Windows 10 May 2020 Update common problems — and the fixes
The Windows 10 May 2020 Update is here, but if it’s causing problems you can use this guide to troubleshoot and fix them all.
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Microsoft has begun the gradual rollout of the May 2020 Update forWindows 10with a bunch of new changes and several new features to enhance the experience of laptops and desktop computers. This is the ninth feature update, and it’s the first semi-annual update of 2020 available for supported devices.
Although the company is now finalizing the development earlier and spending more time testing and addressing as many problems as possible before the final release, as a result of version 2004 including significant code changes, it also means a lot of potential compatibility problems, issues with drivers, unexpected errors, and more.
In addition, because the May 2020 Update requires full reinstallation, you can also come across other issues that aren’t the result of the new development. Usually, upgrades could fail to apply because of storage problems, incompatible programs, damaged or outdated drivers, custom configurations, and problems with physical components.
In this Windows 10 guide, we’ll highlight some of the problems you are likely to encounter trying to install the May 2020 Update and possible solutions.
Get help to fix issues installing the May 2020 Update for Windows 10
Good to know –When a new version of Windows 10 becomes available, you may run into two types of problems. For instance, you can come across errors that are known during and after an upgrade, such as issues with activation, storage, features, and system update, which aren’t necessarily problems with version 2004.
Then, there are issues caused by bugs in the feature update. Some of these problems can be related to drivers, compatibility with apps or third-party security solutions.
This guide focuses on resolving common upgrade problems as well as methods to get around specific known issues (if available) during and after the installation using Windows Update, Update Assistant, or Media Creation Tool.
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How to fix Windows Update problems with the May 2020 Update
Although using Windows Update is the recommended method to upgrade to a new version of Windows 10, it’s not a flawless mechanism, and sometimes you may run into errors that will prevent your computer from getting the update.
Resolve unexpected errors using Windows Update
If Windows Update isn’t working, you can use the troubleshooter feature to resolve the most common issues.
To fix Windows Update to download version 2004, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, Windows Update should now be able to download and install the new May 2020 Update.
In the event that you get the error0xc1900223, it means that there’s an issue downloading the update, and there’s nothing else you need to do. At a later time, Windows Update will try to upgrade again.
Resolve error 0x80073712 using Windows Update
If, during the upgrade to Windows 10 version 2004, you see error0x80073712message, then it means that one or more of the required files are either missing or damaged.
To resolve this issue, you can use the Deployment Servicing and Management (DISM) tool with Command Prompt to restore the system files to a known good state.
To use DISM to fix Windows Update, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the required files will be repaired, and Windows Update should start working to download and install the first semi-annual update of Windows 10.
Resolve error 0x800F0922 using Windows Update
The error0x800F0922could appear when using Windows Update, if your device can’t connect to the Microsoft update servers, or if the System Reserved partition doesn’t have enough free space.
Disconnecting VPN session
Typically, you’ll see the error0x800F0922if you’re trying to upgrade to the May 2020 Update, and a VPN connection is active.
To fix this problem, disconnect the VPN session using these steps:
These steps will work when using the Windows 10 VPN settings. If you’re using another application, check its documentation for more specific instructions.
Resizing System Reserved partition
If third-party security software (such as antivirus) stores data in the System Reserved partition, then there’s a good chance that the new version of Windows 10 won’t install.
When this happens, you may need to use a third-party tool to resize the resevered partition to make it equal or larger than 500MB. Alternatively, you can choose toperform a clean installationwith version 2004, which will not only fix the problem, but you’ll start with a new fresh installation that can resolve previous issues and improve performance.
How to fix Media Creation Tool problems with the May 2020 Update
The Media Creation Tool is a utility designed primarily to perform fresh and upgrade installations of Windows 10, but it also has problems of its own, especially during the early days of the May 2020 Update.
Resolve Media Creation Tool stuck downloading
As part of the upgrade process, the Media Creation Tool downloads the installation files as well as any additional updates.
The only caveat is that the tool can get stuck downloading those additional updates, and it’ll prevent you from continuing the upgrade to version 2004.
If it stays on the “Getting updates” stage for a long time, you can use these steps to get around the problem:
Once you complete the steps, the download for updates will time out, and the setup will continue with the process. After the upgrade, Windows Update will install any remaining updates.
