How Long Should Windows 10 Getting Ready Take and Why It Matters

The Windows 10 'getting ready' process, often referred to as the update process, can take varying amounts of time depending on several factors. This article aims to provide insights into why your computer might take a long time to update and what you can do to ensure a smooth update process.

Understanding the Update Process

The duration of the Windows 10 update process can range from a few minutes to several hours. In many cases, an update might take up to an hour or more, especially for larger updates. However, if it takes significantly longer or if it appears to be stuck for an extended period (over an hour), it may signal an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

Factors Affecting Update Time

Several factors can influence the length of the update process, including:

Device Specifications: The speed and specifications of your computer (CPU, RAM, and storage) play a significant role in the time it takes to apply an update. Internet Connection: The speed and stability of your internet connection are crucial for downloading the update files. Installed Programs: The presence and performance of third-party programs on your device can affect the update time. Update Size: Larger updates typically take longer to download and install. Current OS Version: The difference between your current OS version and the new one can affect the update duration.

For a fresh Windows 10 installation on an average device with an Intel i5-4300U, 8GB of RAM, and an SSD, the update process should generally take up to 10 minutes. However, updates to version 21H1 and 21H2 may take a bit longer, sometimes up to 2 hours.

Why My Laptop's Update Process Took So Long

My laptop's update process, which has been ongoing for over two hours and has rebooted multiple times, is due to several reasons:

Device Specifcations: My laptop, being an 8-year-old model, has a much slower performance compared to a more modern device. Internet Connection: An older internet connection with limited bandwidth can significantly slow down the update process. Update Size: The size of the update, especially for older versions of Windows 10, can make the process more time-consuming.

For example, updating from Windows 10 version 2018 (1809) to 20H2 in December 2020 consumed around 5GB of data. The initial 1–2 GB data from version 1809 was necessary before proceeding to the larger update to 20H2. The entire process, including download and installation, took approximately 3–4 hours on a Jio Prepaid Connection with an average download speed of 500–600 kb/second.

Best Practices for Windows 10 Updates

To ensure a smoother Windows 10 update process, consider the following best practices:

Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection during the update process. Monitor Your Device Specifications: Use a computer with modern specifications if possible to minimize the update time. Update at a Convenient Time: Plan the update during a period when you can leave your computer to complete the process without interruptions. Keep Your Laptop Charged: Ensure your laptop is fully charged during the update process to prevent unexpected shutdowns. Perform the Update on a Holiday or Weekend: If you're pressed for time during the weekdays, consider doing the update on a holiday or weekend when you can dedicate more time to the process.

Some users have reported that updates for newer versions of Windows 11 are typically faster, lasting only 2 to 5 minutes. However, for older versions like 20H2, the update process can be more time-consuming. As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10, so it's recommended to update to Windows 11 for continued support and faster updates.

Conclusion

The length of the Windows 10 update process can be influenced by various factors, and while it might take a long time, it's important to ensure that the update completes successfully to maintain the security and performance of your system. By following the best practices outlined in this article, you can minimize any disruptions and ensure a smooth update experience.