Share this article

Improve this guide

FIX: Norton Antivirus fails to update on Windows 10/11

4 min. read

Updated onMarch 26, 2024

updated onMarch 26, 2024

Share this article

Improve this guide

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more

Key notes

We can’t talk about third-party security solutions without including the NortonAntivirus. It’s one of the most reliable and valuable tools to use for malware protection.

However, there seem to be lots of issues when it comes to runningNortonon Windows 10 PC. One problem is thatNortonAntivirusfails to update on Windows 10 for some users.

We also made sure to try and address this with 4 enlisted solutions. If you’re unable toupdateNorton, follow the steps provided below.

Secure your devices with award-winning cybersecurity technology.

Maximize your PC’s security and performance with top-notch digital threat detection.

Keep secure with groundbreaking AI detection and prevention technology.

Browse the web securely for up to 3 devices across Windows, Mac, iOS or Android systems.

Best security tool for intense browsing activity.

How do I fix Norton Antivirus update problems?

How do I fix Norton Antivirus update problems?

1. Disable Windows Defender

When talked about third-partyantivirussolutions causing issues on Windows 10,NortonAntivirusis frequently mentioned.

In this case (and many others), the issues emerge due to the conflict between the built-inWindows Defenderand theNortonAntivirussuite.

Windows Defender should be disabled automatically after the installation, but every major update might change the setting. If you need more details about this tool, read ourcomprehensive guide.

Basically, if both antimalware solutions are working at the same time, one or the other won’t work as intended. Leading to issues likeupdatefailures.

2. Run Norton as administrator

Furthermore, due to the reports of performance issues on Windows 10, it’s best to runNortonwith administrative permissions.

The limitations imposed on theNortoncan be avoided afterward. You’ll, of course, need administrative access to your PC in order to grant these permissions.

If you try to openNortonafter you activate run as administrator option but nothing happens, use ourdedicated guidein order to fix this problem.

3. Reinstall Norton with the Remove and Reinstall Tool

If the previous steps fell short, we’re inclined to suggest a complete reinstallation of theNorton Antivirus. Especially if theupdateissues appeared after a majorupdateor system upgrade.

Also, it won’t suffice to remove the program with just a usual approach. You’ll need to use the developer-provided tool calledNortonRemove and Reinstall Tool.

You can also use any of thesebest third-party uninstaller toolsto get rid of your antivirus and other stubborn software from your computer.

4. Update Windows

Finally, you can just wait for the developer to resolve possible server stalls. While waiting, it won’t do you any wrong updating Windows 10.

Some issues were dealt with by applying the cumulativepatchesMicrosoft provided. Other system and security problems are also addressed through Windows updates.

After that, we can hardly suggest anything other but contacting the support and providing them the needed logs so they can deal with your issue internally.

If the Windows update is not working, your computer might have a serious issue. Thus, we recommend you to use ourdetailed guidein order to fix it.

With that said, we can call it a wrap. If you have an alternative solution you know of, make sure to post it in the comments section below. We would be thankful for your contribution.

More about the topics:Norton issues

Aleksandar Ognjanovic

Aleksandar’s main passion is technology. With a solid writing background, he is determined to bring the bleeding edge to the common user. With a keen eye, he always spots the next big thing surrounding Microsoft and the Windows OS.

Focused on Windows errors and how to solve them, he also writes about the OS’s latest features as well as its interface.

In his free time, he likes to read, listen to music, and enjoy the nature. Hiking is one of his newly found passions.

User forum

0 messages

Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes

Comment*

Name*

Email*

Commenting as.Not you?

Save information for future comments

Comment

Δ

Aleksandar Ognjanovic