Encountering the Windows Update error code 0x800707e7 can be frustrating, especially when it prevents your system from installing critical updates. This error typically occurs due to corrupted system files, misconfigured update components, or disk integrity issues.
Resolving it requires a systematic approach, including resetting update components, checking disk integrity, and repairing system files
Reset Windows Update Components
Windows Update relies on several background services and components to function correctly. If these components become corrupted or misconfigured, errors like 0x800707e7 may occur. Resetting these components can often resolve the issue.
- Stop Windows Update Services: Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the following commands:
net stop wuauserv,net stop bits, andnet stop cryptSvc. - Rename SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 Folders: These folders store temporary update files. Rename them by running:
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.oldandren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old. - Restart Services: Restart the services using:
net start wuauserv,net start bits, andnet start cryptSvc.
After completing these steps, attempt to run Windows Update again to see if the error persists.
Check Disk Integrity
Disk errors can also cause update failures. Running the Check Disk (CHKDSK) utility can help identify and fix these issues.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Press
Win + Xand select Command Prompt (Admin). - Run CHKDSK: Type
chkdsk /f /rand press Enter. This command scans the disk for errors and attempts to repair them. - Restart Your Computer: The system will prompt you to restart to complete the process.
Once the disk check is complete, try updating Windows again.
Repair System Files
Corrupted system files are a common cause of update errors. The System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) can help repair these files.
- Run SFC: Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type
sfc /scannow. This command scans and repairs corrupted system files. - Run DISM: If SFC doesn’t resolve the issue, run the following DISM commands:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth,DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth, andDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.
After running these tools, restart your computer and attempt the update process again.
Clear Windows Update Cache
A corrupted update cache can also trigger error 0x800707e7. Clearing the cache can help resolve the issue.
- Stop Windows Update Services: Use the same commands as in the first section to stop the services.
- Delete Cache Files: Navigate to
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Downloadand delete all files in this folder. - Restart Services: Restart the services using the commands provided earlier.
This process ensures that Windows downloads fresh update files, which may resolve the error.
Perform a Clean Boot
Third-party applications or services can interfere with Windows Update. Performing a clean boot can help identify and eliminate such conflicts.
- Open System Configuration: Press
Win + R, typemsconfig, and press Enter. - Disable Startup Items: Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable all.
- Restart Your Computer: After restarting, attempt to run Windows Update again.
If the update succeeds, re-enable services one by one to identify the conflicting application.
Update Windows Manually
If all else fails, you can manually download and install the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
- Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog: Go to https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com.
- Search for the Update: Enter the KB number of the update you’re trying to install.
- Download and Install: Download the appropriate version for your system and run the installer.
This method bypasses the Windows Update service, allowing you to install updates directly.