How to Fix Windows Update Tab Is Missing from Settings in Windows 11

Windows updates are essential for maintaining system security, performance, and stability. However, some users may encounter an issue where the Windows Update tab is missing from the Settings app in Windows 11. This can prevent you from checking for updates, installing security patches, and accessing update-related settings. This guide will walk you through recovering the lost Windows Update tab in Windows 11.

Method 1: Reset the Windows Update Service

The Windows Update Service is responsible for fetching and installing updates on your system. If it’s disabled or malfunctioning, the Windows Update tab might disappear. Resetting the service can help fix the issue.

Step 1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator

Press Win + S, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.

Step 2. Type the following commands 

In the Command Prompt, type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:

net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 Catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver

Method 2: Modify Settings Page Visibility in Group Policy

The Local Group Policy Editor allows administrators to control which pages are visible in the Settings app. If the Windows Update tab is missing, it could be due to a restriction set here.

Step 1. Open Local Group Policy Editor

Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.

Step 2. Navigate to the following location:

Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Control Panel

Step 3. Modify the Visibility Setting

Double-click Settings Page Visibility on the right panel and set it to Disabled.

Method 3: Show Only Specified Control Panel Items

Another way to control visibility is through the Show Only Specified Control Panel Items policy. If this setting is enabled, it might restrict access to the Windows Update settings.

Step 1. Open Local Group Policy Editor

Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.

Step 2. Navigate to the following location:

Step 3. Check the "Show Only Specified Control Panel Items" Policy

On the right side, locate Show only specified Control Panel items, set it to Disabled.

Step 4. Apply and Restart

Click OK, close Group Policy Editor, and restart your PC.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can regain access to the Windows Update tab and ensure your system stays up to date. If the issue persists, consider running the Windows Troubleshooter or performing a System Restore to revert to a previous working state.