Windows updates are essential for your system to run smoothly and securely. Sometimes updates can fail due to errors such as 0x800f0900. This prevents your computer from installing the necessary updates. This error may be caused by corrupted files in the system, network problems, or a lack of disk space.
This guide will help you Solve Windows 10 Update Error 0x800f0900.
Also Read: 6 Methods to Fix Microsoft Word Not Responding Issue
What causes Windows 10 Update error 0x800f0900?
Let’s first understand what could be causing this error before we fix it.
- Windows system files can be corrupted.
- Internet connection problems – An unstable or weak connection can cause updates to be interrupted.
- Windows Update service not running. These services need to be running for updates.
- Insufficient disk space. Your PC must have enough space available to install updates.
- Conflicts with third-party software – An antivirus or other software could be blocking an update.
Windows 10 Update Error Code 0x800f0900: 7 Solutions
Fix 1: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows comes with a troubleshooter which can automatically fix most update errors.
- To open Settings, press Win + I.
- 2 Click on Update and Security – Troubleshooting.
- Windows Update – Additional Troubleshooters
- Follow the instructions on the screen.
Restart your computer and update Windows again if the troubleshooter fixes any problems.
Fix 2: Check your Internet Connection
Windows updates can be interrupted by a slow or unstable Internet connection.
- Restart the router and modem.
- Switch to Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi.
- Use Fast.com’s speed test to determine your internet speed.
When your network is stable, you can update Windows if it is slow.
Fix 3: Increase Disk Space
Windows updates can fail if your PC is not large enough.
- Open File Explorer, and click on C: Drive.
- 2 Click Properties – Disk Cleanup.
- Choose Temporary files (option 2), the Recycle Bin (option 3), and Windows Update Cleanup.
- 4 Click on OK to delete files.
Tip: Uninstall unused software or move files to an external hard drive if you need more space.
Fix 4: Restart Windows Update Service
Windows Update depends on the services that run in the background. Updates may fail if these services are stopped.
- 1 Press Win + R and type services.msc.
- Scroll down to find the services you need:
Windows Update
Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
Cryptographic Services
Click on the Restart button by right-clicking each service.
- Try updating Windows again after restarting services.
Fix 5: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tool
If your system files are corrupted, these commands will repair them.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
- Press Win + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator.
- Run the SFC scan:
- Type the command:
sfc /scannow
- Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete.
- Run the DISM tool:
- If the SFC scan doesn’t fix the issue, type:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Press Enter and wait for the process to complete.
Restart your computer and check if the update error is fixed.
Fix 6: Reset Windows Update Components
Windows Update files can be corrupted and cause update failures. This can be resolved by resetting the update components.
- Open Command Prompt (Win + S) as an administrator.
- Enter each command after typing it.
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
- Now, rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders:
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
- Restart the stopped services:
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
- Close the Command Prompt and restart your PC.
This method resets the update system, often fixing stubborn update errors.
Fix 7: Download the update manually from Microsoft
You can download the update manually if none of the fixes above work.
- 1 Go to the Windows Update Catalog (https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com).
- Find the KB code of the failed update.
- Download the correct version.
- Install the software by double-clicking the downloaded file.
Install the update manually to bypass the error.
Final Thoughts
Windows 10 update error code 0x800f0900 is frustrating, but can be fixed with the right steps. Try the easy fixes first, such as running the troubleshooter or checking your internet. Then move on to more advanced solutions, like resetting the update components or manually updating updates.
If the problem persists you may want to upgrade to Windows 11 or perform a clean install of Windows 10
FAQs
- What is the cause of Windows 10 Update Error 0x800f0900?
This error can be caused by corrupted system or network files, low disk space or Windows Update failures.
- How can I tell which update has failed?
To view the failed updates, go to Settings – Security & Updates – View Update History.
- Can I reset Windows Update components safely?
It is absolutely safe. This method removes corrupt update data and forces Windows re-download new update data.
- Can a third party antivirus cause updates to fail?
Some antivirus programs do block Windows updates. Disable your antivirus temporarily and then try updating.
- What if none or all of these fixes works?
Consider resetting your computer or manually installing the updates from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