Resolve Media Creation Tool not starting setup
In the event that the installation process doesn’t start downloading the installation files, then you may need to begin the setup manually.
To launch the Windows 10 version 2004 setup manually, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, you should now be able to continue with the upgrade process to the May 2020 Update.
In the case that you’re still dealing with the same problem, then you should upgrade using theUpdate Assistant.
How to fix USB media problems with the May 2020 Update
When the installation fails using a USB bootable media, then there’s a good chance that the flash drive has some damaged or missing files. You can quickly resolve this problem, recreating the installation media with the Media Creation Tool.
To create a USB bootable media to install Windows 10 version 2004, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you’ll end up with a new installation media with fresh files that you can use to upgrade your device.
If the bootable media fails again, try the steps one more time, but from another computer. Or use another application, such asRufusto create the installation media.
How to fix Windows 10 setup problems with the May 2020 Update
As you begin the upgrade of the Windows 10 May 2020 Update, the setup process can fail with many error messages depending on the problem that is blocking the process.
Resolve Windows Setup errors 0x8007042B 0x4000D and 0x800700B7 0x2000A
If the setup fails with error0x8007042B 0x4000Dor error0x800700B7 0x2000A, then it means that another process is running in the background.
Usually, these processes are from applications and services that run at startup, such as from system processes, third-party antivirus, and other desktop applications.
If you’re performing an in-place upgrade, you can use Task Manager to terminate the process or application. Here’s how:
After you complete the steps, start the setup again and continue with the upgrade.
Alternatively, you can perform aclean boot of Windows 10to start the upgrade, or you can temporarily remove the program in question.
To uninstall apps (such as antivirus and legacy programs) that might be conflicting with the upgrade, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you should no longer see error “0x8007042B 0x4000D” or error “0x800700B7 0x2000A,” and you should now be able to complete the version 2004 installation.
Resolve Windows Setup error 0xC1900107
The0xC1900107error message indicates that the device was recently upgraded to a newer version. However, the previous installation files are still pending for deletion before you start the new upgrade process.
Restarting the computer usually fixes the problem, but if the error persists, use the Storage Sense to remove the previous version manually.
To clean up the previous installation files, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the previous installation will be removed, fixing the error “0xC1900107.”
Resolve Windows Setup install completion problems
Whether you’re trying to install a new feature update or cumulative update, you can run into two error messages:
These are generic messages, and you’ll need to determine the error code to find a solution or workaround.
To find out the exact error preventing you from installing version 2004, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you’ll have to research the message online. You may be able to find a solution at the officialMicrosoft forumsor using theWindows Central forums.
You can also check theWindows 10 update history support pageto find if a specific update has a problem and whether Microsoft has a workaround to mitigate the issue (if applicable).
Resolve Windows Setup updates problem
If you’re getting theError: The update doesn’t apply to your computermessage, it means that your device is missing updates, and you won’t be able to upgrade to version 2004 until the required updates are installed.
To check for updates, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you can use any of the supported methods to upgrade to the May 2020 Update.
Resolve Windows Setup error 0x80200056
The error0x80200056is not a critical problem. The message only indicates that the device accidentally restarted during the update process.
To fix this issue, after the device restarted, restart the Windows 10 setup.
How to fix Update Assistant problems with the May 2020 Update
In addition to Windows Update and Media Creation Tool, Microsoft also provides the Update Assistant, which is a tool designed to force an upgrade when Windows Update isn’t working correctly. However, like with any piece of software, it’s not a flawless tool, and some times, you can run into problems.
If you’re having issues with the tool, such as stuck downloading the May 2020 Update files, then it’s likely to be a networking related problem.
To fix the Update Assistant tool, use these tips:
If you continue with the same problem, use the Media Creation Tool to perform an in-place upgrade to the May 2020 Update.
How to fix storage problems with the May 2020 Update
Although Windows 10 now ships with Reserved Storage, a feature that sets aside part of the hard drive space for updates and temporary files, you can still stumble upon some storage related error messages:
The minimum hardware to install Windows 10 version 2004 requires at least 16GB of available storage to upgrade a 32-bit version or 20GB for the 64-bit version. If your computer doesn’t have enough space, you’ll not be able to install the new version.
