Windows Update Error Code 0x800f0835 is a common issue that can prevent your system from installing critical updates. This error often occurs due to corrupted system files, misconfigured Windows Update components, or conflicts with third-party software.
Resolving this issue requires a systematic approach, including resetting Windows Update components, checking system integrity, and utilizing built-in troubleshooting tools.
Step 1: Reset Windows Update Components
Resetting Windows Update components can resolve issues caused by corrupted or misconfigured files. Follow these steps:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-clicking, 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 update cache and resets the update components, which can resolve the error.
Step 2: Check System Files for Corruption
Corrupted system files can also cause Error Code 0x800f0835. Use the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) to scan and repair your system:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Run the SFC tool by typing sfc /scannow and pressing Enter. This scans and repairs corrupted system files.
- If SFC does not resolve the issue, run the DISM tool by typing DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and pressing Enter. This repairs the Windows image.
These tools ensure your system files are intact and functioning correctly.
Step 3: Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter to diagnose and fix update-related issues. To use it:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
The troubleshooter automatically detects and resolves common update problems.
Step 4: Perform a Clean Boot
Third-party software conflicts can interfere with Windows Update. Performing a clean boot helps identify and resolve such conflicts:
- 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 click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items, then restart your computer.
If the error is resolved, re-enable services and startup items one by one to identify the culprit.
Step 5: Manually Install the Update
If the above steps fail, you can manually download and install the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog:
- Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog website.
- Search for the update using its KB number.
- Download and install the update manually.
This bypasses the Windows Update service and ensures the update is installed.