Windows updates are essential for security, stability, and new features, but encountering a Windows Update error code can be frustrating. These errors prevent updates from installing, leaving your system vulnerable or outdated.
Fortunately, most Windows update errors are common and fixable, often caused by software conflicts, corrupted files, or network issues. In this guide, we’ll explain the most frequent Windows update error codes, their causes, and step-by-step solutions.
Why Windows Updates Fail
Before diving into fixes, it’s helpful to understand why updates fail:
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Corrupted Update Files: Partial downloads or corrupted files can prevent installation.
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Insufficient Disk Space: Updates require free storage to install successfully.
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Software Conflicts: Antivirus, firewall, or third-party apps can interfere with updates.
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Network Issues: Unstable internet can cause download or verification failures.
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Hardware or Driver Incompatibility: Outdated drivers or hardware issues can block updates.
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System File Corruption: Damaged Windows system files can trigger update errors.
Most error codes provide clues for targeted troubleshooting.
Common Windows Update Error Codes and Fixes
1. Error Code 0x80070057
Cause: Corrupted update files or incorrect settings.
Fix:
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Open Command Prompt (Admin) → Run
sfc /scannowto repair system files -
Clear Windows Update cache:
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Stop Windows Update service (
services.msc) -
Delete contents of
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download -
Restart the service
-
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Retry the update
2. Error Code 0x80240034
Cause: Download failure or interrupted update process.
Fix:
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Ensure stable internet connection
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Temporarily disable antivirus/firewall
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Run Windows Update Troubleshooter:
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Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot → Additional troubleshooters → Windows Update
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3. Error Code 0x800F0922
Cause: Insufficient system reserved partition or VPN blocking connection.
Fix:
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Disconnect VPN or proxy
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Ensure at least 500 MB free in System Reserved Partition (use Disk Management)
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Retry update
4. Error Code 0x80073712
Cause: Corrupted Windows Update system files.
Fix:
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Open Command Prompt (Admin) → Run:
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DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth -
Then run
sfc /scannow
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Restart Windows Update service
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Retry update
5. Error Code 0x80070020
Cause: Another program is interfering with the update.
Fix:
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Close all running applications
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Disable antivirus temporarily
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Retry update
6. Error Code 0x80246007
Cause: Windows Update cache issue or pending operations.
Fix:
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Stop Windows Update service
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Delete
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Downloadcontents -
Restart service and retry update
7. Error Code 0xC1900101
Cause: Driver incompatibility, common during major feature updates.
Fix:
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Update all drivers: Device Manager → Right-click → Update driver
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Disconnect external devices
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Retry the update
General Steps to Fix Most Windows Update Errors
If you encounter unknown error codes, try these universal solutions:
1. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
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Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot → Additional troubleshooters → Windows Update → Run the troubleshooter
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Follow prompts and apply recommended fixes
2. Free Up Disk Space
Updates fail if storage is low:
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Delete temporary files: Settings → System → Storage → Temporary Files
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Uninstall unused apps or move files to external storage
3. Reset Windows Update Components
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Stop services:
wuauserv,bits,cryptsvc -
Rename
SoftwareDistributionandCatroot2folders -
Restart services
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Retry update
This clears corrupted caches preventing updates.
4. Update Drivers and BIOS
Outdated drivers or BIOS versions can block updates:
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Device Manager → Update driver for key devices (graphics, network, storage)
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Check manufacturer’s website for BIOS updates
5. Use Media Creation Tool
For stubborn updates:
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Download Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft
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Select Upgrade this PC now
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This often bypasses update errors and installs updates directly
6. Check for Antivirus/Firewall Interference
Third-party security software can block updates:
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Temporarily disable antivirus/firewall
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Retry update
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Re-enable security after completion
7. Repair Corrupted System Files
Use DISM and SFC tools:
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Command Prompt (Admin):
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DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth -
sfc /scannow
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This repairs damaged system files that may prevent updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why do I keep getting Windows Update errors?
A1: Common causes include corrupted update files, network issues, low disk space, or driver incompatibility.
Q2: Can I skip an error code update?
A2: Skipping updates may leave your PC vulnerable. Fix the error to ensure security and stability.
Q3: Does Windows Update Troubleshooter fix all errors?
A3: It fixes most common issues, but advanced errors may require manual intervention.
Q4: Is it safe to use the Media Creation Tool?
A4: Yes, it’s an official Microsoft tool for installing or repairing updates safely.
Q5: Can antivirus software cause update errors?
A5: Yes. Temporarily disabling it often resolves conflicts with Windows Update.
Final Thoughts
Windows Update error codes can be frustrating, but most issues are fixable with step-by-step troubleshooting. From clearing corrupted files and resetting Windows Update components to updating drivers and using the Media Creation Tool, these solutions help ensure your system stays secure, stable, and up to date.
Regular maintenance, sufficient storage, and keeping drivers updated prevent future update errors and ensure smooth Windows operation.