Article ID: KB26080012

Quick answer

Some Windows updates are not complete until the computer restarts. Windows Update may display Restart required, Restart now, or Schedule the restart. The Power menu may also show Update and restart or Update and shut down.

Before you begin

✓ Connect a laptop to its approved power adapter or powered docking station. For a desktop, confirm the power cable is secure and any approved UPS shows normal operation.

✓ Save open work, close applications, and confirm important files have finished saving or syncing.

✓ Confirm the computer is not a server, shared kiosk, meeting-room system, point-of-sale device, or other critical system with a controlled maintenance window.

Check Windows Update

1. Select Start, then Settings.
2. Select Windows Update.
3. Review the status near the top of the page.
4. Look for Restart required, Restart now, or Schedule the restart.
5. You can also select Start, then Power. Windows may display Update and restart or Update and shut down.
6. If a restart is approved, close any remaining applications and select the approved restart option once.
7. Keep the computer connected to reliable power while Windows applies the updates. The computer may restart more than once.
8. Sign in, allow startup applications to load, then return to Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates.

Expected result

Windows completes the pending update and no longer displays a restart requirement. Additional updates may become available after the first restart. On a PCMIT-managed device, follow the approved maintenance schedule if Windows or PCMIT indicates that another restart is required.

⚠️ Stop and contact PCMIT when

• ⚠ The device is a server, shared kiosk, production workstation, or critical system without an approved restart window.
• ⚠ Windows requests a BitLocker recovery key.
• ⚠ An update remains at the same percentage for an extended period or fails repeatedly.
• ⚠ Windows reports insufficient storage, a firmware update, or an unfamiliar administrator prompt.
• ⚠ The computer cannot start, files appear missing, or the restart requirement returns after successful restarts.

Include the computer name, Windows Update message, error code, and a safe screenshot when available. Never include a password, MFA code, or recovery key in a ticket.

Contact the PCMIT Help Desk

• ☎️ Phone: 888-910-1114
• ✉️ Email: [email protected]
• 🌐 Portal: help.pcmitcorp.com

Sources

• Troubleshoot problems updating Windows — Microsoft Support
• Keep your PC up to date with active hours — Microsoft Support