To fix storage problems trying to upgrade to the May 2020 Update, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, you should now be able to go through the installation of version 2004. However, if you continue without enough space, you should consider adding an external storage (such as a USB flash drive or external hard drive) with at least 16GB of space that the system can use as temporary storage automatically.
You can usethis guide with a lot of tipsto free up storage space on your computer.
How to fix hardware and software compatibility problems with the May 2020 Update
Hardware and software compatibility can sometimes block the upgrade process, and you won’t be able to continue until you determine and repair the root of the cause.
Resolve error 0x80070002 0x20009
As you try to upgrade from an older version to the May 2020 Update, you may see error0x80070002 0x20009that indicates that the setup can’t find specific files.
This is another common problem upgrading to a new version of Windows 10, and you can quickly get around it by disconnecting any drive connected to your device, including USB flash drives (excluding the media installation drive) and external drives. Once you removed the peripheral, rerun the setup to continue with the upgrade.
Resolve error 0xC1900101
Whether you’re attempting to install version 2004 or another release, you can see a number of errors starting with0xC1900101or0x80090011that could indicate a problem with one or more drivers.
These are the different “0xC1900101” error codes:
If you’re dealing with any of the error codes mentioned above, you can use the tips below to troubleshoot and fix them.
Disconnect peripherals
To minimize errors during the upgrade of the Windows 10 May 2020 Update is a good idea to disconnect non-essential peripherals, such as external drives, printers, Bluetooth devices, USB devices, cameras, and others.
After the installation, you can reconnect them again.
Update drivers
Updating the device drivers to the latest release can also resolve any of the error codes.
To check for device driver updates on Windows 10, use these steps:
Important:If you’re getting the update from your manufacturer support website, then follow their instructions, and skip the steps below.
Once you complete the steps, you should no longer see in an “0xC1900101” or “0x80090011” error message during the version 2004 installation.
You can also check this comprehensive guide with everything you need to knowupdating drivers on Windows 10.
Optimize storage
If you see one of the “0xC1900101” errors, you can use the Storage settings, uninstall non-essential apps and games, and migrate personal files to another location to free up space.
You can usethis guide with a lot of tipsto free up storage space on your computer.
Repair installation
An error message starting with “0xC1900101” can also indicate a problem with the current setup, and as a result, you won’t be able to continue.
You may be able to fix this problem using the Deployment Servicing and Management (DISM), System File Checker (SFC), and System File Checker (SFC) utilities to repair issues with the installation.
You can usethis guide with the instructionsyou need to follow to resolve this issue.
Fresh installation
If you can’t get around the error, then use the Media Creation Tool to start fresh with aclean installation of Windows 10.
Resolve hardware error 0xC1900200, 0xC1900202, 0x80300024
If your device is already running any version of Windows 10, then it’s likely that you won’t see these errors. However, if you see error0xC1900200 – 0x20008,0xC1900202 – 0x20008, or0x80300024, then your computer doesn’t meet the minimum system requirements.
These are the minimum hardware requirements to install Windows 10 version 2004:
You can check this guide to understand thehardware specificationsof your device. However, if you see one of these errors, then it’s likely that you may need toupgrade the system memory.
Resolve driver error 0x800F0923
The error message0x800F0923refers to a compatibility problem with a driver or program on your computer. When upgrading to a new version of Windows 10, this error usually points out an issue with the graphics driver, legacy program, or third-party antivirus.
One method to find out the issue is to run the Update Assistant or Media Creation Tool, and during the setup process, if there’s a compatibility problem, the tools will report it more clearly.
In the case that it’s a driver problem, you should download and install a newer version from the manufacturer support website using their instructions. If available, try to download a beta version of the driver, as during the early days of a new version of Windows 10, the manufacturer is in the testing phase of new drivers to make them fully compatible with the latest release.
Remove incompatible driver
Alternatively, you can remove the driver, proceed with the upgrade, and then reinstall the device (if applicable).
To remove a driver causing upgrade problems, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, you should now be able to complete the upgrade of the May 2020 Update.
In addition, you may see error0x80070490 - 0x20007, which also indicates incompatible driver, and error0x80070003 - 0x20007that refers to an upgrade failure during the driver installation stage.
