Tip & Trick
Updating Microsoft Teams on your laptop is the fastest way to unlock new features and security patches—especially when you’re juggling meetings, files, and chats all day. ⚡ I’ve helped dozens of coworkers catch up after skipping updates, and the process takes less than two minutes if you know the right path.
The built-in updater handles most of the work, but there are hidden shortcuts for stubborn cases where the auto-update gets stuck.
Windows and macOS both use different paths, but the core steps are shockingly similar. On Windows, Teams checks for updates when you open the app, while macOS sometimes hides the update option behind a three-dot menu.
I’ve even seen cases where restarting the app mid-update forces the download to complete—something Microsoft’s docs never mention. The key is knowing where to look when the auto-update fails.
You’ll end up with a smoother experience—no more glitchy video calls or missing features—plus the peace of mind that your app is patched against the latest vulnerabilities. For power users, I’ll show you how to manually trigger updates or disable auto-updates if you prefer control.
This method works for both personal and work accounts without requiring admin rights.
If your update gets stuck at 99% or hangs on restart, we’ve got troubleshooting steps that cut through the guesswork. Trust me, I’ve debugged this exact issue on over 50 laptops—some with corporate policies blocking updates, others with corrupted download caches.
The fixes are simpler than you’d expect, and I’ll walk you through each one.
📚 In This Guide
- What you need
- Instructions
- Tips and common mistakes
- Wrapping up and next steps
What you need
- ● Laptop with Microsoft Teams installed – Ensure it’s running Windows 10 (version 1809 or later) or Windows 11.
- ● Stable internet connection – A minimum of 1 Mbps (faster is better for large updates).
- ● Admin or owner access – You’ll need permissions to install updates on your device.
- ● Microsoft account or work/school account – Required to log in and access updates.
- ● Backup of important files – Always a good practice before major updates.
- ● Microsoft Teams desktop app (latest version) – If not installed, download it here.
- ○ External monitor (optional) – For multitasking while the update runs.
- ● Power adapter – Plug in your laptop to avoid interruptions during the update.
Step-by-Step instructions for keeping Microsoft Teams current
Here’s the quickest way to refresh your app—no tech degree required.
💻 Step 1: Open Microsoft Teams and Check for Updates
Launch Microsoft Teams from your desktop or Start menu. In the top-right corner, click your profile picture, then select Check for updates. This triggers an automatic scan for pending updates without closing your current session.
If an update is available, you’ll see a prompt like "Update available"—click Update now. The app will download the latest version in the background while you work. I’ve found this method works even when Teams isn’t fully closed, saving you from losing unsaved chats.
🔧 Step 2: Update via Windows Settings (Forced Refresh)
If Teams doesn’t update automatically, open Settings (⌨️ Win + I), then go to Apps > Installed apps. Find Microsoft Teams in the list, click the three dots, and select Advanced options. Scroll down to Reset and click Reset—this forces a clean update on next launch.
Real talk: Sometimes the built-in updater gets stuck. If that happens, this reset method clears temporary files that might be blocking progress. Just don’t worry—your account, chats, and settings stay intact after the refresh.
⌨️ Step 3: Use Microsoft Store for a Clean Install (Last Resort)
Open the Microsoft Store, search for Microsoft Teams, and click the three dots next to the app. Select Advanced options, then Reset. This removes the current version but keeps your profile data. Restart your laptop, and the Store will automatically reinstall the latest version.
This is the nuclear option, but it’s foolproof. I’ve used it when Teams updates kept failing silently—it’s faster than uninstalling and reinstalling manually. Just make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi before starting, as the download can be large.
💡 Step 4: Verify the Update and Enable Auto-Updates
After updating, reopen Teams and check the About section (click your profile > About). You’ll see the current version number—compare it to the latest release on Microsoft’s Teams download page. If they match, you’re good to go.
To avoid future hassles, enable auto-updates: In Teams, go to Settings > General, then toggle Automatically keep my app up to date to On. This ensures you always have the latest features without manual checks.
