Windows update is pretty significant for the OS as it comes with security patches that keep you safe online and offline as well. Such updates not only ensure safety but also let you experience additional feature enhancements moreover improve PC performance. The process of getting an update in Windows 11 and 10 is independent if you haven’t changed the related default settings earlier. But oftentimes, the procedure gets stuck in the middle due to some error codes.
Error 0x80070003 generally occurs when the Windows update fails to install. Though the exact reason behind this Windows issue is yet to be known, there are some potential causes that are often found to be culprit. In most cases, the incorrect status of update related services causes such an error. Additionally, missing update files, malware infection, corrupted system components, old Spupdsvc.exe file, and incorrect time zone can prompt the same issue.
Windows 11 and 10 update Error 0x80070003
Here is how to fix Windows 11 or 10 update Error 0x80070003 –
1] Download Servicing Stack Update manually
For any update to install successfully Windows 10 and 11 requires having SSU already installed. So before proceeding ahead to the next methods install the Servicing stack update and check if the error is fixed.
- Press – Windows + I.
- Click – System.
- From the left, select – About.
- Note down the System type present on the right-hand side.
Windows 11 users, open Settings=> Choose About from left to check System type.
- After that, visit the official webpage of update catalog.
- Click the search bar and type in the KB number of the Servicing Stack update.
- Hit – Enter.
- Look for the Servicing Stack Update that matches the system type you noted.
- Click Download present next to the desired KB number.
- Double-click the downloaded item and install it following on-screen instructions.
- Restart Windows and check if the error still exists.
2] Run Windows Update troubleshooter to fix 0x80070003
To fix any kind of update error, Microsoft offers a troubleshooter that scans the full system to diagnose the real cause. Furthermore, it put forward automatic fix to resolve the error that you are getting while downloading or installing the new patch. Before running the troubleshooter, make sure you are connected with an active internet connection and then go through the below steps –
For Windows 10
- Press – Windows + S.
- Type in – troubleshoot.
- Hit – Enter.
- From the right-pane, click – Additional troubleshooters.
- Select – Windows update.
- Click – Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow on-screen guidelines if any.
- When the utility suggests a resolution, click – Apply this fix.
- Close the troubleshooter and check for update error 0x80070003.
For Windows 11
- Press – Windows + I.
- Move to the right of appearing Settings page.
- Scroll down to find – Troubleshoot.
- Once you get it, select the same.
- From next page, click – Other troubleshooters.
- Hit – Run set beside Windows update.
3] Check the Windows update related services
Windows update service runs in the background and allows the system to download and install new patches automatically. Some other services like BITS, RPC helps in this procedure too. To get any update error-free, these services must run properly. Here are the steps to check the same –
- Press – Windows key.
- Type – services.
- Hit – Enter.
- From Services window, double-click – Windows Update.
- Set the Startup type to Automatic.
- If the service is not running, click – Start.
- Shift to – Log on tab.
- Click the radio button set before Local System account.
- Make sure the checkbox of Allow service to interact with desktop is unchecked.
- Click Apply and then OK.
- Do the exact same for Background Intelligent Transfer Service, Event Log, and Remote Procedure Call (RPC) services too.
4] Reset Spupdsvc.exe folder
Spupdsvc.exe is a genuine executable file from Microsoft and a part of RunOnce service. When a new patch becomes available, another process gets a notification and the system adds a RunOnce entry to the registry for spupdsvc.exe. This happens to perform necessary updates to Windows PC. The process is executed when the device restarts and the user logs on. If the system finds anything unusual with Spupdsvc.exe folder, update error 0x80070003 may appear. To fix it out –
- Click – Start icon.
- Type – cmd.
- Press – Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
- When a User Account Control shows up, click – Yes.
- In the elevated Command Prompt, insert the following –
cmd /c ren %systemroot%\System32\Spupdsvc.exe Spupdsvc.old
- Hit – Enter.
- Restart the device.
5] Restart Windows update services to fix error 0x80070003
As we said earlier, Windows update service is pretty crucial as it ensures the smooth functioning of the update process. After downloading an update, those files are being saved in the Software distribution folder for the time being. Sometimes if something wrong happens during the installation of update files, many of us try to download the same file again and again. As a result, they conflict with the existing one and end up causing update error 0x80070003. In order to fix the issue, you will have to restart Windows update service moreover replace the current Software Distribution folder with a fresh one. Here is how to proceed –
- Open Command Prompt as admin.