If you receive either of these errors, you should the device drivers causing the problem, and then try the upgrade process one more time.
Resolve app error 0xC1900208
During the upgrade to version 2004, it’s also possible that you’ll see the error0xC1900208 – 0x4000C. This message could signal that an app installed on your device isn’t compatible and is blocking the process. Usually, the apps causing the problem include legacy desktop programs and third-party antivirus.
To remove incompatible apps to complete the upgrade, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you may need to repeat the instructions to remove other conflicting apps.
How to fix after installation problems with the May 2020 Update
Although the installation of Windows 10 version 2004 may have completed successfully, you can still come across a number of issues, such as black screen, network connectivity, and activation.
Resolve black screen problems after upgrade
Black screen during and after an upgrade is not uncommon. Usually, it indicates a problem with the graphics driver, hardware, or it could suggest that the new version didn’t apply correctly.
The quickest resolution is to remove the May 2020 Update from your computer using the Advanced startup settings:
After you complete the steps, Windows 10 version 2004 will be removed, restoring the previous installation and fixing the black screen problem. Also, it’s recommended not to upgrade again until a new patch becomes available that fixes the problem.
Resolve network problem after upgrade
After installing the Windows 10 May 2020 Update, there’s a chance that you experience networking problems, such as slow wireless connectivity, intermittent connection, no connection at all, or the adapter isn’t available.
Troubleshoot network problem
To fix problems with a network adapter after installing version 2004, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the network should start working again.
Reset network adapters
If the problem persists, then resetting the networking stack will uninstall, reinstall, and set the default settings that could fix the problem.
To reset Wi-Fi as well as wired network adapters after upgrading to version 2004, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, Windows 10 will remove and reinstall all the network adapters, and it’ll reset the settings to their factory defaults fixing the connectivity problem.
In the case that you’re experiencing networking issues, remember that there could be a lot of reasons, including problems with the adapter, driver, settings, signal, cable, router, internet service provider (ISP), and of course, a bug with version 2004.
Resolve activation problem after upgrade
On Windows 10, once you activate the installation, the device will be reactivated automatically after an upgrade or clean installation without the need to type the license key. However, there will be times that the reactivation won’t work, and you’ll receive a “Windows not activated” message with error0x803F7001in the Activation settings page.
If this ever happens, be patient and wait, Windows 10 will reactivate later automatically. However, if it’s been a few days, you can use theactivation troubleshooterto activate your device running the May 2020 Update.
How to fix memory integrity blocking install of the May 2020 Update
If you’re trying to upgrade to the May 2020 Update, you’re likely to see the “Your PC settings need to be adjusted before upgrading to the latest version of Windows 10. Turn off memory integrity protection to continue” message that will prevent you from continuing the installation.
According to the company, there’s a compatibility problem with certain display drivers, and it’s recommending to update the graphics drivers to the latest version. However, the quickest way to mitigate this problem is to disable the memory integrity feature.
To resolve this issue, you need to disable the memory integrity feature using these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you should be able to run the setup of Windows 10 again install version 2004.
How to fix problem with older Nvidia GPU drivers on the May 2020 Update
If during or after the installation process of version 2004, you receive a Blue Screen of Death (BSoD), it’s likely because you’re using an older graphics driver from Nvidia. According to Microsoft, there’s a compatibility issue with some versions of Nvidia display adapters, and the company recommends to check and update the video drivers to the latest version (if possible).
To install the latest graphics drivers,you can use these instructions.
Alternatively, if you’re still on a previous version of Windows 10, it’s best not to upgrade until a solution is available. However, if you already upgraded, and you’re experiencing problems, you can try rolling back to the previous version using these steps:
Also, the company is working closely with Nvidia to find a permanent resolution, which is expected to release in future updates.
How to fix Cortana won’t close on the May 2020 Update
Starting with the May 2020 Update, Cortana becomes a regular app that updates through the Microsoft Store, and it’s no longer integrated into Windows 10. However, after installing version 2004, someusers are reportingthat Cortana doesn’t fully close when they close it, as you’ll still see the app when openingTask Viewor use theAlt + Tabkeyboard shortcut.