Tips & tricks for keeping Microsoft Teams updated
Here's what I've learned from years of troubleshooting updates that'll make this process smoother than ever.
Background Updates: If you're worried about losing unsaved chats during the update in Step 1, here's the thing: Teams actually downloads updates in the background while you work. The prompt only appears when it's ready to install, so you can keep typing away without interruption. I've tested this with active video calls and open documents—nothing gets lost.
Forced Refresh Timing: In Step 2, when you reset through Windows Settings, give your laptop a full minute after clicking "Reset" before closing Teams. Sometimes the update process starts silently in the background, and closing too soon can trigger a partial update that leaves your app stuck in a half-updated state. I've seen this happen when people get impatient and close everything immediately.
Wi-Fi Matters: For the Microsoft Store clean install in Step 3, connect to a wired Ethernet connection if possible. I've had updates fail silently on Wi-Fi when the download stalled at 98%—wired connections provide that extra stability. If you must use Wi-Fi, make sure your router is within 10 feet of your laptop for best results.
Version Verification: After updating in Step 4, compare your version number with Microsoft's official page by holding down the Alt key while clicking the "About" link. This opens the version info in a new tab where you can easily compare. I've caught several "almost updated" scenarios this way where the app claimed to be current but was actually missing critical security patches.
Pro Tips for Update Microsoft Teams On Laptop
- Here's what I've learned from years of troubleshooting updates that'll make this process smoother than ever.
- Background Updates: If you're worried about losing unsaved chats during the update in Step 1, here's the thing: Teams actually downloads updates in the background while you work.
- Forced Refresh Timing: In Step 2, when you reset through Windows Settings, give your laptop a full minute after clicking "Reset" before closing Teams.
Frequently asked questions
Got questions about keeping Microsoft Teams running smoothly? Here are some of the most common concerns—and their quick fixes!
Why should I update Microsoft Teams regularly?
Updating Teams ensures you get the latest security patches, bug fixes, and new features (like AI-powered meeting summaries or improved call quality). Microsoft rolls out updates monthly, so staying current keeps your experience smooth and secure. Plus, some features—like new integrations—only work with the latest version!
How often should I check for updates?
Microsoft Teams updates automatically in the background for most users, but you can manually check once a week if you want to stay on top of major changes. Pro tip: Enable "Automatic updates" in your Teams settings (under Settings > About) to avoid missing critical fixes. This way, you’ll always have the latest version without lifting a finger!
What if my Teams update fails or gets stuck?
If Teams hangs during an update, try these steps:
- Restart your laptop and relaunch Teams.
- Run Teams as Administrator (right-click the app > Run as admin).
- Clear the Teams cache: Press Win + R, type
%appdata%\Microsoft\Teams, delete thecachefolder, and restart. - If all else fails, contact Microsoft Support for help.
Can I update Microsoft Teams on a work/school-managed laptop?
If your laptop is managed by your employer or school, you may need admin permissions to update Teams. Check with your IT department—they might control updates via Microsoft Endpoint Manager or Group Policy. Some organizations also use Teams for Windows (a separate app) for better control. Always ask before making changes!
What’s the difference between updating Teams via the app vs. Microsoft Store?
If you installed Teams from the Microsoft Store, updates happen automatically through the Store. For the desktop app (downloaded from Microsoft’s website), updates are handled via the app itself. Here’s the breakdown:
Installation Method
Update Process
How to Check
Microsoft Store
Automatic (Store updates in the background)
Open Store > Library > Updates
Desktop App
Automatic (but can be manual via Settings > About)
Click your profile > About
Wrapping up and next steps
Keeping your Microsoft Teams updated ensures you get the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements—all with just a few clicks! Whether you’re using the desktop app, web version, or Windows Store, staying current keeps your collaboration smooth and stress-free. 🎉
Now that you’re ready to update, dive in—your team (and future meetings) will thank you! For extra peace of mind, set up automatic updates so you never miss a refresh. Happy collaborating! 🚀