My laptop won't allow me to check for updates or install them error code 80072efe

A REBOOT is simply the act of turning the machine OFF and ON again.

Can I assume what you really mean is a reinstall or recovery ?

If so simply boot to your recovery discs and follow the on screen prompts.

Which laptop you are using? Usually the laptop has a on/off button on the keyboard there.

Before reinstalling or recovering your system, why not try and fix what's broken?

The error; as described by yourself, is indicative of one of the following:

1) Windows Category Files are corrupted.
2) You're behind a corporate firewall/proxy that prevents updating.

Follow this link (Microsoft Technet forum) to troubleshoot.
Error Code. 80072EFE.