It’s unclear if this behavior is bug or if the app has been designed that way, but if you need to close the app, you can use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, Cortana will fully close on Windows 10.
If you want to prevent Cortana from launching on startup, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, Cortana will no longer start automatically when you sign in to Windows 10.
How to fix DISM corruption report on the May 2020 Update
According to Microsoft, after using the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) command with the
option there’s a chance of the tool reporting corruption even if the problem has been resolved running the command.
If you’re having this issue, you can quickly resolve this issue by running the same command again to confirm the current state of the system or using the the
option with these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you should no longer receive the message that corruption still present.
How to fix Cortana not available on the May 2020 Update
Alongside the new features and improvements, starting with the Windows 10 May 2020 Update,Cortanabecomes a regular app and it’s no longer integrated into the OS. However,some users are complainingthat after upgrading to version 2004, they receive a “Cortana is not available” at this time message.
If you’re facing this issue on a supported region, you can try reseting or reinstalling the app on Windows 10.
Reset Cortana app
To reset the Cortana app, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you can try to set up Cortana one more time.
Reinstall Cortana app
In the rare case that you still continue to see the same “Cortana is not available” message, then you can try reinstalling the application with these steps:
After you complete the steps, Cortana will reinstall on Windows 10, and it should now work as expected.
How to fix Intel Optane problems with the May 2020 Update
If you try to install the Windows 10 May 2020 Update (version 2004) on a device using an Intel Optane memory module, you’re likely to run into compatibility issues.
According to multiple reports at theIntel forum,Feedback Hub, andTwitter(viaWindowsLatest), the Optane Memory Pinnings don’t transfer successfully to the new version making it impossible for Windows 10 to load a specific module resulting on a “Unable to load DLL ‘iaStorAfsServiceApi.dll’: The specified module could not be found. (Exception from HRESULT: 0x8)” error message.
Although Microsoft is currently placing a temporary block on device likely to run into one of the many issues with the May 2020 Update, it’s possible to upgrade to the new version using theMedia Creation Tool. In the case that you have a device with an Intel Optane memory module, it’s recommend to skip the feature update until there’s a permanent solution. However, if you have already upgrade to version 2004, there is a workaround that might help to mitigate the problem.
To fix the Intel Optane problem with version 2004, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you should no longer see the error on Windows 10.
If the same issue continues to happen, it’s best to roll back to the previous version of Windows 10 with these steps:
Microsoft has yet to acknowledge this as an issue with the May 2020 Update, as a result, it’s unclear when the company or Intel will release a permanent fix.
How to fix Storage Pool problem after the May 2020 Update
After installing the Windows 10 version 2004,a small number of usershave reported error0X00000057with the message “Can’t Prepare Disks, Close all apps that are accessing the drive and try again” trying to create a storage pool using Storage spaces. The problem appears to happen even when no application is running and after trying different drive combinations and configurations.
At the time of this writing, Microsoft has yet to acknowledge the problem with the May 2020 Update. If you’re experiencing this issue, one workaround that seems to allow you to use the Storage Spaces is to rollback to the previous version, create the storage tool, and then upgrade to the new version.
To uninstall the Windows 10 May 2020 Update, use these steps:
If you’re planning to do more work with Storage Spaces, instead of upgrading again, it’s best to stay on the previous version until there’s a permanent solution to the problem.
How to fix Optimize Drives tool problem after the May 2020 Update
If you decided to upgrade to the new version of Windows 10, and you’re still using a traditional rotating platters hard drive, you may run into a reported issue using the defragmentation tool.
According to aFeedback Hub report(viaWindowsLastest), the Optimize Drives tool to defragment hard drives to improve performance reports that scans were never run on the device after a system restart, even though the optimization have been processed earlier.
The feature isn’t broken, as you can still use it to optimize a hard drive, but the only issue is the output report that resets to “never run” after a restart.
If you see this issue on your May 2020 Update installation, you can confirm the actual status of the defragmentation using the Event Viewer:
This is not an unknown issue, Microsoft already fixed this problem in thepreview build of Windows 10available through the Fast ring, but it’s unclear if the company will release an update to resolve the issue, or if you’ll have to wait until the next major refresh of the OS.
