Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer How Long


Published: 15 Feb 2026


A computer that gets stuck during an update can cause stress. Work may stop. Files may feel at risk. The screen may show “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” for a long time. Users often search for answers like Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer How Long because they fear something is wrong. In most cases, the system is trying to protect itself.

Table of Content
  1. What Does Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer Mean?
    1. Why "Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer" Appears
  2. How to Fix Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer Windows 10/11
    1. Fix 1. Temporarily turn off Windows Defender
    2. Fix 2. Turn on Metered Connection
    3. Fix 3. Check Event Viewer for Update Errors
    4. Fix 4. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
    5. Fix 5. Scan System Files Using SFC and DISM
    6. Fix 6. Update all Device Drivers
    7. Fix 7. Boot into Safe Mode
    8. Fix 8. Rename the SoftwareDistribution folder
    9. Fix 9. Use System Restore to Return to a Previous State
    10. Fix 10. Reset Windows to default settings
    11. Fix 11. Reinstall Windows Completely
  3. Recover Lost Files from Windows 11/10/8/7
  4. Advantages and Disadvantages of “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer How Long”
  5. Conclusion
  6. FAQs About Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer

1. What Does Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer Mean?

“Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” is a message shown by Windows during an update problem. It means the system tried to install updates, but the process did not finish correctly. The computer is now removing the new changes.

Windows does this to protect the system. It returns the computer to its previous working state. This process is called a rollback. In simple words, the system cancels the update and restores old settings.

This message often appears after a restart. It may take some time to complete. In most cases, it is not a serious issue. The system is fixing itself automatically.

Why “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” Appears

Sometimes a computer shows this message during a Windows update. The system tries to install new files but fails to complete the process. It then removes the recent changes to keep the computer stable and safe.

  • The update files were damaged or incomplete.
  • The power turned off during the update.
  • The internet connection stopped.
  • The computer did not have enough free space.
  • A driver caused a conflict with the update.
  • A system file error blocked the installation.
  • A recent software program interfered with the update.
  • Security software stopped the update process.

2. How to Fix Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer Windows 10/11

The message “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” disappears once Windows restores the system to its last stable state. To avoid problems with future updates, users should apply certain fixes after the system returns to normal. If the computer gets stuck on this screen for hours, special solutions are required. No matter the situation, the 11 methods below are designed to help users recover and resolve the issue effectively. Choose the fixes that match your specific problem.

Situation / CaseRecommended Fixes
After the Error: Update failed, but the PC eventually starts normally.Prevent future problems:
1. Temporarily turn off Windows Defender
2. Turn on Metered Connection
3. Check Event Viewer for update errors
4. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
5. Scan system files using SFC and DISM
6. Update all device drivers
During the Error: Update failed and the system is stuck on the error screen for hours.Break the loop:
7. Boot into Safe Mode
8. Rename the SoftwareDistribution folder
9. Use System Restore to return to a previous state
All Other Fixes Fail: Updates keep failing or the loop does not end.Last resort:
10. Reset Windows to default settings
11. Reinstall Windows completely

Fix 1. Temporarily turn off Windows Defender

Some antivirus programs, including Windows Defender, can interfere with updates. Turning them off temporarily may help fix the “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” error. Here are the complete steps to temporarily disable Windows Defender for students.

  1. Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
  2. Click on Virus & threat protection.
  3. Select Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings.
  4. Turn off Real-time protection.
  5. Confirm any prompts to allow the change.
  6. Restart the computer and try the update again.

Fix 2. Turn on Metered Connection

When you enable a metered connection, Windows stops downloading some updates automatically. This can help fix the “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” error. Here are the complete steps to turn on metered connection for students.

  1. Open Settings from the Start menu.
  2. Go to Network & Internet.
  3. Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on your connection.
  4. Click on your active network.
  5. Turn on Set as metered connection.
  6. Close Settings and continue using your computer normally.

Fix 3. Check Event Viewer for Update Errors

The Event Viewer keeps a log of everything your computer does. You can look at this log to find errors from a failed update and fix the “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” problem. Here are the complete steps to turn on metered connection for students.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type eventvwr.msc and press Enter.
  3. In Event Viewer, go to Windows Logs → System.
  4. Look for Error or Warning messages related to updates.
  5. Click on a message to see details.
  6. Use the information to troubleshoot the update problem.

