FAQ
TL;DR: Windows 8.1 "Checking for updates" hangs are fixable with a 3‑step reset. "Support for Windows 8.1 has ended" on Jan 10, 2023, so options are limited. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter and install the slow‑scan fix update offline. [“Windows 8.1 support has ended”]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps anyone reinstalling or reviving Windows 8.1 PCs fix stuck updates and Store errors fast.
Quick Facts
- End of support: Jan 10, 2023. No new security fixes or technical support for Windows 8.1. [“Windows 8.1 support has ended”]
- Install KB3102812 to address slow update scans and high CPU on 8.1. [“Installing and searching for updates is slow and high CPU usage occurs”]
- KB3138615 provides Windows Update client improvements that can aid detection. [“KB3138615”]
- The Windows Update Troubleshooter repairs service registration and common WU errors. [“Windows Update Troubleshooter”]
- Stopping wuauserv before running a standalone update helps the installer proceed cleanly. [Elektroda, Kolobos, post #17615388]
How do I fix Windows 8.1 stuck on “Checking for updates”?
Use an offline fix, then scan again. How-To: 1. Stop Windows Update: open Command Prompt (Admin), run: net stop wuauserv. 2. Run the standalone update that fixes slow scanning (KB3102812). 3. Reboot, then open Windows Update and check again. This sequence prevents the installer from fighting the running service and often breaks the scan loop. [Elektroda, Kolobos, post #17615388]
Do I need to stop the Windows Update service before installing a .MSU?
Yes, stop the service so the standalone installer isn’t blocked. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run: net stop wuauserv. Then launch the .MSU, complete installation, and reboot. Start Windows Update afterward to rescan. This avoids file locks and speeds completion. [Elektroda, Kolobos, post #17615388]
How long should Windows 8.1 search for updates before I worry?
Give it time on older hardware or slow connections. On such systems, the initial catalog build can take a long time. If there is no visible progress after an extended period, cancel the scan. Then install the recommended standalone update offline and retry. “It can take a long time” on slow systems. [Elektroda, Kolobos, post #17615518]
What does KB3102812 change exactly?
KB3102812 addresses the well-known scan stall and CPU spike. Microsoft summarizes it as: “Installing and searching for updates is slow and high CPU usage occurs.” Install it offline, reboot, and then scan again. This targets the Windows Update components that cause long detection cycles on Windows 8.1. [“Installing and searching for updates is slow and high CPU usage occurs”]
Does KB3138615 help with the stuck update problem?
Yes. KB3138615 updates Windows Update components to improve search and install reliability. Download the correct .MSU for your architecture, stop the Windows Update service, install, then reboot. Afterward, run Windows Update to rebuild the catalog and detect remaining patches. [“KB3138615”]
I ran the Windows Update Troubleshooter, but it still loops. What next?
Move to the offline approach. Stop the Windows Update service, then install the standalone update that fixes slow scanning. Reboot and run Windows Update again. This sequence is effective when the troubleshooter reports fixes but the scan still hangs. [Elektroda, Kolobos, post #17615388]
The Microsoft Store says “not available” or “try again later.” How do I fix this on 8.1?
Follow a focused Store fix guide: run WSReset, verify date/time, disable any proxy, and re-register the Store app. Also restart and retry. Edge case: incorrect time or a proxy can block Store authentication entirely. The guide walks through each step with screenshots. [“Fixing the Windows 8.1 ‘We weren’t able to connect the Store’ error”]
Do Windows 8.1 updates still arrive after January 10, 2023?
No. Windows 8.1 reached end of support on Jan 10, 2023. Microsoft no longer provides security updates or technical support. Plan to upgrade for continued protection and Store functionality. [“Windows 8.1 support has ended”]
How do I run the Windows Update Troubleshooter on Windows 8.1?
Download the Windows Update Troubleshooter, run it, and choose Windows Update. Let it repair services, components, and registry entries. Restart the PC after it reports completion, then scan again in Windows Update. This automated tool resolves common WU failures. [“Windows Update Troubleshooter”]
How can I manually install a specific update (MSU) from Microsoft Update Catalog?
Open the Microsoft Update Catalog. Search the KB number, choose the package for your architecture (x86 or x64), and download it. Double‑click the .MSU to install, accept prompts, and reboot when finished. Then open Windows Update to detect follow‑ups. [“Microsoft Update Catalog”]
Is high CPU during “Checking for updates” normal on 8.1?
Yes, it’s the known issue KB3102812 addresses. Microsoft states: “Installing and searching for updates is slow and high CPU usage occurs.” Install the update offline, reboot, and then scan again to reduce CPU impact and detection time. [“Installing and searching for updates is slow and high CPU usage occurs”]
My update check ran for about an hour with no progress—should I cancel?
Yes. One user reported the scan sat about an hour without moving. Cancel the scan, stop the Windows Update service, install the standalone fix update offline, reboot, then rescan. This avoids waiting indefinitely on a stalled detection cycle. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #17615322]
