, restart the services, then Check for updates. Windows will re-fetch cleanly.
4
Run the built-in troubleshooter
Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters → Windows Update. Apply what it offers, reboot once, and only then consider an in-place repair install.

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