Undoing Changes Made to Your PC Windows 11: Easy Fixes That Actually Work

SALIH MOHAMED

Facing the “Undoing changes made to your PC” error on Windows 11? Learn what causes it, how to fix it, and how to prevent it from happening again with these step-by-step solutions.

Undoing Changes Made to Your PC Windows 11

When Windows 11 Gets Stuck “Undoing Changes”

If you’ve ever restarted your Windows 11 computer only to see the dreaded message “Undoing changes made to your PC” you’re not alone. It’s one of those frustrating moments where your system seems frozen in time, looping endlessly as it tries to roll back recent updates or changes.

This issue usually appears after a failed Windows Update or when certain system files become corrupted. The good news? You don’t have to panic or rush to reinstall Windows. With the right troubleshooting steps, you can fix this problem and get your computer running smoothly again.

In this guide, we’ll explain why Windows 11 shows the “Undoing changes made to your PC” message, and provide simple, proven methods to solve it once and for all.

Why Windows 11 Says “Undoing Changes Made to Your PC”

Before we jump into fixes, it helps to understand what’s really happening behind the screen.

1. Failed Windows Update Installation

Most commonly, this message appears when a Windows Update fails to install properly. Windows tries to apply an update, encounters an error, and then reverses the changes to protect your system.

2. Interrupted Update Process

If your PC shuts down or loses power during an update, Windows might roll back incomplete changes during the next startup.

3. Corrupted System Files

Damaged or missing system files can prevent updates from being installed, forcing Windows to undo recent modifications.

4. Software or Driver Conflicts

Third-party programs, outdated drivers, or antivirus tools can interfere with the update process and trigger the undoing loop.

How to Fix “Undoing Changes Made to Your PC” on Windows 11

Let’s go through the most effective solutions starting with the easiest ones.

Fix 1: Wait It Out (Yes, Really)

It may sound simple, but sometimes Windows just needs time to finish reverting changes.
👉 Tip: Wait at least 30–60 minutes before taking further action. Interrupting this process too early can cause data loss or make the problem worse.

If your PC remains stuck after an hour, move on to the next step.

Fix 2: Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode lets Windows start with minimal drivers and services perfect for troubleshooting.

Steps:

  1. Hold the power button to force shutdown.
  2. Turn your PC back on and immediately press the power button again to interrupt startup.
  3. Repeat this three times — on the third attempt, Windows will enter Automatic Repair Mode.
  4. Go to Advanced Options → Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Startup Settings → Restart.
  5. Press 4 to enable Safe Mode.

Once inside Safe Mode:

Fix 3: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter to detect and fix update-related problems.

Here’s how to run it:

  1. Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.
  2. Find Windows Update and click Run.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions and let Windows repair the issue.

After it finishes, restart your computer and check if the problem persists.

Fix 4: Use System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tools

If corrupted files are the cause, Windows can repair them using built-in commands.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + S, type cmd, and right-click Command Prompt → Run as administrator.
  2. Enter the following commands one by one:
sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands scan and restore missing or damaged system files.
When done, restart your computer and check if the “Undoing changes” loop disappears.

Fix 5: Perform a System Restore

If the issue started recently, restoring Windows to a previous state can easily fix it.

To restore your PC:

  1. Press Win + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
  2. Choose a restore point from before the error occurred.
  3. Follow the prompts to complete the process.

After rebooting, your PC should function normally without undoing changes.

Fix 6: Reset Windows Update Components

Sometimes the Windows Update service itself gets stuck. Resetting it can clear the queue.

Open Command Prompt (Admin) and type:

net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
net stop cryptsvc
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start bits
net start cryptsvc

Then restart your PC and check for updates again.

How to Prevent This Issue in the Future

Now that your PC is back to normal, take a few preventive steps to avoid seeing this message again.

1. Keep Windows Updated Properly

Install updates regularly but ensure your device is plugged in and stable during the process.

2. Avoid Force-Shutting Down During Updates

Never turn off your PC while updates are installing. It can cause file corruption.

3. Check Storage Space

Make sure your C: drive has at least 10–15 GB of free space before updating.

4. Keep Drivers and Software Up-to-Date

Outdated or incompatible drivers are a common cause of update errors. Use Windows Update or the manufacturer’s website to stay current.

5. Use Reliable Power and Internet Connection

Interruptions in power or connectivity can easily break update processes.

Take Back Control of Your PC

Seeing “Undoing changes made to your PC” on Windows 11 can be stressful, but it’s usually fixable with a few smart troubleshooting steps. Whether it’s uninstalling a bad update, running system repair tools, or restoring your PC to an earlier point the key is patience and methodical action.

If you’ve tried the steps above and successfully fixed your computer, share which method worked for you in the comments below! Your experience might help others facing the same problem.

Related Articles
↑
Exit mobile version