- In the prompt, insert the bellow command one after another and hit Enter after each one –
net stop wuauserv
ren c:\windows\SoftwareDistribution softwaredistribution.old
net start wuauserv
exit
- Reboot the system and check for update error 0x80070003.
6] Resolve existing system corruption
System File checker resolves the existing corruption as well as recover missing components. On the other hand, DISM is used to repair and make Windows image including Windows RE, Windows Setup, and Windows PE ready. Many people reported that, after running this utility, error 0x80070003 didn’t occur anymore and they were able to install the update without a hitch.
- Press – Windows + S.
- Type in – cmd.exe.
- Opt for – Run as administrator.
- To grant access, click – Yes.
- Type in – sfc /scannow.
- Hit – Enter.
- Once the procedure hits 100%, check the report thoroughly.
- If the corruption is fixed, restart the PC.
- Else, run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth command in the same console.
- After completion of the scanning process, close Command Prompt.
- Reboot Windows PC.
7] Ensure correct Time and Date settings to resolve 0x80070003
Incorrect time zone many times gives rise to error 0x80070003 while installing a new patch. Therefore, it’s necessary to check if your current settings reflect the correct time zone. For that –
- Open Control Panel.
- Set the View by option to Category.
- Click – Clock and Region.
- From the right pane, hit – Date and Time.
- Shift to Internet Time tab.
- Click – Change settings.
- Check the box present before Synchronize with an Internet time server.
- Click – Update now.
- Hit – OK to save the changes.
8] Disable the running antivirus program
On many occasions, the antimalware program you are using get a wrong idea about the update files and consider them as a threat. For that reason, the utility blocks the updates from being downloaded. To settle down the issue, you can put the antivirus program out of action. However, don’t forget to turn it on after installing the updates successfully.
Turn Windows Defender Firewall off
- Press – Windows + S.
- Type in – firewall.cpl.
- Hit – Enter.
- From the left column, click – Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.
- Select – Turn off Windows Defender Firewall (not recommended) for both Private network settings and Public network settings.
- Click – OK.
Disable third-party antimalware program
- Click the up arrow icon from the notification bar.
- Right-click on the icon of your antivirus software.
- Choose – Disable.
- Set a period of time that decides how long the tool will remain disabled.
9] Clean boot Windows to install updates without 0x80070003
All third-party software and services are not trustworthy and often create problems on Windows 11 and 10. When we end up installing too many similar programs, they conflict with each other which gives rise to several fatal codes. Update error 0x80070003 can be a result of the same. Clean boot lets the system start with basic programs and services, as a result, you will get to know if any third-party component really causing the issue. To clean boot –
- Click – Start icon.
- Type in – MSConfig.
- Hit – Enter.
- Select the radio button set for Selective startup.
- Uncheck – Load startup items.
- Shift to – Services tab
- Check the box present next to Hide all Microsoft services.
- Select – Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab.
- Click – Open Task Manager.
- Right-click on each program that exists there and choose – Disable.
- Close Task Manager and go back to the System Configuration window.
- Click Apply first and then OK.
- Restart the PC.
Methods list
1] Download Servicing Stack Update manually
2] Run Windows Update troubleshooter
3] Check the Windows update related services
4] Reset Spupdsvc.exe folder
5] Restart Windows update services
6] Resolve existing system corruption
7] Ensure correct Time and Date settings
8] Disable the running antivirus program
9] Clean boot Windows
That’s all!!
Have you ever tried updating your system only to get interrupted? If yes then you might have encountered the most common Error 0X80070003. This is a Windows 10 update-related issue that prevents you from getting your hands on the latest update available. Moreover, you might also encounter that some update files are missing or have problems Window 10. This article will discuss how to fix Error 0X80070003 in beginner-friendly ways that are easy peasy lemon squeezy.
Table of Contents
Windows is one of the most popular operating systems in the world. Reports state that more than 1 billion active devices are operating on Windows 10 and 11. Accordingly, it is likely that you, along with many others, might be facing occasional issues such as the error 0X80070003. This error simply means that some update files are missing or have become corrupted.
What Causes This Error 0x80070003?
Although this is a pretty common error, only a few are aware of its causes. Here is what you need to know:
- Corrupted files: Damaged and inoperable files are the most common causes of error 0X80070003. In this case, all you need to do is get rid of malware and replace damaged files with healthy ones.
- Misconfiguration: Error 0X80070003 often highlights misconfigured files in your system. It can also occur if the Windows update settings are incorrectly configured and need immediate attention.
- Wobbling internet connection: If your internet connection speed is slow and unsteady then your system might fail to download all the files. Therefore, you will get a system update error unless the speed restores shortly. This may also cause windows update some files are missing issue for many users.