Fix 4. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows Update Troubleshooter is a tool built into Windows. It can find and fix problems with updates, including the “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” error. Here are the complete steps to run Windows update troubleshooter for students.

  1. Open Settings from the Start menu.
  2. Go to Update & Security → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Windows Update and click Run.
  4. Wait while the troubleshooter detects problems.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to fix any issues.
  6. Restart the computer after the process is complete.

Fix 5. Scan System Files Using SFC and DISM

The System File Checker (SFC) and DISM tools can scan and repair broken Windows files automatically. Using them is an easy way to fix the “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” error. Here are the complete steps to scan system files using SFC and DISM for students.

  1. Press Windows + S and type Command Prompt.
  2. Right-click and select Run as administrator.
  3. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any instructions.
  5. Next, type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter.
  6. Let the process finish; it may take several minutes.
  7. Restart your computer after both scans are done.

Fix 6. Update all Device Drivers

If the graphics driver is old or broken, the message “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” can appear. Updating the graphics driver manually can help fix this problem. Here are the complete steps to update all device drivers for students.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Find the device with a yellow warning icon or the one you want to update.
  3. Right-click the device and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
  5. Wait for Windows to find and install the latest driver.
  6. Restart the computer after updating drivers.

Fix 7. Boot into Safe Mode

If your computer is stuck in the “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” loop and the other fixes do not work, you should start by booting into Safe Mode. Safe Mode runs Windows with only the essential services. Once in Safe Mode, you can get out of the loop and use Fix 8, Fix 9, Fix 10, or Fix 11 to solve the problem. Here’s an easy way to enter Safe Mode.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Update & Security → Recovery.
  3. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
  4. After the computer restarts, select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.
  5. Press the number 4 or F4 to start in Safe Mode.
  6. Once in Safe Mode, try to fix the update problem or run necessary repairs.

Fix 8. Rename the SoftwareDistribution folder

The SoftwareDistribution folder holds files needed for Windows updates. If these files are broken, updates can fail. Renaming this folder can help the update complete and fix the “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” error. Here are the complete steps to rename the SoftwareDistribution folder for students.

  1. Press Windows + S and type Command Prompt.
  2. Right-click and select Run as administrator.
  3. Type net stop wuauserv and press Enter to stop the update service.
  4. Type net stop bits and press Enter to stop the background service.
  5. Go to C:Windows and find the SoftwareDistribution folder.
  6. Right-click the folder and select Rename, then change it to SoftwareDistribution.old.
  7. Return to Command Prompt and type net start wuauserv to restart the update service.
  8. Type net start bits to restart the background service.
  9. Restart your computer and check for updates again.

Fix 9. Use System Restore to Return to a Previous State

Windows System Restore lets you return your PC to an earlier state. You need to have created a restore point before the update. This will bring Windows back to a working version and remove the “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” error. Here are the complete steps to use system restore to return to a previous state for students.

  1. Press Windows + S and type Create a restore point, then open it.
  2. In the System Properties window, click System Restore.
  3. Click Next to see available restore points.
  4. Choose a restore point from a date when the computer worked well.
  5. Click Next, then Finish to start the restore process.
  6. Wait for Windows to complete the restore and restart the computer.
  7. Check if the update problem is resolved.

Fix 10. Reset Windows to default settings

If none of the above fixes work, you can try resetting Windows 10 or 11. This will restore your system and help fix the “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” error along with other update problems. Here are the complete steps to reset Windows to default settings for students.

Note: Resetting Windows will delete your installed apps and settings. Even if you select “Keep my files” or “Remove everything”, it is best to back up your important data before resetting.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Update & Security → Recovery.
  3. Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
  4. Choose Keep my files or Remove everything depending on your need.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.
  6. Wait for the process to finish; the computer will restart automatically.
  7. After reset, check if Windows updates work correctly.

Fix 11. Reinstall Windows Completely

If Windows is very damaged or Reset fails, a full reinstall can fix the “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” error. It removes all apps and settings and gives a cleaner system. Beginners may need to create installation media, but following the steps carefully will work.

