Apparently MS has released (yet another) update/patch for Windows Update Client and Servicing Stack that reportedly aims to address the unusually long time to check/process updates in Windows 7 (and Server 2008 R2). Anecdotally there appears to be a couple positive reports that it actually works (this time). It can be obtained as part of an update rollup:
June 2016 Update Rollup
Haven't tested it myself but intend to. Note: Prior to installing the rollup, change Windows Update to "never check for updates". Then re-enable updates checking AFTER the rollup is installed (after reboot).
June 2016 Update Rollup
Haven't tested it myself but intend to. Note: Prior to installing the rollup, change Windows Update to "never check for updates". Then re-enable updates checking AFTER the rollup is installed (after reboot).
Last edited: