How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070003

Recently, many users have reported encountering Error 0x80070003while trying to update their Windows devices. This error signifies that the Windows Update tool has failed to download or install updates.

When this error appears, it prompts you to retry the update. If your internet bandwidth is limited, it can quickly deplete your data without resolving the issue.

If you’re unable to update your PC due to Error 0x80070003, here are some effective solutions.

1. Run the Update Troubleshooter
Windows 10 includes a built-in update troubleshooter designed to identify and resolve various update-related issues. Here’s how to run it:

• Click on Windows Search and type Control Panel.
• Open the Control Panel and select System and Security.
• Click on the Fix Problems with Windows Updates link.

This will launch the Windows Update troubleshooter. Ensure you check Apply repairs automatically and select the Run as Administrator link. Click on Next to allow the troubleshooter to run and fix any detected problems.

2. Temporarily Disable Windows Security
Many users have successfully resolved Error 0x80070003 by temporarily disabling Windows Defender. While you cannot fully turn off Windows Security, you can disable specific features:

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1. Click on Windows Search and type Windows Security. Open the application from the results.
2. Select Virus & Threat Protection.
3. Click on Manage Settings.
4. Disable the following options:

– Real-time Protection
– Cloud-delivered Protection
– Automatic Sample Submission
– Tamper Protection

Once these options are disabled, try running the Windows Update tool again. You should no longer encounter Error 0x80070003.

3. Run SFC and DISM Commands
The SFC (System File Checker) and DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool) commands can help scan and repair corrupted system files that may be causing the error. Here’s how to run these commands:

1. Click on Windows Search and type **Command Prompt. Right-click and select Run as administrator.
2. In the Command Prompt, enter the command:

sfc /scannow

1. This command will initiate the System File Checker tool to scan and repair corrupted files.
2. If SFC returns an error, run the following DISM command:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

4. Restart Windows Update Components
If your Windows 10 device cannot install a specific update, restarting the update components may help. Follow these steps:

1. Open Command Prompt with administrative rights.
2. Execute the following commands one by one:

net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
Ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
Ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver

1. After completing these commands, reopen Windows Update and check for updates.

5. Install Windows Updates Manually
If all else fails, you can download and install Windows updates manually. Identify the specific version or build that is failing to download, then:

• Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog website.
• Search for the update package and download it.
• Install the update directly on your device and restart.

For a detailed guide on downloading and installing updates manually, refer to our comprehensive resource.

6. Ensure Correct Date and Time Settings
Incorrect date and time settings can lead to Windows Update errors. To correct this:

1. Open the Settings app on Windows.
2. Navigate to Time & Language.
3. Click on Date & Time.
4. Enable the toggle for Set the time automatically.
5. Make sure to select the correct time zone for your location.

These are some straightforward methods to resolve Windows Update Error 0x80070003. If you need further assistance, feel free to leave a comment. And if this article was helpful, please share it with your friends!