  1. Back up all important files to an external drive or cloud.
  2. Download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website.
  3. Run the tool and create a bootable USB or DVD.
  4. Insert the USB or DVD and restart the computer.
  5. Boot from the USB or DVD by changing the boot order in BIOS.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows.
  7. Choose Custom: Install Windows only for a clean installation.
  8. Wait for Windows to complete the installation and restart the computer.
  9. Install drivers and updates after the fresh installation.

3. Recover Lost Files from Windows 11/10/8/7

Sometimes files are lost due to updates, accidental deletion, or system errors. Windows provides ways to recover lost files safely. Users can follow simple steps to get their important files back.

  • Step 1: Launch
    • Open Syncios D-Savior on your computer.
    • Choose the location you want to recover from (Partition, Recycle Bin, SD card, etc.).
    • Click Scan Now to start.
  • Step 2: Scan
    • First, the program runs a Quick Scan to find deleted files.
    • Then, it performs a Deep Scan to search thoroughly for all lost data.
  • Step 3: Preview
    • Browse files by Catalog or Type.
    • Preview files to make sure you select the right ones before recovery.
  • Step 4: Recover
    • Select the files you want to restore.
    • Click Recover Now.
    • Choose where to save the recovered files and start the recovery process.
  • Step 5: Check
    • Wait a few seconds for the process to finish.
    • Click Recovered to view all restored files.

Advantages and Disadvantages of “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer How Long”

When Windows shows the message “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer”, it means the system is rolling back updates that failed. While this process may take time, it has both advantages and disadvantages. Understanding them helps users know why the system behaves this way and what to expect.

10 Advantages of Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer How Long
  • Protects system files from corruption.
  • Prevents incomplete updates from causing errors.
  • Keeps personal files safe during rollback.
  • Stops Windows from crashing after a failed update.
  • Restores the system to a stable state.
  • Avoids conflicts with drivers or software.
  • Helps maintain computer performance.
  • Reduces chances of data loss.
  • Automatically fixes minor update problems.
  • Makes future updates more successful.
10 Disadvantages of Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer How Long
  • Can take a long time to complete.
  • Users may feel confused or worried.
  • Interrupts work or ongoing tasks.
  • May cause repeated restart loops.
  • Can be frustrating for beginners.
  • Sometimes does not solve the root update problem.
  • Large updates may slow down older computers.
  • Requires patience from the user.
  • May need additional troubleshooting afterward.
  • Can lead to repeated attempts if updates fail again.

Conclusion

So guys, it’s time to wrap up! In this guide, we have explained “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer How Long” in detail. Usually, this process takes 30 minutes to 1 hour, but it may take longer depending on your system and update size. It is always best to be patient and let Windows finish rolling back changes.

Following safe fixes like Safe Mode, System Restore, SFC/DISM scans, or renaming the SoftwareDistribution folder can help if the process gets stuck. In rare cases, you may need to reset or reinstall Windows. Understanding these steps ensures your computer stays safe, updates successfully, and avoids future errors.

FAQs About Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer

Many people ask questions about “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer.” Here, we explain all the FAQs about Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer for students.

How long should I wait before restarting my computer?

It is best to wait at least 30–60 minutes. Small updates may take longer. Restarting too soon can make the problem worse.

Is it safe to turn off my PC while undoing changes?

No, it is not safe. Turning off the PC can cause system errors or data loss. Only force shutdown if it is stuck for more than 2–3 hours.

Why does my computer keep restarting during update?

This happens when updates fail repeatedly or system files are corrupted. Windows tries to fix itself by restarting.

Can I lose my personal files during rollback?

Generally, personal files are safe. Windows only removes failed updates and restores system settings.

Does this problem happen in Windows 11?

Yes, it can happen in Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7. The reason is usually a failed update or corrupted system files.

How do I know if my update is completely stuck?

If the screen shows “Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer” for more than 2 hours with no progress, the update is likely stuck.

Can a virus cause update failure?

Yes, viruses or malware can block updates or corrupt system files, causing this error.

Should I reset Windows if the problem continues?

Resetting Windows is a last resort. Try other fixes first like Safe Mode, System Restore, or SFC/DISM scans before resetting.




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