RepairWindows

How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80080008

Jack

By Jack Lin

Update on

0x80080008

If you are a Windows user, you have probably run into the Windows update error 0x80080008, as update errors are a regular Windows 10 issue.

Every year, Windows releases updates to fix the flaws and issues customers face with a particular version of Windows.

Updates are an important element of every operating system since they include new features, security features, and much more. Windows can slow down on your computer over time, but updating to the most recent version helps guarantee that it is up and running smoothly. However, installing these updates isn’t always simple.

Windows 10 is beset by a slew of update-related issues. The Windows update error 0x80080008 is one such error message that has been bothering Windows users for some time.

Although there is no precise method to determine or ascertain the cause of the issue, it is fixable. This issue may appear in your system for various causes, and if you are one of those unlucky Windows users, this blog will be useful.

We have compiled a list of fixes for every potential cause of the Windows update error 0x80080008. Keep on reading!

The Variations of Windows Update Error 0x80080008

The update error 0x80080008 prevents you from installing the most recent updates. In that vein, here are some more difficulties that users have reported:

  • 0x80080008 Server 2016 – This problem has been reported by many customers running Windows Server 2016. While our solutions are primarily for Windows 10, some of them should apply to Windows Server.
  • Windows Update Failed – This is an update issue that will cease operating. However, you should be able to resolve the issue by deactivating your antivirus or manually downloading the update.

PS: if you are experiencing the issues like Windows Defender error code 0x80004004 or the 0x800703f1 Windows Update error, here are the top solutions for you.


Ways to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80080008

Since it is impossible to predict which option will work in your specific system, you will have to attempt each solution individually. These are several tried-and-true fixes for the Windows update error 0x80080008, and one of them will certainly work for you.

Besides, if you are bothered with errors such as error 0x80246007, click to fix them easily.

Way 1: Disable Third-party Antivirus Software

Antivirus software is one of the most prevalent causes of the 0x80080008 update error. If you have antivirus software installed on your system, it will block certain connections. Consequently, an antivirus might occasionally restrict Windows updates, leading to an error.

As a result, the most practical solution is to disable antivirus. This has helped many people; therefore, it’s at the top of our list of fixes for Windows Update issues.

If disabling the antivirus doesn’t work, you should uninstall it. Even if you uninstall your antivirus software, your system should still be secured by Windows Defender, so there’s no need to worry about your security.

If uninstalling the antivirus resolves your issue, this is an excellent opportunity to switch to a new antivirus provider.

Follow the Instructions Below if You Wish to Uninstall the Antivirus Software Manually:

  • Type Add or Remove Programs into the Windows search box.
  • Look for the antivirus in the list of installed programs here.
  • Select it and then click Uninstall.
  • To finish the procedure, follow the on-screen directions.
  • After that, try updating Windows 10 to see whether the problem has been resolved.

Manually removing programs/software from a computer leaves some of its files on the system, causing problems when reinstalling them.

As a result, it is recommended that you utilize a Windows uninstaller utility to thoroughly remove the software from the system.

If the error 0x80080008 occurs again, proceed to the next solution on the list.

Way 2: Run SFC Tool

If there is a problem with your Windows installation, you may experience this issue when attempting to update Windows. In such a scenario, you should perform a system file check (SFC) on your system.

To Solve the 0x80080008 Problem, Follow the Steps Below:

1: In the search box, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator from the menu.

Run SFC to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80080008

2: To execute this command, type sfc /scannow in the command box and press Enter.

sfc /scannow

3: Wait for the command to run; it will scan and fix the corrupted system files.

After running the SFC command to examine your system files, try running the Windows update service to see whether you can download updates without errors. This should resolve the problem, but if it does not, proceed to the following step.

Way 3: Run DISM Tool

If the SFC scan fails to resolve the Windows update error 0x80080008, the DISM tool should be used next. Using the DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tool, you can quickly resolve update difficulties.

Follow the Instructions Below to Run the Command and Resolve the Windows 10 Update Error 0x80080008.

1: Using the abovementioned method, open Command Prompt as an administrator.

2: Type the following command into the Command Prompt and click Enter:

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth

Run DISM Tool

Wait for the command to run.

3: You can run the scan offline or if your DISM scan cannot connect to the online services. However, you’ll need to use a Windows installation CD or USB.

Then, hit Enter to run the command “DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:C:RepairSourceWindows /LimitAccess.” Make sure to replace the “C:RepairSourceWindows” path of your DVD or USB.

Verify whether the windows update error 0x80080008 persists after completing the DISM scan. If that’s the case, go on to the next possible option.

Way 4: Restart Windows Update Components

The windows update error 0x80080008 appears when anything goes wrong with the Windows update components. So, if you wish to fix the problem, you should try restarting these components.

You can do this manually, but it’s time-consuming, so Command Prompt is typically the preferable option.

