How can I find out what driver is blocking Windows Update?

Navigate to:
C:\$WINDOWS.~BT\Sources\Panther\

Look for these files:
setuperr.log: Contains errors encountered during the update process.
setupact.log: Contains a detailed activity log of the update.

Copy these files to a separate folder (e.g., on your Desktop) for easier analysis, as the $WINDOWS.~BT folder may be locked.


Open setuperr.log and search for:
Error  (To look for any entries mentioning drivers (.sys files) or hardware issues.)


In setupact.log, search for:
Blocking driver  (This will often point to a specific .sys file (e.g., xxxxx.sys) that is causing the issue.)



Once you identify the offending .sys file, locate it on your system: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\
Right-click the file and check its Properties > Details to see the manufacturer and version

Visit the manufacturer’s website to update the driver.
If no update is available, temporarily uninstall the driver:
Open Device Manager (Win + X > Device Manager).
Locate the associated device, right-click, and choose Uninstall


Download SetupDiag and run:

command Prompt:
SetupDiag.exe
(This will generate a report (SetupDiagResults.log) in the same folder as the tool.)

If the issue persists and the driver cannot be replaced or removed:

Restart your PC and press F8 or Shift + F8 to enter the Advanced Boot Menu.
Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart.
Select the option to Disable driver signature enforcement and attempt the update again.

If All Else Fails, then disable all non-Microsoft startup items and services:
Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
Reboot and try the update.


Remember:
Before removing drivers or attempting the update, create a system restore point or backup your data.
Check Hardware: Sometimes hardware like outdated peripherals (e.g., printers, docking stations) may cause update issues.