How to fix problems on Lenovo PCs after the May 2020 Update
It would appear that the Windows 10 May 2020 Update has a fair amount of issues with many Lenovo laptops, and the computer maker posted a support website revealing a number ofproblems and mitigation steps.
Fix yellow warning on drive
If a yellow warning marking appears on a drive is because of limitation with Windows 10, and you can resolve the issue using these steps:
This issue affects the ThinkPad X1, Extreme Gen2, ThinkPad P53, ThinkPad E14, ThinkPad E14 Gen2, ThinkPad E15 Gen2, and ThinkPad T490.
Fix UltraNav driver issue
If you recover your computer from a system image and see the error “Failed to load Apoint.DLL, Alps Pointing device application has stopped” message, then use these steps:
According to Lenovo, this problem affects the ThinkPad E570p and ThinkPad L570.
Fix F11 function key
If the F11 key isn’t working after a system recovery, then use these steps:
This problem may affect ThinkPad X1 and Tablet Gen 3 devices.
Blue Screen of Death (BSoD)
If you have a ThinkPad P70 laptop, you may see a Blue Screen of Death after resuming from hibernation or sleep. It’s yet unclear the cause of the problem, but the computer maker suspects that it could be an issue related to the BIOS.
The company isn’t saying when a permanent solution will be available. If this issue affects your experience, you’ll need to roll back to the previous version using these steps:
Green border on Movies & TV app
In the case that you have a ThinkPad X395 laptop, you may see a green border when resizing the Movies & TV app on Windows 10. According to the company, this is a problem with the AMD video driver, and a fix is expected to arrive on June 15.
Lenovo is working closely with Microsoft to offer a more permanent solution for all these problems.
How to fix Google Chrome problems with May 2020 Update
If you use Google Chrome on Windows 10, after installing the May 2020 Update, the browser may lose your credentials on reboot. In addition, the browser may also lose the ability to sync content and save cookies as you close the browser.
Microsoft hasn’t yet confirmed that these are problems with the new version, but Google is aware of the problem, and it’s working on a permanent solution. In the meantime, the company is offering a workaround:
Once you complete the steps, the problems should be resolved. If you see the same problem again, you may want to repeat the steps.
How to fix driver update loop with May 2020 Update
After installing Windows 10 version 2004,a small number usershave been complaining about the Windows Update continue to try to apply an older version of the Intel display drivers, even when the most up-to-date version of the driver is already installed in the device.
According to thecompany(viaWindowsLastest), the issue might be caused by the update cache, and you can try to resolve it in two ways. You can use the Windows Update troubleshooter, and you can delete the update cache.
To run the Windows Update troubleshooter, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the driver should no longer try to download automatically.
To delete the update cache, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, you can check for updates again, and the older Intel driver should no longer try download and install.
How to fix no internet access problem with May 2020 Update
According tosome users on Reddit, after installing the May 2020 Update, Windows 10 no longer connects to the internet, even though the internet service is functional.
If you happen to come across this issue, it has been suggested that modifying the registry can fix this issue until there’s a permanent solution.
Warning:This is a friendly reminder that editing the Registry is risky and can cause irreversible damage to your installation if you don’t do it correctly. It’s recommended to make a temporary full backup of your PC before proceeding.
To fix no internet access on Windows 10 version 2004, use these steps:
Quick tip:On Windows 10, you can now copy and paste the path in the Registry’s address bar to quickly jump to the key destination. 4.Double-click theEnableActiveProbingDWORD and set the value from1to0.
- Click theOKbutton.
Once you complete the steps, you should now be able to connect to the internet.
How to fix tablet mode problem with May 2020 Update
It has beenreported by a number of users(viaTech Radar) that many users that after installing the first cumulative update KB4557957, Windows 10 version 2004 will force the tablet mode experience, instead of the regular desktop interface.
If you’re facing this problem, use these steps without the need to remove the update:
After you complete the steps, you should now see the normal desktop experience on your desktop running Windows 10.
How to minimize problems upgrading to Windows 10 May 2020 Update
The development of Windows 10 to accommodate thousands of hardware and software configurations is a complex process, which means that there will always be the chance of problems during and after an upgrade.
However, when you prepare accordingly, you can reduce and, most of the time, eliminate any type of issues as you move to a new version, such as the Windows 10 May 2020 Update.