- Incorrect windows registry: If the system contains inorganized Windows registry entries then your OS will be unable to locate the necessary files. Consequently, your system will fail to boot correctly and display error 0X80070003.
Do you feel like the error 0X80070003 is driving you up the wall? If yes, this article will help you ease the sores effortlessly. Here are the top 10 ways to fix error 0X80070003 without frittering away your money.
Method 1: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
If you’re having issues with Windows Update and a large number of pending WU updates are failing to install with the same 0X80070003 error, we recommend running the Windows Update troubleshooter.
If you haven’t used Windows Update Troubleshooter before, it is designed to automatically identify and fix common problems. If you haven’t tried this method before, follow the steps in our guide to run Windows Update troubleshooter and have the suggested fix applied automatically.
When the repair is finished, restart your computer and run the Windows update to see if the problem has been resolved.
Method 2: Modify Registry Keys
You need to follow the below-mentioned steps to modify the registry and fix error 0X80070003 accordingly:
Note: Make a backup of registry keys to restore to previous settings in case of manual errors during modification.
1. Press the Windows + R keys simultaneously to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type regedit and click on OK to launch the Registry Editor.
3. Next, go to the following key folder path in Registry Editor.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\WIMMount
4. Click on ImagePath under the Name category and ensure that its Value data states:
system32\drivers\wimmount.sys
5. Now, open File Explorer manually or using the keyboard shortcut Windows + E keys together. paste the following in the address bar and click on OK.
C:\Windows\System32\drivers\
6. Verify the wimmount.sys file and restart your laptop.
Also Read: Fix Windows 10 Update Error 0xc1900204
Method 3: Conduct In-place Upgrade
Do you think manually upgrading the system is labor-intensive work and requires intensive technical know-how? If yes, you will be surprised to know how easy it is in reality:
1. Go to the Windows 10 download page on your browser.
2. Click on the Download too now option to download the Media Creation Tool on your system.
3. Once the download is complete, right-click on it and select the Run as administrator option.
4. Next, click Yes in the prompt and wait while the tool gets everything ready for the main action.
5. Select Accept to consent with the Microsoft License Terms and choose Upgrade this PC now option.
6. Let the download complete and wait for the Choose what to keep option to display. Select keep everything and follow the remaining instructions on your screen to proceed with the upgrade.
Method 4: Restore Old Spupdsvc.exe File
The spupdsvc.exe file is a software component of the Windows 10/11 operating system that can be found in the C:\Windows\System32 folder. It is a process file that periodically updates the Windows operating system. If Windows Update isn’t working, you can try replacing the old Spupdsvc.exe file with a new one. Here’s how to go about it:
1. Hit the Windows key, type Command Prompt, then click on Run as administrator.
2. After typing the following command, press Enter. This will replace the previous Spupdsvs.exe file with a new one:
cmd /c ren%systemroot%System32Spupdsvc.exe Spupdsvc.old Spupdsvc.old
To see if the Window update error 0X80070003 has been resolved, run a Windows update. If this did not help, proceed to the next step to fix some update files are missing or have problems Window 10.
Also Read: Fix Error Code 0xc1800103 0x90002
Method 5: Repair Corrupt System Files
SFC or the System File Checker is an in-built tool that allows you to repair corrupt files. This is how you can get things going and fix error 0X80070003. Check our guide to repair system files on Windows 10.
Method 6: Manually Install Updates
Sometimes you will face this kind of error when the file is not correctly being downloaded. So, you can manually download and install updates from Microsoft Update Catalog to fix error 0X80070003.
1. Hit the Windows + I keys simultaneously to launch Windows Settings.
2. Here, open the Update & Security setting.
3. Then, select the View update history option.
4. In the list, note down the KB number pending to be downloaded due to an error message.
5. Next, go to the Microsoft Update Catalog website.
6. Enter the (Knowledge Base) KB Number in the search bar and click on Search.
7. Select the desired Update from the given list, as shown.
Note: The complete information about the update can be viewed on the Update Details screen.
8. Click on the corresponding Download button of the particular update.
9. In the window that appears, click on the hyperlink to download the respective update.
10. Once downloaded, press Windows + E keys to open File Explorer. Double-click on the .msu file from the folder where it was saved.
11. Choose Open with Windows Update Standalone Installer (default) and click on OK.
12. Click on Yes to confirm and allow Windows to install the desired update.
Note: It may take a few minutes for the installation to be completed, and you will receive a notification.
