My Windows Update is not working - stuck at searching for updates [Windows 11]

Hi. I'm David, and I'm happy to help you.

Please clarify the following:

• Do you have a third-party antivirus installed? If yes, which one?
• Do you have any VPN software installed? (Even if it's not running at the moment) If yes, which one?

Also. What is the current version and "OS Build" of your Windows 11?

• Press "Windows + R", type winver, and click OK.

If you prefer, share a screenshot. Use the shortcut "Windows + Shift + S" to use the screenshot tool.

Be sure to censor your email address if it appears. The Microsoft Q&A is public.

I await your reply.

Thanks for the clarifications.

Your Windows hasn't installed a cumulative update since at least May 13, 2025.

My suspicion is that corrupted system files may be preventing Windows Update from working correctly.

Since your Windows is still on the previous version (24H5), I suggest upgrading to version 25H2 by doing an In-place Upgrade using an ISO file. This should also help fix what's causing problems with Windows Update.

It's a simple procedure, and you have the option to keep files, settings, and apps. Therefore, all your data is kept.

Download the ISO file to perform the procedure:

1. Access the link below;

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows11

2. Under "Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO)", click "Select download" and select "Windows 11 (multi-edition ISO for x64 devices)";
3. Click "Download";
4. Choose the language and click on "Confirm";
5. Then, click "64-bit Download".
6. Wait for the download to finish and proceed to the procedure below.

After downloading the ISO, do the following:

1. Double-click the ISO to run;

(After running the ISO, you may need to double-click the Setup file to start the procedure.)

2. On the "Install Windows 11" screen, uncheck "I want to help make the installation of Windows better" and select "Change how Windows Setup download updates";
3. On the next screen, select "Not right now" and click "Next";
4. Accept the terms of use;
5. On the "Ready to install" screen, select "Choose what to keep" and select what you want to keep.

(It is in this step that you must check "Keep personal files and apps" so that all your data is kept.)

6. Click on "Install" and wait for the procedure to finish. Your computer may restart several times.

At the end of the procedure, your Windows 11 will be in the latest version (25H2), and some updates may already be installed. But check Windows Update to be sure.

If you get any errors, please let me know.

Feel free to ask back any questions.