How to Fix Windows Update Errors Permanently (Windows 10 & 11 Guide)
Windows Update errors are among the most frustrating problems users face. Updates may fail repeatedly, get stuck at a percentage, or display confusing error codes like:
- 0x80070002
- 0x800f081f
- 0x80073712
- 0x8024401c
These errors can prevent important security patches from installing and may lead to system instability over time.
The good news? Most Windows Update errors are repairable using structured troubleshooting steps.
This guide explains how to fix update failures properly — and permanently.
Why Windows Update Errors Happen
Corrupted Update Cache
Damaged System Files
Broken Update Services
Low Disk Space
Network Interruptions
Step 1 – Restart and Basic Checks
Restart Your PC
Check Disk Space
Settings → System → Storage
Ensure at least 15–20 GB of free space for major updates.
Check Internet Stability
Step 2 – Run DISM and SFC
Run DISM First
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Wait for completion.
Then Run SFC
Restart after both scans finish.
This resolves a large percentage of update-related issues.
Step 3 – Reset Windows Update Components
Stop Windows Update Services
net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
net stop cryptsvc
net stop msiserver
Rename Update Folders
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
This forces Windows to create fresh update folders.
Restart Services
net start bits
net start cryptsvc
net start msiserver
Restart your computer and check for updates again.
Step 4 – Use Windows Update Troubleshooter
Go to:
Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters → Windows Update
The troubleshooter can automatically detect:
- Service configuration issues
- Update database corruption
- Misconfigured settings
Step 5 – Install Updates Manually
If a specific update repeatedly fails:
- Note the KB number (e.g., KB5030211)
- Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog
- Download the correct version
- Install manually
This bypasses the standard update mechanism.
Fixing Common Error Codes
Error 0x80070002
Resetting SoftwareDistribution typically fixes it.
Error 0x800f081f
Run DISM with RestoreHealth.
Error 0x80073712
DISM repair is required.
When Updates Still Fail
Perform an In-Place Upgrade
Download the Windows Media Creation Tool and choose:
Upgrade this PC now
This reinstalls Windows while keeping files and applications.
It replaces update components entirely.
How Fixyfier Simplifies Windows Update Repair
Manually resetting update components requires:
- Multiple command-line entries
- Administrative access
- Correct order of execution
Fixyfier provides structured access to Windows repair utilities, allowing users to:
- Run system integrity scans
- Access update-related maintenance tools
- Perform Quick Fix routines
- Simplify repair workflows
It does not modify Windows update mechanisms — it centralizes access to official repair processes.
This reduces user error and saves time.
Preventing Future Windows Update Errors
Maintain Adequate Free Space
Avoid Forced Shutdowns During Updates
Run Maintenance Periodically
Keep Drivers Updated
Final Thoughts
Windows Update errors can be frustrating — but they are rarely permanent.
By:
- Repairing system corruption (DISM → SFC)
- Resetting update components
- Ensuring stable system conditions
You can resolve most update failures without reinstalling Windows.
Structured troubleshooting is the key to permanent fixes.



