You can open Windows Update from Command Prompt or PowerShell, but opening it is not the same as installing every update automatically. For most home PCs, the supported starting point is the Windows Update settings page. A downloaded update package is a separate option when Microsoft provides one for your exact system.
Open Windows Update with a command
In Command Prompt, enter:
start ms-settings:windowsupdateIn PowerShell, enter:
Start-Process "ms-settings:windowsupdate"Then use the settings page to check for available updates and read any restart request. Microsoft lists the Windows Update address in its Settings URI reference. These commands open the page; they do not bypass update policies, compatibility checks or support deadlines.
Choose the right tool for the task
| Task | Suitable starting point |
|---|---|
| Check and install normal Windows updates | Windows Update settings |
| Install a matching downloaded .msu package | Windows Update Standalone Installer, where the package supports it |
| Update applications managed by WinGet | winget upgrade, after reviewing the list |
| Repair Windows component corruption | Microsoft’s repair instructions; DISM is not a replacement for routine updates |
Install a specific update package carefully
- Find the update’s official Microsoft support page and confirm the KB number.
- Check the Windows version, build, architecture and any prerequisites.
- Use the linked Microsoft Update Catalog download for the matching package.
- Save your work and follow the package’s installation instructions.
For a suitable standalone .msu file, the command can take this form:
wusa.exe "C:\Updates\matching-update.msu"The path above is a placeholder. Replace it with your actual downloaded file. Microsoft’s WUSA guide explains the installer. Current packages can have additional requirements, so the update’s own support page takes priority over a generic old command.
Be cautious with old one-line fixes
Commands copied from old guides, including undocumented update triggers, may not work consistently on current Windows versions. A lack of command output does not prove that updates were installed. Check the update history and the resulting Windows build.
PowerShell update modules found online may be third-party tools. You do not need to set script execution to Unrestricted just to open Windows Update. Use an organisation’s approved process on managed PCs.
What about Windows 10?
Windows 10’s ordinary free support ended on 14 October 2025. Any further update availability depends on the edition and applicable support or extended-update programme. A CMD or PowerShell command cannot make an unsupported installation eligible for new security updates.
Use our installed-apps and WinGet guide when the job is updating an application rather than Windows itself.
Frequently asked questions
Does the start command install Windows updates?
No. It opens the Windows Update settings page so you can review and start available updates.
Does winget upgrade update Windows itself?
It updates supported applications. It is not a replacement for Windows Update servicing.
Can I install any MSU file on my PC?
No. The package must match the system and meet its prerequisites.
How do I know an update finished?
Check update history, any restart requirement and the Windows build. Do not rely only on a command returning without an error.