Windows Update error 0x80070026 is a common issue that occurs when the system fails to download or install updates. This error is often linked to corrupted system files, misconfigured Windows Update components, or network connectivity problems.
Resolving it requires a systematic approach, including resetting Windows Update components, repairing system files, and ensuring stable network connections.
Reset Windows Update Components
Windows Update relies on several background services and components to function correctly. If these components are corrupted or misconfigured, error 0x80070026 may occur. Resetting these components can often resolve the issue. Follow these steps:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for cmd in the Start menu, right-clicking on it, and selecting Run as administrator.
- Stop the Windows Update service by typing net stop wuauserv and pressing Enter.
- Stop the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) by typing net stop bits and pressing Enter.
- Navigate to the C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution folder and rename it to SoftwareDistribution.old.
- Restart the services by typing net start wuauserv and net start bits, then press Enter after each command.
This process clears the cache and resets the Windows Update components, allowing the system to download updates without encountering the error.
Run System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted or missing system files can also trigger error 0x80070026. The System File Checker (SFC) is a built-in tool that scans and repairs these files. To use it:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
- Wait for the scan to complete. If any issues are found, the tool will attempt to repair them automatically.
Once the process is complete, restart your computer and check if the error persists.
Use DISM to Repair the System Image
If the SFC tool does not resolve the issue, the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) can be used to repair the Windows system image. This tool is more comprehensive and can fix deeper system issues. Follow these steps:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter.
- Wait for the process to complete. This may take several minutes, depending on your system.
After DISM finishes, run the SFC tool again to ensure all corrupted files are repaired.
Check Network Connectivity
Network issues can sometimes prevent Windows Update from functioning correctly. Ensure your internet connection is stable and not blocked by firewalls or proxy settings. To troubleshoot:
- Open Settings and navigate to Network & Internet.
- Check if your connection is active and stable.
- If using a VPN or proxy, disable it temporarily and try updating again.
- Reset your network settings by typing netsh winsock reset and netsh int ip reset in Command Prompt, then restart your computer.
These steps can help eliminate network-related causes of error 0x80070026.
Manually Install the Update
If the error persists, you can manually download and install the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog. This bypasses the Windows Update service and ensures the update is applied directly. Here’s how:
- Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog website.
- Search for the specific update causing the error.
- Download the update file matching your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
This method is particularly useful if the update is critical and cannot be installed through the standard process.
Perform a Clean Boot
Third-party applications or services can interfere with Windows Update, causing error 0x80070026. Performing a clean boot ensures that only essential services and programs are running during the update process. To do this:
- Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
- Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
- Navigate to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Restart your computer and attempt the update again.
If the update succeeds, re-enable services and startup items one by one to identify the conflicting application.