How to fix the Windows update error?

A

AlexExpert

Member
I'm trying to update my Windows laptop, and every time I try to install the new updates, there is an error. Is there a fix for this? I can't seem to find the cause.
 
Windows Update errors are very common. It is usually caused by things like a corrupted update cache, not enough free disk space, a stuck or crashed update service, corrupted system files, or sometimes just a flaky internet connection interrupting the download. Occasionally it's an issue with antivirus software or a driver not working.

Good news is the fix is basically the same regardless of the cause:
  1. Restart your PC first
  2. Run Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update.
  3. Check you've got at least 10- 20 GB of free space.
  4. Restart the Windows Update service
  5. Clear the cache in C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download, then restart the service.
  6. If you are still stuck, run "sfc /scannow" in admin Command Prompt.
Make sure to reboot after each step and try again.
 
I had the same Windows Update error, and this fixed it for me! Restarted my PC, ran the built-in troubleshooter, cleared the cache, and restarted the Windows Update service. Updates finally installed without a hitch. If you're stuck too, definitely give these steps a try.
 
Here are some things I tried that I think would work for you. So:
  • You can first try to restart your computer. It sounds basic, but a simple restart clears out temporary files and background processes that might be blocking the update. Make sure to actually click "Restart" and not just "Shut Down."
  • If it doesn't work with a restart, the next best thing you can do is check your storage space. Updates will fail if your hard drive is full. Check your C: drive to make sure you have at least 15 to 20 GB of free space.
 
There are multiple errors that pop up when updating Windows. One of them has the exact error code (like 0x80070002), which helps pinpoint the exact problem. I think the best thing you can try to do is run a Troubleshooter.
Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and click Run next to Windows Update. Let me know if this works.
 
If Windows Update doesn't work, I usually go with the simplest ones first. I would reboot the computer, verify that it is connected to the internet, clear up space if necessary and go into the troubleshooter. If it is a similar error that repeats itself, I'd record the number and then search for a more specific solution, instead of trying to tweak random settings.
 
Mohit92 said:
Windows Update errors are very common. It is usually caused by things like a corrupted update cache, not enough free disk space, a stuck or crashed update service, corrupted system files, or sometimes just a flaky internet connection interrupting the download. Occasionally it's an issue with antivirus software or a driver not working.

Good news is the fix is basically the same regardless of the cause:
  1. Restart your PC first
  2. Run Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update.
  3. Check you've got at least 10- 20 GB of free space.
  4. Restart the Windows Update service
  5. Clear the cache in C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download, then restart the service.
  6. If you are still stuck, run "sfc /scannow" in admin Command Prompt.
Make sure to reboot after each step and try again.
Click to expand...


Whenever Windows Update throws an error, I always run the built-in troubleshooter first.

Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters, then click Run next to Windows Update.

It actually fixes minor hiccups more often than you'd think.

If that doesn't budge it and you're getting stubborn codes like 0x80070002, your download cache is probably messed up.

Open Command Prompt as admin and stop the update services:
net stop wuauserv
net stop bits

Next, rename the glitchy cache folder by typing:
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old

Then start the services back up:
net start wuauserv
net start bits

Keep checking for updates after restarting the PC, if the issue still persists. That usually does the trick!
 
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