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FIX: Windows 10/11 update error 0x800ffff
5 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Windows 10updates are mandatorily distributed, which implies that you can pause them but not avoid them permanently. Along with that, they’re prone to various malfunctions which comes in large array oferrors.
One of the common updateerrorsgoes by the code 0x800ffff.
When thiserroroccurs, users are unable to download and install latest updates, starting with cumulative minor patches and reaching to major updates.
In case you’re experiencing thiserrorinWindows 10, make sure to check the steps we provided below and address it properly.
Solving these Windows update issues is too complicated? Choose an easier way with these tools!
How to fix Windows Update error 0x800ffff in Windows 10
Table of contents:
Solution 1 – Run Update troubleshooter
First things first. When something like this occurs, the initial step should be running the dedicated Update Troubleshooter. And the simplest one, for that matter.
Only once you concur that the update issue isn’t resolved this way, you can turn to additional steps.
The aforementioned troubleshooter should reset the update halt by resetting some of the update-related processes. Here’s how to run it in a few simple steps:
Looking for the best troubleshooting tool? Here are our top picks.
Solution 2 – Temporarily disable antivirus
In the modern state of the internet, an antivirus is a must. However, there are a lot of reports about an antivirus solution blocking theWindows Updatefeature for certain users.
The main suspects are McAfee and Norton, but that tends to change since most of the other antimalware solutions can inflict the same issues.
We wouldn’t advise removing the antivirus completely, but rather disabling it for the time being until the updates are successfully distributed and installed.
Why you should disable McAfee before updating Windows 10? Find out from our handy guide!
Solution 3 – Run SFC scan
Due to the corruption of the essential system files, the updates (which are an inclusive part of the latest Windows iteration) will get blocked.
In order to address this and fix possible faults in the system integrity, you should run SFC. System File Checker is the right tool for the job and here’s how to run it:
Solution 4 – Use DISM
When SFC falls short, the DISM should take its place. The ”Deployment Image Servicing and Management” tool is, just like SFC, run through the elevated command console.
Once you run it, it’ll check for the corruption of the system files and restore them to their default values. By doing so, it’ll fix your updateerror.
Here’s how to run DISM in the Command Prompt:
Epic guide alert! Everything you need to know about working with DISM.
Solution 5 – Reset Update services
Resetting update services can be done in various ways but we reckon that the one which includes batch script is the most rewarding. It’s simple to run and it’ll save you a lot of time, additionally.
If you want to get accustomed to creating this batch script on your own, make sure to check the steps provided in thisarticle.
Solution 6 – Install update manually
Finally, if none of the previous steps fixed the ”0x800ffff” error, there’s still an alternative.
Namely, if you’re certain which exact update is causing the issue, you can acquire it manually and avoid theerrorat hand.
Follow these instructions to download and install the troublesome update and fix the issue:
What to do if Windows update won’t install? Check out our handy guide!
That’s it. Don’t forget to share alternative solutions or questions regarding the ones presented in the comments section below. We look forward to hearing from you.
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More about the topics:windows 10,windows 10 update
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.