How to Prevent PC from Crashing After Windows Update?

By: Parvat Sarvade - Updated: December 31, 2018 7:44 am

A lot of Windows 10 users have reported crashing of their PCs after installing the Windows 10 update. Windows 10 is known to be the most stable version by far as it comes with some high-end features and applications. However, post October Update, many users are experiencing the weird issues with their Windows 10 system.

If you’re planning to install the latest Windows 10 updates, but not sure whether it will make or break your PC, then here are some tips for you.

As they say, prevention is better than cure. In this guide, I have detailed some important preventive measures you need take to save your PC from crashing after Windows 10 update. Let’s start.

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Basic Essential Preventative Measures

Starting with the basics, following are the steps you need to take before starting the Windows 10 update installation:

1. Back-up all your important data

Most of the valuable data and documents are stored in your PC, and you don’t want to lose it ever! If in case your PC crashes after the Windows 10 update, you’ll need to reset your system to fix crashing issues.

Make sure you have the full back up of your system saved on the hard drive. You can perform a full back up of your data manually in a disc or a pen drive. You can also use a third-party backup tool or an online backup service.

Once you’ve successfully saved the back up of your PC, all your data including pictures, music, videos, and documents are safe and stored even if you have to do a clean install of Windows.

2. Check hard drive space

Make sure that you have enough hard drive space in your Windows system. It should be at least 20% or more of the total size of your hard drive. For example, if you have 1 TB hard disk, make sure there’s at least 200 GB space left for the installation if the Windows 10 updates.

You might need plenty of space for your Windows programs to function. You’ll also need ample of free space if you’re recovering your Windows system as it won’t create System Restore Point if there is not enough space.

Check your hard drive space using the following steps-

Go to the Settings menu
Hit the System option
Select the Storage icon (in the left menu)

You can delete unwanted and temporary files from your system to free up the hard disk space for better programs.

3. Change Windows Update Settings

It’s a good idea to make changes to your Windows Update settings to avoid unwanted automatic installation. Automatic installation might go wrong and give an adverse effect to your PC.

I suggest you check the Download updates but let me choose whether to install them. Most of the critical security updates are downloaded, but won’t get installed without your permission.

You’ll have to configure your Windows Update for one time only and rest it’ll perform its downloading but not installing duties on its own.

Steps before Installing any Updates

Now that you’ve configured your Windows Update Settings, you’ll have to install these downloaded updates manually. However, before you install these updates, follow these useful steps to avoid any issues later-

1. Plug in Charger to your Computer

One of the most common reasons that crash your PC is due to sudden power off of your PC while installing an update. We suggest you plug in your charger even if you have sufficient battery in your system.

2. Create a Restore Point

Although, Windows itself makes a restore point before installing any programs you want. However, we recommend you to create a restore point manually. Many users have reported that the System Restore breaks when they need it the most.

3. Disable Your Antivirus Program

At times, your Antivirus may not identify the new programming codes and block the installation process.

Hence, before you download or install a new program in your PC, temporarily disable your Antivirus software. It prevents your PC from installation issues.

4. Reboot Your System

When specific security updates are applied to your Windows system, you’re restarting your PC after a long time. You’ll also identify specific unknown malware or hardware issues after you restart your PC.

If you’re PC restarts successfully, you’ve applied the security updates correctly.

Install Updates One by One

Now that you’re ready to install all the Windows 10 updates with all the preventative measures let’s get started.

Install each update at a time and restart your PC after every update
Make sure that you disable the anti-virus program’s real-time service as Windows restarts after every update

Well done! These methods will surely prevent your PC to crash before, while or after any Windows 10 updates. Have any other issues with your Windows system? Drop-down your questions in the comments section below.

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How to Prevent Your PC from Crashing After Windows Update?