How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x800f020b

Easy Fixes to Try First

1. Restart Your Computer

• Save your work and restart your PC.
• After restarting, go to: Start > Settings (⚙) > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates

2. Run the Update Troubleshooter

• Go to: Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters
• Click Windows Update > Run the troubleshooter
• Follow the instructions and restart if asked.

3. Free Up Space on Your Computer

• Press Windows + R, type cleanmgr, and press Enter.
• Select your C: drive and check: ☑ Temporary files ☑ Windows Update Cleanup
• Click OK > Delete Files

If the Error Still Appears

4. Reset Windows Update

• Press Windows + X and choose Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
• Copy and paste these commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each: net stop wuauserv net stop bits net stop cryptSvc ren %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old net start wuauserv net start bits net start cryptSvc
• Restart your PC and check for updates again.

5. Install the Update Manually

• Go to: Microsoft Update Catalog
• Search for the KB number shown in your update history.
• Download and install the update file.

Still Not Working?

• Temporarily disable your antivirus (right-click its icon in the taskbar).
• Check your internet connection (try using a different network if possible).
• Contact Microsoft Support if the error continues.

Quick Tips to Prevent Update Problems

• ✔ Keep at least 20GB free on your C: drive.
• ✔ Restart your PC weekly to install pending updates.
• ✔ Avoid interrupting updates once they start.