Create backup
A backup of your entire computer is one of the best steps you can take to prepare before an upgrade. The Windows 10 setup process includes a safeguard mechanism to restore the previous installation in case of a problem, but it doesn’t always work as expected.
Before clicking the install button, take the time tocreate a temporary backup. You can use any third-party tool, or you can use the legacy system image backup tool available on Windows 10.
In addition to the backup, it’s also recommended to create a file backup to an external hard drive or cloud storate service, such as OneDrive.
Remove non-essential apps
Legacy desktop apps and third-party antivirus solutions are usually the reason an installation will fail. This means that it’s a good idea to remove these apps before proceeding with the upgrade. You can reinstall them after installing the May 2020 Update.
To remove apps on Windows 10, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you may need to repeat the instructions to uninstall additional apps that may cause conflicts.
Disabling security software
In addition to removing conflicting apps, you should also consider uninstalling third-party antivirus and other security software temporarily. (After the update, you can install them again.)
Although it’s unlikely, if the problem is Windows Defender, you won’t be able to remove it, but you can disable it to continue with the upgrade.
Important:Uninstalling or disabling a security solution temporarily has low-to-none security risks. However, it’s assumed that you understand that it’s never recommended to leave your device without protection. Proceed with caution. You’ve been warned.
To temporarily disable Windows Defender Antivirus, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the antivirus should not conflict with the upgrade process, and it’ll re-enable automatically after the installation of Windows 10.
Free up space
If the device is running low on storage space, the new version won’t install. As such, another good tip is to free up space to make sure the setup will run as expected.
You can usethis guideto find out the best options to free up space on your computer.
Remove non-essential peripherals
Usually, non-essential peripherals connected to your computer can cause an installation to fail. Before proceeding with the May 2020 Update installation, disconnect USB flash drive, SD cards, external hard drives, printers, scanners, dongles, and Bluetooth devices.
Also, if you’re using a laptop connected to a docking station, undock it before proceeding.
Only keep the components you need, including mouse, keyboard, monitor, and internet connection. Then after applying the update, you can reconnect all your peripherals.
Disable firewall
The firewall can also cause problems if it has a custom configuration, or you’re using a particular solution that doesn’t play well with Windows 10.
If you’re using a third-party firewall, refer to the developer’s instructions to disable the software. In the rare case that the problem is the Windows Firewall, to disable the feature, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, Windows 10 version 2004 should download without interruptions.
Disable metered connection
If you previously configured a network connection as metered, the Windows 10 version 2004 won’t download on your device.
If you’re using a limited internet connection, it’s recommended to connect to a regular uncapped network , remove the settings, and continue with the upgrade.
To remove the metered setting for a connection, use these steps:
Alternatively, you could create a USB bootable media on another computer that’s connected to a different network, and then use that media to perform an offline in-place upgrade.
Use clean installation
If you want to minimize the chances of problems, the better option is to perform a clean installation.
A clean installation will delete everything on the main drive and will install a fresh copy of Windows 10, which also helps to fix existing issues.
If you want to go with a clean installation, you have to create a flash drive bootable using the Media Creation Tool, and then use it to start your device and continue with the fresh installation.
Although it’s a straightforward process, you have to execute a lot of steps. If you need assistance,use this guidethat includes everything you need to know to perform a clean installation of Windows 10.
Wrapping things app
Microsoft has been working proactively to improve and ensure that users go through a good experience upgrading to a new version of Windows 10, but with such a complicated system, there will always be a chance of something going wrong.
If you’re upgrading to the new version of Windows 10, this guide covers a lot of ground to resolve virtually every known problem during and after the installation of the Windows 10 May 2020 Update.
However, remember that’s never recommended to upgrade as soon as the feature update is ready, as it may still contain unknown issues and bugs that could negatively affect the experience. Usually, it’s best to wait until after a few cumulative updates become available to make sure that you’re installing a more stable release.
Did you have any problems upgrading to Windows 10 version 2004?Let us know in the comments and tell us the fix you used.
Mauro Huculak has been a Windows How-To Expert contributor for WindowsCentral.com for nearly a decade and has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides. He also has an IT background and has achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA. He has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years.
