How to Clear Windows Update History in Windows 11

Windows 11 automatically downloads and installs updates to keep your computer running smoothly. These include security patches, drivers, and new features. You can view your update history to see exactly what has been installed and when. Sometimes, you might want to wipe this list clean.

Why clear your update history?

Clearing your history helps keep your settings menu tidy. It is also a useful step if you are troubleshooting update errors and want a fresh start.

What happens when you are done?

Once you finish these steps, the list of previously installed updates in your settings menu will be completely removed. Your actual installed updates remain safely on your computer.

Note: You must be signed in as an administrator to perform these steps.

Reference: Windows 11, version 24H2 update history – Microsoft Support

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:

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"

You’ll notice that Update history is cleared.

Summary

Clearing your Windows Update history is a quick way to reset your update logs. By using the command line as an administrator, you can wipe the history list instantly. This does not uninstall your updates; it simply clears the record of them from your view.