command prompt tips, Windows scripts, Windows updates, Windows updates cmd list

Managing Windows 11 Updates from the Command Line

For users seeking a more direct and scriptable method to manage system updates, Windows provides powerful command-line tools. Whether you prefer the traditional Command Prompt (CMD) or the more advanced PowerShell, you can initiate scans, downloads, and installations of Windows Updates without ever opening the Settings app.
This guide outlines the most effective commands for both environments. It is recommended to run either Command Prompt or PowerShell as an Administrator to ensure all commands execute with the necessary permissions.

Using PowerShell (Recommended Method)
PowerShell offers the most robust and flexible method for managing Windows Updates through the use of the PSWindowsUpdate module. This is a trusted, third-party module that needs to be installed first.

Step 1: Install the PSWindowsUpdate Module
If you have never used this module, open PowerShell as an Administrator and run the following command:

Install-Module -Name PSWindowsUpdate -Force

You may be prompted to approve the installation from the ‘PSGallery’. Type ‘Y’ and press Enter to proceed.

Step 2: Use the Update Commands

Once the module is installed, you can use a variety of simple cmdlets to manage updates.

To check for new updates:
Get-WindowsUpdate

This command, often abbreviated as Get-WU, lists all available updates for your system.

To download and install all available updates:
Install-WindowsUpdate -AcceptAll -AutoReboot

This is the most common command.Install-WindowsUpdate (or Install-WU) initiates the process.
-AcceptAll automatically accepts the license terms for all updates.
-AutoReboot will automatically restart your computer if an update requires it.
To choose specific updates to install:
First, list the updates with Get-WindowsUpdate. Then, you can select specific updates to install by name or KB number.
Using Command Prompt (CMD)
For those who prefer the Command Prompt, you can use the built-in Windows Update Session Orchestrator client, usoclient.exe. While it lacks the detailed feedback of the PowerShell method, it is effective for triggering the update process.
Open Command Prompt as an Administrator and use the following commands. Note that this tool does not provide visual feedback in the command window; it triggers the process in the background.

To start a scan for updates:

usoclient StartScan

To start downloading available updates:

usoclient StartDownload

To start installing downloaded updates:

usoclient StartInstall

To scan, download, and install in one command:

usoclient ScanInstallWait

To restart the computer after installation:

usoclient RestartDevice

While both methods are effective, the PowerShell PSWindowsUpdate module is generally recommended for its superior feedback, control, and logging capabilities, making it the preferred choice for system administrators and power users.

command prompt tips, Windows scripts, Windows updates, Windows updates cmd list