13. Finally, reboot your PC after saving unsaved data to implement the update.
Also Read: Fix 0x80004002: No Such Interface Supported on Windows 10
Method 7: Reset Windows Update Components
The Windows Update service could be to blame for the Windows 10/11 Update error code 0x80070003. If the Windows Update troubleshooter was ineffective, restart the Windows Update service. Here’s how to go about it:
1. Launch the Run dialog box.
2. Type services.msc and hit the Enter key to open the Services window.
3. Right-click on Background Intelligent Transfer services and click on Stop from their drop-down menus.
4. Load the File Explorer and paste the following in the address bar:
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download
5. Next, press Ctrl+A to deal with all the folders at once and press delete.
6. Finally, go back to Services and right-click on Windows Update services, Cryptographic Services, and Background Intelligent Transfer. But this time, select Start from the drop-down menu and get things done.
Method 8: Disable Third-party Antivirus (If Applicable)
To your surprise, many users throughout the globe reported disarming third-party antivirus software useful to fix error 0X80070003. This prevents the software from blocking timely updates and thus, facilitating unobstructed updates. Check our guide to disable Antivirus on Windows 10.
Also Read: How to Fix Windows Update Error 80072ee2
Method 9: Reset Windows 10
It is essential to keep in mind that resetting Windows 10 uninstalls the software which did not came along initially with the device. Therefore, this must be the last resort to some update files are missing or have problems Window 10 issue. Follow the steps given in our guide to reset Windows 10 without losing data.
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- Fix 0x800f0831 Windows 10 Update Error
Error 0x80070003 has been haunting Windows 10 users for a long time. Although the terms may seem daunting and unintelligible, it is not that tricky. We have mentioned the top 10 best ways to resolve and fix error 0x80070003. We hope this article helped you grasp the basics and eliminate the issue from its root.
Error code 0x80070003 occurs when Windows is trying to install a system update. Deconstructing this error code, the initial four digits (0x800) belong to the system error code range, and the subsequent four digits (0x70003) pertain to a precise error known as (ERR_PATH_NOT_FOUND). This error code has a singular interpretation, which applies specifically when faced with challenges during the update installation process.
Main cause of this error:
As confirmed by Microsoft, The BITS (Background Intelligent Transfer Service), a service that is responsible for configuring and installing Windows update causes this error code when it fails to start properly.
Basically, error 0x80070003 during update installation indicates that Windows is encountering difficulties in locating the necessary files to properly apply the update, potentially due to issues with file paths or references.
Other reported causes of this error:
After we’ve investigated this particular issue thoroughly, it turns out that there are actually several different underlying causes that might end up causing this error code. Here’s a shortlist of culprits:
- Common WU inconsistency: Running the Windows Update Troubleshooter and applying recommended fixes can resolve issues caused by common update inconsistencies.
- Corrupted DataStore logs: Deleting the DataStore.edb file can help if corrupted references in the Windows log file are causing the problem.
- Stuck Windows Update service: Sometimes, essential services get stuck in a limbo state, obstructing update installation. Restarting necessary services through the Services screen can resolve this.
- Corrupted WU dependencies: The error might be due to corrupted Windows Update dependencies. Resetting the entire Windows Update component can address this.
- Broken Windows Update component: If the Windows Update component is malfunctioning, quick fixes include using Microsoft Update Catalog, the Media Creation Tool, or the Windows Update Assistant.
- System File corruption: Corruption affecting WU system files or associated dependencies can lead to the error. Running SFC and DISM scans or utilizing System Restore snapshots can help. In extreme cases, a clean install or repair install might be necessary.
Now that we went over every potential scenario that might end up causing the 0x80070003 error in your case, let’s go over each verified fix in order until you find the method that’s effective in your case.
1. Reset the BITS Service Configuration
As this issue is mainly caused by BITS service failing to start, it indicates that the BITS service is misconfigured. To resolve this issue, we are going to reset the BITS service and it’s configurations to default by following the instructions provided by Microsoft. Follow these steps:
- Right-click on the Start Menu and Press ‘Command Prompt (Admin)‘
- Then put these commands in one-by-one and press enter:
sc config bits binpath= "%systemroot%\system32\svchost.exe –k netsvcs" sc config bits depend= RpcSs/EventSystem sc config bits start= delayed-auto sc config bits type= interact type=own sc config bits error= normal sc config bits obj= LocalSystem sc privs bits privileges= SeCreateGlobalPrivilege/SeImpersonatePrivilege/SeTcbPrivilege/SeAssignPrimaryTokenPrivilege/SeIncreateQuotaPrivilege sc sidtype bits unrestricted sc failure bits reset= 86400 actions=restart/60000/restart/120000?