1: Search for the “Command prompt” using the start button. Choose Run as administrator from the menu bar when you right-click on it. Then, one by one, type in the following command instructions, pressing Enter after each one:

  • net stop wuauserv
  • net stop cryptSvc
  • net stop bits
  • net stop msiserver
Restart Windows Update components to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80080008
  • ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
  • ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
  • net start wuauserv
  • net start cryptSvc
  • net start bits
  • net start msiserver
net start msiserver

2: Close the Windows command prompt window when performing the last command.

Try upgrading Windows once more. If the windows update issue 0x80080008 occurs again, move to the next viable solution.

Way 5: Manually Download the Update

If you’ve tried downloading the update online and it’s always failed, you might try updating it offline.

To do so, you’ll need to manually download the update as an additional file and install it on your computer like any other piece of software.

This is a Fairly Easy Process That May Be Accomplished by Following These Steps:

1: Look up the KB number for the update you want to install. You may go to the Windows Update part of your system or the Windows Update History website.

2: You’ll see a KB number adjacent to the Windows update file that was causing you problems. Make a note of that number, and then proceed to the Microsoft Update Catalog website. Now, you must type the updated number into the search field.

3: A selection of results will appear, and you must choose the update that matches your system architecture before clicking the Download button.

Manually Download Update to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80080008

4: Install the update by running the setup file when it has been fully downloaded.

Your system will be upgraded to the newest version, and the issue will be fixed once the update is implemented. Please remember that this method will not solve the central problem; rather, it will let you manually download and install the update, allowing you to sidestep the difficulty.

However, if the installation fails or you cannot locate the updated file for your system, go to the next possible option.

Way 6: Restart BITS Service

BITS is an acronym for Background Intelligent Transfer Service, which is required for Windows updates.

But, if it crashes or halts for any reason, you may get the Windows update error 0x80080008 when attempting to upgrade your system.

Give the BITS a restart since that might cause a problem in your system.

1: Press the Windows and R keys simultaneously to open the Run box.

2: To open the Services window, enter services.msc and click OK.

services.msc

3: Double-click the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) to access its properties.

Restart BITS Service to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80080008

4: Click the Start button to start the service if it isn’t already operating.

Start BITS Service

5: Make sure that the First failure and Second failure are set to Restart the service in the Recovery section.

First failure and Second failure are set to Restart the service

6: Check for updates after confirming and applying the changes.

For some users, this is sufficient. If the error 0x80080008 continues to occur, go on to the next possible alternative.

Way 7: Boot in a Safe Boot Mode

Background applications and associated activities can sometimes slow down or even prohibit an update. So, consider adjusting your services and startup to avoid a potential crash.

1: Open the Run box by pressing Windows Key + R. Type in msconfig. Now hit Enter or click OK.

msconfig

2: Select the Services tab and uncheck the option labeled Hide all Microsoft services. After that, select Disable All and then Apply.

Disable All Services Expect Microsoft Services

3: Select Open Task Manager from the Startup tab.

Open Task Manager

4: Disable each Startup application separately.

Boot Safe Boot Mode to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80080008

Restart your computer and update your system to see whether the issue has gone away.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is Error 0x80080008?

The 0x80080008 error prohibits people from checking for new updates. It generally occurs due to a prior unsuccessful download or a cache issue, and it may be resolved with the help of this article.

Why am I experiencing update problems with Windows 10?

Depending on the error code, Windows 10 Update problems can be caused by various factors. Corrupted system files, obsolete drivers, damaged/corrupted Windows Update files, third-party applications, and other factors are among the most prevalent causes.

What should I do if I get a Windows 10 update error?

Make sure you’ve freed up at least 20% of your overall disc space, so there is enough space for the update to be installed.

Then, to save time, you run the Update a few times after updating your drivers with an automated tool. Lastly, restart your system and look for problems on the hard disc.

How do I repair a corrupt Windows Update on Windows 10?

Using the DISM tool, you can quickly repair Windows Update corruption on your Windows 10 PC or laptop.

It’s a built-in Windows application that fixes damaged Windows Update files. If you don’t know how to run DISM, go to “Way 3” and follow the procedures there.


Ending Remarks

If you want the newest features and a bug-free operation on your PC, you must update Windows to the most recent version.

As a result, experiencing problems installing updates is not something to take lightly. One of the above methods should resolve your problem if you have a legitimate version of Windows installed.

That concludes the procedure for resolving the Windows update error 0x80080008. It is hoped that the steps outlined above will resolve Windows 10 update error 0x80080008.

All the methods described are simple to implement and do not require any prior technical knowledge.

After implementing the recommendations, you can upgrade your Windows 10 PC without getting this error.

Jack
Jack

10 years of experience in information and computer technology. Passionate about electronic devices, smartphones, computers, and modern technology.

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