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Why Is Call of Duty Not Updating? Troubleshooting Common Issues

The frustration of a game failing to update can be a major buzzkill, especially when it’s a highly anticipated title like Call of Duty. There are a multitude of reasons why your game might be stuck in update limbo, ranging from internet connectivity issues to game corruption. This article breaks down the most common culprits and provides actionable solutions to get you back in the game. In short, Call of Duty might not be updating due to a combination of factors including poor internet connection, game server issues, insufficient storage space, or problems with the game files themselves.

Common Reasons Behind Update Failures

Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s crucial to understand the landscape of potential issues. Here are some key reasons why your Call of Duty game might refuse to update:

Network Connection Problems

Unstable or Slow Internet: A weak or inconsistent Wi-Fi or internet connection is the most common reason updates fail. Downloading large game files requires a stable and reliable connection.
Restricted Bandwidth: If other devices on your network are streaming or downloading heavily, your Call of Duty update might be throttled.
DNS Server Issues: DNS server errors can prevent your device from connecting to the Call of Duty servers, leading to update failures.

Game and Device Specific Issues

Game Corruption: Corrupted game files can hinder updates. This can happen during the download process or due to system errors.
Insufficient Storage: If your console or PC does not have enough storage space, the update process will likely fail.
Background Processes: Running multiple apps or other games simultaneously while updating Call of Duty can severely slow down the process due to limited system resources.
Outdated Console or Game Launcher: Outdated system software on your console or PC’s game launcher (like Steam or Battle.net) can interfere with updates.
Cache Issues: Temporary files and browsing history can sometimes interfere with game processes, including updates.
Game Launcher Permissions: If your game launcher lacks administrative privileges, it may be unable to complete the update process.

Server-Side Problems

Game Server Downtime or Overload: If the Call of Duty game servers are experiencing downtime or are overloaded with traffic, you might be unable to update.
Update Errors: Sometimes there can be errors during the update’s distribution which could prevent you from getting the latest files.

Troubleshooting Steps

Now that we’ve covered the potential causes, let’s look at how to fix them. These troubleshooting steps cover a wide range of scenarios:

Check Your Internet Connection:
- Ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi or ethernet connection. Try restarting your router and modem.
- Run a speed test to confirm your connection speed is sufficient.
- Try using an ethernet cable if you are currently using Wi-Fi, this can increase the stability and speed of your connection.
Restart Your Device: A simple restart of your console (Xbox, PlayStation) or PC can often resolve temporary glitches.
Clear Cache: On consoles, clear the cache by powering down completely and then restarting. On PC, clear temporary files, browsing history, and cookies.
Free Up Storage Space: Make sure you have sufficient storage space on your hard drive or SSD for the update.
Close Background Processes: Close all other running applications, games, or programs that may be consuming system resources during the update.
Update Your Console and Game Launcher: Make sure both your console’s system software and your game launcher are running the latest versions.
Run Game Launcher as Administrator: If you’re on PC, always run your game launcher as an administrator by right-clicking on the launcher icon and selecting “Run as administrator.”
Change DNS Server: Consider changing your DNS server settings to a public one like Google’s (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4).
Check for Game Server Status: Visit the official Call of Duty support page or use a server status website to check if there is any downtime.
Pause and Resume the Update: Sometimes pausing and resuming the update process can help it progress.
Delete and Reinstall: If all else fails, delete the game and then redownload and reinstall it.
Check for Game-Specific Errors: Look for specific error codes associated with the failed update and research solutions for these.

FAQs: More on Why Call of Duty Won’t Update

To help you further, here are 15 frequently asked questions related to Call of Duty update issues:

1. Why is my Call of Duty update taking so long?

A large file size, combined with a possibly restricted or slow internet connection are the primary reasons why your Call of Duty update could take a long time.

2. Why is my Call of Duty stuck on “Checking for Update”?

This issue can often be attributed to a DNS server error. Your device might be unable to connect to the game server due to a bad DNS range. Switching to a different DNS like Google can often resolve this problem.

3. Why is my MW2 update downloading so slowly?

Overmuch background apps and games consuming network bandwidth, along with the size of the update, can cause your MW2 update to download slowly.

4. Why is my Call of Duty update downloading so slow?

Background processes on your device, a restricted internet connection, and the large size of the update are typical reasons for slow Call of Duty downloads.

5. Why does MW2 take so long to load?

Cache and temporary files can cause slow load times. Clearing these files on your console or PC can help speed things up.

6. Why is CoD not loading?

Make sure the game launcher (Steam, Battle.net) you’re using to launch the game is run with administrative privileges. Also check for issues with your internet connection.

7. How do I update my Call of Duty mobile version?

Open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android), go to your account, find Call of Duty: Mobile, and tap UPDATE.

8. Is Warzone 2 down right now?

Check the game’s official support pages or third-party websites like DownDetector for the status of game servers.

9. How do you fix a stuck update on Xbox?

Restart your Xbox, try a power cycle, reset the console, check your network connection, try an offline update, free up space, and ultimately, as a last resort, perform a factory reset.

10. What should I do if my Xbox game won’t update?

Try deleting and reinstalling the game. In Xbox settings find the game and delete it, and then redownload it.

11. How do I update COD on Xbox?

Go to Xbox Settings > System > Updates and select “Keep my games & apps up to date” to enable automatic updates.

12. What is the current version of Call of Duty?

The most recent title is Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III which was released in November 2023.

13. Can I play COD while it updates?

You can play offline modes (like story mode), but online features like multiplayer and the store will be unavailable until the update is complete.

14. Why is MW2 not working on Xbox One?

Verify that your Xbox One has an active and stable internet connection by using the network settings in the Xbox menu.

15. Why is my MW2 stuck on installing?

Quit the game completely and relaunch, try powering off your console, wait a few minutes, and then reboot and try again.

By systematically working through these solutions, you should be able to identify the root cause of your Call of Duty update problems and get back into action. Remember to always keep your software updated, your connection stable, and your console or PC optimized for peak performance.

Why is Call of Duty not updating?