A Windows Reboot is Pending from A Previous Installation [Fix]

A simple reboot could fix the issue

How to

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by Srishti Sisodia 

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Key notes

  • This error could be caused by failed system updates or a pending reboot. 
  • To fix this, first reboot your computer and then follow the steps given below.
a windows reboot is pending from a previous installation

Many users have reported that they encountered a Windows reboot from a previous installation is pending error while trying to install or upgrade Microsoft Exchange.

Usually, this issue is fixed by restarting your computer. However, if you still get this error, there is a workaround. 

This guide will explain the steps to fix the problem right after discussing the causes. Let’s start! 

What causes the reboot from a previous installation is pending error on Exchange 2013?

There are several reasons why you got this error while installing Microsoft Exchange, some of which are mentioned here:

  • Pending system updates – The pending system updates could cause the error, so to fix this, make sure you install all the pending updates. 
  • Pending restart – You must restart your computer after making significant changes in the system settings or installing an update. If a restart is pending, you may get this error.
  • Unsuccessful server restart – If your server didn’t restart properly while installing or upgrading Exchange, you could see this error message.

How can I fix the reboot from a previous installation is pending error on Exchange 2013?

Before engaging in advanced troubleshooting steps, you should consider performing the following checks:

  • First, make sure there are no pending updates.
  • Reboot your computer.
  • Restart the server.
  • Before making any changes to the registries, it is essential to back up entries. To do that, go to File, then click Export. Finally, save the .reg file at a desired location.

1. Delete PendingFileRenameOperations

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window.REGEDIT RUN COMMAND
  2. Type regedit and press Enter to open Registry Editor.
  3. Follow this path: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session ManagerPendingFileRenameOperations- a windows reboot is pending from a previous installation
  4. Locate and delete PendingFileRenameOperations.

2. Modify the Value data for UpdateExeVolatile

  1. Go to Registry Editor.
  2. Follow this path: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Updates
  3. Locate and double-click UpdateExeVolatile and change the Value data to 0.Microsoft Updates -a windows reboot is pending from a previous installation
  4. Click OK. 
  5. Restart your computer to complete the process, and try to install Microsoft Exchange.

So, these steps you need to follow to fix a windows reboot are pending from a previous installation. Please restart the system and rerun the setup to see if the fix has worked.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to let us know in the comments below.

More about the topics: Exchange 2013, Microsoft Exchange

Srishti Sisodia

Srishti Sisodia Shield

Windows Software Expert

Srishti Sisodia is an electronics engineer and writer with a passion for technology. She has extensive experience exploring the latest technological advancements and sharing her insights through informative blogs. Her diverse interests bring a unique perspective to her work, and she approaches everything with commitment, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. That's why she's part of Windows Report's Reviewers team, always willing to share the real-life experience with any software or hardware product. She's also specialized in Azure, cloud computing, and AI.

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