Microsoft has suspended the rollout of the Windows 10 October 2018 update because of reports of a serious problem. Read more.
Starting October 2018, the Windows 10 1809 update will be available. The October 2018 update is one of two important annual updates to Windows 10. Like in previous updates, many improvements have been made with this version. This article explains how you can get started with the installation of the Windows 10 1809 update.
As with all Windows 10 updates, this one brings many modifications and bug fixes. Notably, Game bar has been reworked and allows you to view system performance; Emoji 11 is now included; bluetooth devices will now display available battery; and the magnifying tool has been updated for better zoom. Additionally, Microsoft has employed machine learning to help manage updates. Several updates have also been added for Microsoft Edge, including a redesigned Settings pane and new shortcut keys.
Install the Windows 10 1809 Update
There are a few tips for installing the Windows 10 1809 update.
Firstly, take your time and be thorough. You may have had problems installing previous updates, so it is advisable to launch the update via the Windows Update tool.
Continue by uninstalling unnecessary applications that could block the installation of the update. Some of the most common applications that may cause problems include IOBit, Glary Utilies, and Spybot.
Finally, uninstall your antivirus so that it does not impact the download. In previous Windows 10 updates, Avast! could have caused problems. The Windows 10 1809 update will be deployed by the Windows Update Agent starting from Oct. 2, 2018. This is the preferred method, because Microsoft automatically checks the compatibility of your computer. However, you can manually install this update through the Media Creation Tool.
The download is a few GB, so it can take some time depending on your internet connection speed. The second phase of the installation could take about 45 minutes. During this time you can access Windows 10 and can continue using your computer.
For the final phase of installation, you must exit Windows and will not longer be able to use the computer while the installation completes. During the update, a Windows.old folder is created, which allows the computer to downgrade (i.e. to go back to the previous version of Windows 10) in case of problems. The upgrade requires about 20 to 30 GB of free space on the hard drive.
Use the Windows Update Agent
Using the Windows 10 Update Agent is the classic method to install Windows updates. Using this method, the update will be automatically proposed overnight. The automatic download will, then, propose to launch the last phase of installation of the Windows 10 1809 update.
Manually Update with Media Creation Tool or Update Assistant
You can also download the Windows 10 1809 update manually. This is useful if the Windows 10 Update Agent is not working. An update assistant for Windows 10 is also available for download, or you can launch the update using the Media Creation Tool. Both options are available for download here:
Launch it, and follow the instructions that are displayed. There are no major differences between the two tools. Both are relatively simple and automated.
The computer will restart several times. Next, you will need to complete your configuration, including Cortana activation and privacy settings.
Once the Windows 10 1809 update is installed, you will receive a message to welcome you to and guide you through the October 2018 update.
Problems with Windows 10 Update
If you encounter problems during or after the update (i.e. missing sound, WiFi problem, etc.), do not hesitate to ask for help on the CCM Windows 10 forum.