- Now restart your computer and try updating Windows again.
2. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows Update Troubleshooter, is designed to automatically identify and fix common Windows Update problems.
If you haven’t tried this method yet, follow the instructions below to run the Windows Update Troubleshooter and apply the recommended fix automatically:
- Open a Run dialog box by pressing the Windows key + R.
- Type ‘control’ inside the text box and press Enter to open up the Control Panel interface.
Accessing the Control Panel Menu Note: You may be prompted by the User Account Control – if so, click Yes to grant admin access.
- Once you’re inside the Control Panel window, use the search function to look for ‘troubleshoot’.
- From the list of results, click on all the different categories Troubleshooting.
Accessing the Troubleshooting tab - Go under System and Security and click on Fix problems with Windows Updates.
Fix Problems with Windows Update - After you get to the first Windows Update Troubleshooter prompt, click Next and wait for the initial scan to finish.
- If a viable fix is found, click on Apply this fix to apply it to the recognizable scenario.
Apply the recommended fix Note: Keep in mind that with some types of recommended fixes, you might be required to do a series of manual steps.
- After applying the fix successfully, restart your PC and attempt to install the failing update once again.
If the Windows Update still fails to install with the same 0x80070003, move down to the next method below.
3. Clear the DataStore Folder
- First things first, open up File Explorer by pressing the Windows key + E or by clicking on the appropriate icon inside the taskbar.
- Once you’re inside File Explorer, navigate to the following location:
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
- Once you’re inside the SoftwareDistribution folder, double-click on DataStore.
Accessing the DataStore menu - From the SoftwareDistribution folder, double-click on Download from the list of subfolders.
- Once you’re inside the Download folder, press Ctrl + A to select everything inside, then right-click on a selected item and click on Delete from the context menu.
- After the Download folder of DataStore is completely empty, restart your PC and wait for the next startup to complete.
- After your PC boots back up, attempt to install the pending update once again and see if the problem is now fixed.
In case the same issue is still occurring, move down to the next method below.
4. Restart the main Windows Update Service
- Press Windows key + R to open up a Run dialog box.
- Next, type ‘cmd’ inside the text box.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open up an elevated Command Prompt window with admin access.
Open up a CMD prompt - At the User Account Control prompt, click Yes to grant admin access to the CMD Prompt.
- Type the following commands in the same order and press Enter after each one to effectively restart and re-register the main Windows Update service:
net stop wuauserv regsvr32 %windir%\system32\wups2.dll net start wuauserv
- Once every command has been processed successfully, close the elevated Command Prompt and attempt to install the failing update once again.
If the same kind of error is still occurring, move down to the next method below.
5. Reset the Windows Update component
- The first step is to open a Run dialog box by pressing the Windows key and R simultaneously.
- After that, type “cmd” into the text box and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open an elevated Command Prompt with admin access.
- Keep in mind that you will need to click ‘Yes’ when the User Account Control prompt appears in order to grant administrative privileges.
- Once you’re in the elevated Command Prompt, use the following commands (in order) to stop all Windows Update-related services:
net stop wuauserv net stop cryptSvc net stop bits net stop msiserver
Note: These commands will effectively stop the Windows Update Services, MSI Installer, Cryptographic services, and BITS services.
- After every relevant service has been stopped, you can clear and rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders by using these commands:
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
Note: These two very important folders store updated files used by the WU component. Renaming these folders will force your OS to create new healthy equivalents that will not be affected by corruption.
- Now that the folders have been cleared, run the following commands to re-enable the services we disabled earlier:
net start wuauserv net start cryptSvc net start bits
- Restart your PC one final time and see if the 0x80070003 error has been eliminated.
If the same kind of issue is still occurring, move down to the next method below.
6. Install the pending update manually
- Start by visiting the home page of the Microsoft Update Catalog (MUC) directory in your preferred browser.
- In the MUC root directory, use the search function to look for the update that’s failing in your particular case (for example KB5005188).
Install the failing update - When the results come up, go through them and choose the appropriate update versions that you need to install, taking into account your current OS architecture and the Windows versions you’re using.
Download and install the correct update via MUC - Once you know which update is compatible with your machine, click on the Download button next to the correct driver.
- After the download is finally done, open File Explorer and navigate to the folder where the update was downloaded (most likely in the Download folder).
