How to fix
KB5027397 fails to install
on Windows

I can't install the latest preview build 22631 (KB5027397) on Windows 11. I keep getting a message I should try again later, but the result is always the same. I tried restarting my PC and waiting but to no avail.

Windows Updates are essential components that Microsoft releases regularly to improve system security, performance, and stability. Updates are typically categorized into “Quality Updates” and “Feature Updates”. Quality Updates are more frequent, addressing security and reliability issues, while Feature Updates are larger, providing new functionalities and improvements. In late September 2023, Microsoft rolled out the preview build KB5027397 for Windows 11, version 22H2. However, some users encountered problems, as this update failed to install on their systems.

The term “KB” in KB5027397 refers to Knowledge Base, a repository of troubleshooting articles created by Microsoft to help users resolve issues with their products. Each KB article is assigned a unique number to identify and reference the specific problems it addresses. When Microsoft releases an update, it is accompanied by a KB number, making it easier for users and administrators to find relevant information and solutions regarding any issues caused or fixed by the update.

Various reasons can cause KB5027397 fail to install. Corrupted system files are a common issue where essential Windows files are missing or damaged, preventing the update from being installed correctly. Problems with the update components themselves can also occur. For instance, if the update is not downloaded completely or correctly, it may not install as expected.

Sometimes, the issue might lie in the user's system having outdated or incompatible drivers, which may interfere with the update process. Users experiencing problems are advised to try running the Windows Update Troubleshooter or manually resetting the Windows Update components. In some cases, performing a clean installation of Windows 11 may also resolve the issue.

For users looking for an all-encompassing solution, employing a reliable PC repair tool is a wise choice. These tools can automatically diagnose and fix many common Windows problems, including those related to updates. One such recommended tool for addressing issues related to KB5027397 failure is the [d1] PC repair tool, providing users with a straightforward method to keep their systems running smoothly and efficiently.

Fix 1. Run Windows update troubleshooter

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built-in utility designed to identify and automatically resolve update installation issues. It scans and fixes problems related to Windows Update, making it a straightforward solution for non-technical users.

• In Windows search, type in troubleshoot and press Enter (you can also go to Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot).
• Select Other troubleshooters.
• Location Windows Update on the list.
• Click Run.
• Apply the suggested fixes and restart your PC.

Fix 2. Perform SFC and DISM scans SFC

System File Checker and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool are tools designed to repair corrupted system files that might be preventing the update from being installed.

• Type cmd in Windows search, right-click on Command Prompt result and select Run as administrator.
• When the UAC window pops up, click Yes.
• Copy and paste the following command and press Enter:
  sfc /scannow
• Next, use the following commands, pressing Enter each time:
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  (Note: if you get an error executing this last command, add /Source:C:\RepairSource\Windows /LimitAccess to it and try again).
• Reboot your device.

Fix 3. Restart relevant services

Restarting Windows Update services can resolve issues by refreshing the components involved in the update process.

• Type Services in Windows search and press Enter.
• Next, locate the Background Intelligent Transfer Service, Cryptographic Service, and Windows Update Service by scrolling through the list of services.
• Right-click on each service, and from the context menu, select Restart.
• In case a service is not running, double-click on it and select Automatic under the Startup type. Afterward, click on Start and then click OK.

Fix 4. Reset Windows Update components

Manually resetting Windows Update components reinitializes the update process, potentially fixing any glitches.

• Open Command Prompt as administrator, as explained previously.
• Copy and paste the following commands, pressing Enter each time:
  net stop bits
  net stop wuauserv
  net stop appidsvc
  net stop cryptsvc
  Del “%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\*.*”
  rmdir %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution /S /Q
  rmdir %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 /S /Q
  regsvr32.exe /s atl.dll
  regsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dll
  regsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dll
  netsh winsock reset
  netsh winsock reset proxy
  net start bits
  net start wuauserv
  net start appidsvc
  net start cryptsvc 
• Reboot your device.

Fix 5. Temporarily disable security software

Security software may sometimes interfere with the update process. Disabling it temporarily might allow the update to be installed.

• Open your antivirus or firewall application.
• Look for and select the disable or turn off option (the process may vary between different software).
• Attempt to install the update again.
• Remember to enable your security software after the update process is complete.

Fix 6. Install the update manually

Downloading and installing the update package manually can bypass issues encountered through the automatic update process.

• Open your browser and go to Microsoft Update Catalog
• In the search box, type in KB5027397 and press Search.
• Find the correct version of the update for your operating system (to check this, right-click on Start and pick System. Under Device specifications and check the System type) and click Download.
• Use on-screen guidelines to finish the installation process and restart your PC.