How to Clear Windows Update History in Windows 11

Clearing your Windows Update 🔃 history in Windows 11 removes the list of past patches and upgrades shown in your settings app without deleting any actual system files. Windows 11 keeps a running log of every update it installs, which can make your settings menu cluttered over time.

Wiping this list is safe and helps clean up your screen. It also lets you start fresh when you need to troubleshoot a failed update or check what recently changed on your PC.

How to clear your update history

1. Click the Start button ⊞ and type “Terminal.”
2. Right-click on 🖱️ Terminal and select Run as administrator (requires admin privileges).
3. Copy the following command and paste it into the window, then press Enter:

Paste the following command into the window and press Enter: [Command goes here] This command clears out the underlying log files without touching the actual system patches.

powershell -windowstyle hidden -command "Start-Process cmd -ArgumentList '/s,/c,net stop usosvc & net stop wuauserv & del %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution\DataStore\Logs\edb.log & del /f /q C:\ProgramData\USOPrivate\UpdateStore\* & net start usosvc & net start wuauserv & UsoClient.exe RefreshSettings' -Verb runAs"

The settings ⚙️ menu updates automatically to show a blank update log.

Summary

Resetting update logs through an administrative command line wipes the visible history instantly. Installed system patches remain fully intact and operational despite the cleared record.