Share this article

Improve this guide

Windows Update Error 0x80070026: Fixed

5 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

Share this article

Improve this guide

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more

Key notes

TheWindows update error code80070026 usually appears inWindows 10when you try to install the latest updates.

A possible reason as to why you get this error code is the fact that yourC:Usersfolder was changed to another directory, likeF:Usersresulting in potentialsystem errorswith theWindows Updatefeature.

Luckily, there are a few very easy methods to fix error code 80070026 and resume your everyday work. So just follow the steps listed below in the order they are described and you’ll have your operating system up and running in no time.

How can I fix the Windows Update error 0x80070026?

How can I fix the Windows Update error 0x80070026?

1. Delete the content of the Temp folder

Note:Before attempting the steps above backup call your important data like files and folders.

2. Copy the $$PendingFiles folder

Note: If some of the steps listed for the second solution are not available on yourWindows 10device, skip this solution completely and go to the next one.

3. Check your antivirus

Quite frequently, your antivirus prevents you from updating your computer. To check if yourantivirus toolis the culprit, temporarily disable it and then hit theCheck for updatesbutton.

Many times, disabling your antivirus won’t be enough so you will need to uninstall it completely. If this proved helpful, that means you should consider switching to another solution.

There are numerous valuableantivirus programs available, and many of them are designed with unique and interesting features for each user’s needs.

4. Run DISM

See if yourWindows Updatefeature is working correctly.

5. Refresh your PC

6. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

If the issue persists and you want to take a short break from any complex troubleshooting solutions, then you can run Windows’ built-in update troubleshooter.

This useful tool can help you fix general update issues so that you can finish installing the latest OS updates on your PC.

If you’re runningWindows 10, go toSettings > Update & Security > Troubleshooterand run the update troubleshooter as shown in the screenshot below.

If you’re running Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, you can launch the Update troubleshooter from Control Panel.

TypetroubleshootinContol Panelwindows, open the tool and selectView Allto list all the troubleshooting tools. Locate and run the Update troubleshooter.

7. Reset Windows Updates components

8. Install updates manually

If theWindows Updateservice is still not working, try to install the problematic updates manually.

For example, if you’re trying to install the latest hardware driver updates, go to the manufacturer’s website and get the updates from there.

If you’re trying to install the latest Windows patches, go toMicrosoft’s Update Catalog, enter the KB number of the respective update(s) and hit the download button.

If you’ve carefully followed the methods above, you now have a workingWindows Updatefeature on your device.

If you need further assistance, you can write to us in the comments section of the page situated below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

More about the topics:windows 10 fix,Windows 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.

User forum

1 messages

Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes

Comment*

Name*

Email*

Commenting as.Not you?

Save information for future comments

Comment

Δ

Ivan Jenic

Windows Hardware Expert

Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.