- After you’re inside the right folder, find the .ini file and right-click it before clicking Install from the context menu.
Install the update from the ini file - Follow the remaining directions on the screen to finish installing the Windows Update that was failing to install previously.
- Restart your PC one final time and see if the problem is now fixed.
If the issue is still not fixed as you’re seeing the 0x80070003 even when attempting to install the pending update using the Microsoft Update Catalog, move down to the next method below.
7. Bring Your Windows up to date using Windows Update Assistant
- Start by opening up any browser and visit the official download page of Windows.
- Once you get to the correct page, click on the Update now button under (Windows 10).
Update Now - Wait until the download is complete, then right-click on the executable that you’ve just downloaded and click on Run as Administrator.
- At the confirmation prompt, click on Yes to grant admin privileges.
- Once you’ve successfully opened the Windows Update Assistant, click on the Update Now button and wait until the update is downloaded.
Install the latest update available via Windows Update - Once the download is complete, you will be asked to restart your PC in order to allow the update to install.
- Once your PC restarts you will see a “Finishing Up’ window as the installation of the pending update is complete.
If the steps above we’re interrupted at some point by the 0x80070003 error (or a different one), try the next method below.
8. Bring Your Windows up to date using Media Creation Tool
- Open any browser and visit the official download page of Windows.
- Once you arrive at the correct page, click on the Download button (under Create Windows 10 installation media).
Downloading the latest version of the media creation tool - Once the executable of the tool is downloaded locally, double-click on it and click Yes at the UAC (User Account Control) prompt.
- Accept the Terms of Service, then select the Upgrade this PC now toggle before clicking on Next.
Upgrading this PC - Wait for all the downloads to finish, then choose to Keep everything in order to ensure that you aren’t clean installing.
- Follow the remaining instructions to complete the upgrade operation, then restart your PC and see if the problem is now fixed.
If you’re still experiencing the 0x80070003 error during the updating process or something else interrupts the upgrading, move down to the next method below.
9. Deploy SFC and DISM Scans
Begin with a basic SFC scan.
Note: Keep in mind that this tool only works locally and won’t require an internet connection.
After the SFC scan is complete, reboot your computer and check if the issue has been fixed once the startup is finished.
If you’re still seeing the 0x80070003 error when trying to run the Windows Update Troubleshooter, try running a DISM scan next and follow the on-screen prompts to finish up.
Important: One key difference between SFC and DISM is that DISM uses a sub-component of Windows Update to download healthy equivalents of any corrupted system files it finds. Because of this, you need to make sure you have a stable internet connection before beginning this operation.
After the DISM scan is successful, restart your computer once again and see if that has fixed the 0x80070003 error. If not, move on to the next potential fix below.”
10. Deploy a Clean Install or Repair install
If you haven’t had any success so far, it’s likely because you’re dealing with some kind of inconsistency that can’t be fixed in a conventional way.
There are two available options:
- Repair install (in-place repair) – This procedure only touches your system files and leaves everything else intact. This should be your first approach if you have essential personal data that you can’t afford to lose. But keep in mind that you’ll need compatible installation media.
- Clean install – This is the easiest procedure out of the bunch. You can deploy this operation without compatible installation media, but keep in mind that you’ll lose any personal files, documents, and media present on the operating system partition.
Kamil Anwar
Kamil is a certified MCITP, CCNA (W), CCNA (S) and a former British Computer Society Member with over 9 years of experience Configuring, Deploying and Managing Switches, Firewalls and Domain Controllers also an old-school still active on FreeNode.
Все способы:
- Способ 1: Встроенное средство устранения неполадок
- Способ 2: Отключение брандмауэра / антивирусной программы
- Способ 3: Очистка папки с кешем обновлений
- Способ 4: Восстановление файла Spupdsvc.exe
- Способ 5: Проверка системных файлов на целостность
- Способ 6: Сброс компонентов «Центра обновления»
- Способ 7: Ручное обновление ОС
- Способ 8: Восстановление Windows
- Вопросы и ответы: 1
Способ 1: Встроенное средство устранения неполадок
Рассматриваемая ошибка с кодом 0x80070003 связана с «Центром обновления Windows», поэтому первым делом следует проверить его на наличие программных неисправностей:
- Нажмите на кнопку «Пуск» и перейдите в системные «Параметры».
- В открывшемся окне выберите раздел «Обновление и безопасность».
- Затем перейдите на вкладку «Устранение неполадок», а в центральной части окна нажмите на ссылку для перехода к дополнительным средствам.
