Forum Discussion
Windows Update loops on a specific driver on Win 11 PC
I'm running Windows 11 and Windows Update keeps trying to install the same specific driver over and over again, but it fails or gets stuck each time, causing the update process to loop endlessly and preventing other updates from installing. I've already tried pausing updates, restarting the Windows Update service, and running the update troubleshooter, but the same driver keeps reappearing in the queue no matter what I do, and I need a way to permanently hide or block this particular driver so the update cycle can finally complete without breaking anything.
3 Replies
Look for the specific driver update causing the issue (it may be listed with its KB number or description).
Hi Sheryl_Garvey, the cleanest way to stop a bad driver loop is to install the correct driver manually first, then block the bad one from Windows Update. Download the driver from the PC or device manufacturer, install it, and reboot. After that, if Windows Update still keeps offering the same broken driver, use the Microsoft show/hide updates troubleshooter or block driver updates by policy if you are on Pro or Enterprise. You can also use Device Manager to find the hardware ID and block that specific driver. I would avoid deleting random update folders unless you already have the correct replacement driver installed.
Hi, first install the correct driver directly from the device or PC manufacturer. After rebooting, if Windows Update still offers the bad driver, hide/block that driver update. On Pro/Enterprise, you can also stop Windows Update from including drivers, or block that device driver by hardware ID.