- В списке отыщите проверку «Центра обновления» и нажмите на строку левой кнопкой мыши. Станет активна дополнительная кнопка для запуска средства. Кликните по ней, чтобы начать сканирование.
Средство проверит «Центр обновления» на наличие различных сбоев, и, если они будут выявлены, предложит варианты действий, которые могут помочь решить проблему.
Способ 2: Отключение брандмауэра / антивирусной программы
Нередко процесс обновления блокируется антивирусной программой или брандмауэром от сторонних разработчиков. Этот метод не касается встроенной защиты Windows 10. В другом случае можно попробовать приостановить работу антивируса, и тогда он перестанет ограничивать попытки установки апдейтов.
Подробнее: Отключение антивируса
Если после деактивации антивируса удалось установить обновления, но в дальнейшем такая проблема начнет появляться вновь, лучше поменяйте программу на другую.
Способ 3: Очистка папки с кешем обновлений
Бывает и так, что ошибка обновления 0x800700003 в Windows 10 появляется из-за кеша «Центра обновлений», который хранится в специальной папке на системном локальном диске. Прежде чем стирать данные, нужно приостановить работу службы, отвечающей за апдейты, только потом перейти к каталогу и вручную очистить его. Более подробная инструкция в нашем отдельном материале.
Подробнее: Удаление кеша обновлений в Windows 10
Способ 4: Восстановление файла Spupdsvc.exe
Файл Spupdsvc.exe входит в состав службы, отвечающей за обновление Windows 10. Он получает уведомление о том, что нужно устанавливать апдейты, когда они приходят для системы, после чего в реестр добавляется новый ключ для этого файла. Если в этой цепочки действий появляется сбой, то нередки ошибки при попытке обновить ОС, в том числе и 0x80070003. В этом случае может помочь обновление конфигурации этого файла. Проще всего сделать это, использовав специальную команду:
- Запустите «Командную строку» от имени администратора, отыскав средство через строку системного поиска.
- В окне консоли введите команду
cmd /c ren %systemroot%\System32\Spupdsvc.exe Spupdsvc.oldи нажмите на клавишу «Enter», чтобы выполнить ее.
Когда работа файла конфигурации будет восстановлена, попробуйте снова обновить Windows 10.
Способ 5: Проверка системных файлов на целостность
Повреждены могут быть и другие важные системные файлы. Это происходит по различным причинам, например из-за деятельности вирусов или критического сбоя в ОС. В таком случае корректное функционирование системы может быть нарушено. Но в Windows предусмотрены специальные инструменты, которые способны проверить компьютер на наличие таких файлов и восстановить их, причем в автоматическом режиме. Эта возможность упрощает проверку на целостность, ведь пользователю не нужно самостоятельно искать причину такого поведения и устранять неполадку. Достаточно использовать команды в консоли «Командная строка», чтобы запустить эти утилиты.
Подробнее: Использование и восстановление проверки целостности системных файлов в Windows 10
Способ 6: Сброс компонентов «Центра обновления»
Поскольку рассматриваемая ошибка может быть связана с «Центром обновления Windows», есть смысл сбросить его компоненты. Для этого нужно выполнить несколько команд, но зачастую этот метод решает проблемы, возникающие во время инсталляции апдейтов. Обычно сбрасываются компоненты в автоматическом режиме, но само по себе это происходит довольно редко, поэтому придется провести внеплановый сброс.
В «Командной строке», запущенной от имени администратора, нужно ввести восемь команд, где первые четыре приостанавливают работу «Центра обновления», а последние, соответственно, запускают ее:
net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
net stop appidsvc
net stop cryptsvc
ren %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start bits
net start wuauserv
net start appidsvc
net start cryptsvc
Не забывайте, что после ввода каждой команды нужно нажимать клавишу «Enter», чтобы выполнить ее. Когда все будет готово, снова начните обновление Windows 10.
Если способ помог решить проблему, через «Проводник» перейдите к папке
C:\Windows\System32и удалите папки «SoftwareDistribution.old» и «catroot2.old».
Способ 7: Ручное обновление ОС
При появлении проблемы во время автоматического обновления осуществите установку апдейты самостоятельно. Это может помочь исправить системную ошибку, которая вызывает сбой. Выполняется процедура как с помощью вспомогательных программ, так и вручную – достаточно скачать с официального сайта необходимые обновления и установить их. Все варианты мы разбирали в наших отдельных руководствах.
Подробнее:
Устанавливаем обновления для Windows 10 вручную
Программы для обновления Windows 10
Способ 8: Восстановление Windows
Если ни один способ не помог убрать ошибку обновления 0x80070003 в Windows 10, откатитесь до предыдущего ее состояния. Ведь может быть и так, что недавно установленные приложения стали причиной неисправности, или вы самостоятельно изменяли настройки системы, которые могли повлиять на обновления.
Подробнее: Откат к точке восстановления в Windows 10
В крайнем случае можете вернуть Windows к исходному состоянию, сохранив все файлы и данные, которые есть на компьютере. Для этого в ОС предусмотрены встроенные возможности, и они могут помочь даже тогда, когда «десятка» вовсе не загружается.
Подробнее: Восстанавливаем ОС Windows 10 к исходному состоянию
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What Is Windows Update Error 0x80070003?
Do you upgrade Windows 7 to Windows 10/11 or upgrade to the latest version of Windows? Then, you will probably get the error 0x80070003, which stops the update at 20-50%. Windows Update is supposed to provide security fixes and bug patches, but sometimes files get damaged or go missing, thus updates cannot install properly. This error may disrupt the system’s stability and some files are not accessible.
Error 0x80070003 occurs when Windows Update fails to install updates. It may also show a BITS service error. This issue often happens during Windows 10/11 updates (e.g., KB3200970). The update may download but fail to install, sometimes even restarting and uninstalling itself.
Causes of Error 0x80070003
This error may be based on one or more of the following reasons:
- Corrupted system files
- Windows Update services stuck
- Poor internet connection.
- Disabled or misconfigured service of Windows Update.
The main cause is corrupted or missing update files, often due to conflicts with other programs or system errors. Manual installation won’t fix it, as the files remain damaged. In this article on Outbyte we will give you a detailed guide how to fix the error.
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Error Code 0xc0000185 on Windows 10
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How to Fix Error 0x80070003
First, restart your Computer. This may refresh the system and sort out some update issues. Close all programs, restart, and try updating again.
Also, check your Internet connection: a stable internet connection is important for Windows Update. If you’re on Wi-Fi, switch to a wired connection or reset your router.
Step 1. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can diagnose and fix update problems automatically.
- Press Windows + R, type
msdt.exe /id WindowsUpdateDiagnostic, and press Enter. - Follow the instructions to let the troubleshooter work.
Check to see if the Windows Update troubleshooter was able to resolve the problem. If that doesn’t work, move on to the next step listed below.
Step 2. Restart Windows Update Services
If the troubleshooter doesn’t help, manually restart the services responsible for updates.
- Press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and hit Enter. - Find Windows Update, Background Intelligent Transfer Service, and Cryptographic Services.
- Set them to Automatic and make sure they are running.
To see if the problem persists, perform a Windows update.
Step 3. Reset Windows Update Folders
Corrupted update folders may also cause this error. Resetting them could solve the problem.
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Stop the update service:
net stop wuauserv. - Rename the update folder:
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old. - Restart the update service:
net start wuauserv.
Restart your computer to determine whether the Windows Update problem 0x80070003 has been fixed. If the issue persists, try the next solution.
Step 4. Replace Spupdsvc.exe
If resetting folders didn’t work, try replacing the Spupdsvc.exe file.
- Open Command Prompt as an admin.
- Run this command:
cmd /c ren %systemroot%\System32\Spupdsvc.exe Spupdsvc.old. - Try updating Windows again.
Step 5. Run System File Checker
Corrupted system files can block updates. Use the System File Checker (SFC) to scan and repair your system.
- Open Command Prompt as an admin.
- Type
sfc /scannowand press Enter.
Step 6. Use the Windows Update Assistant
If none of the above worked, download the Windows Update Assistant from Microsoft’s website to manually update your system.
Step 7. Manually Install Failed Updates
You also can download and install the problematics updates manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go into Update & Security > View update history.
- Look into failed updates and install them manually.
Hopefully, with the aid of this article, you should have been able to fix the Windows Update error 0x80070003. If you have suggestions that work for the error, then do well to let us know in the comment section below.
There is also Outbyte PC Repair, for system repair and maintenance-they will help your computer run at a better performance and clean errors.
FAQs
What is error 0x80070003?
It’s an issue with Windows Update, often caused by missing or corrupted update files.
How can I fix error 0x80070003?
Restart your computer, run the troubleshooter, reset update services, or replace corrupt system files.
Why does Windows Update fail?
Common reasons include unstable internet, disabled services, or corrupted system files.
Is manually installing updates helpful?
Yes, if all else fails, manually installing the updates from the Microsoft Update Catalog might solve the problem.