Windows Update errors can halt your system updates due to various reasons like corrupted system files or even conflicts with your security software. The 0x80070302 error is one such issue. Here are several methods to resolve this problem and get your Windows updates back on track.
Fix Windows Update error 0x80070302
Here’s how to troubleshoot the Windows Update error 0x80070302:
Reset Windows Update Components
The error 0x80070302 could stem from damaged Windows Update components. Resetting these components can often resolve the issue.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Search for cmd, right-click, and select “Run as administrator”.
Step 2: Stop the BITS, Cryptographic, MSI Installer, and Windows Update Services by entering the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
net stop appidsvc
net stop cryptsvc
Step 3: Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders. These folders store temporary update files, and renaming them forces Windows Update to create new ones. Use the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
ren %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.bak
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 Catroot2.bak
Step 4: Restart the BITS, Cryptographic, MSI Installer, and Windows Update Services. Enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net start bits
net start wuauserv
net start appidsvc
net start cryptsvc
Step 5: Close Command Prompt and restart your computer. After restarting, try running Windows Update again.
Use Microsoft Update Catalog
You can download and install updates manually via the Microsoft Update Catalog.
Step 1: Note the KB number of the failed update. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history to find the KB number of the update that failed to install.
Step 2: Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog website.
Step 3: Enter the KB number in the search box and click “Search”.
Step 4: Find the update that matches your system architecture (e.g., x64 for 64-bit systems) and click “Download”.
Step 5: Click the link in the pop-up window to download the .msu file.
Step 6: Run the downloaded .msu file to install the update manually.
Run Windows Update troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in troubleshooter designed to automatically diagnose and fix update-related issues.
Step 1: Open Settings.
Step 2: Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Step 3: Find Windows Update and click Run.
Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process. The troubleshooter will attempt to identify and resolve any issues preventing Windows Update from working correctly.
Check the space on your C drive
A lack of disk space can prevent updates from installing correctly.
Step 1: Open File Explorer.
Step 2: Right-click on your C drive and select “Properties”.
Step 3: Check the “Used space” and “Free space” values. Ensure you have sufficient free space (at least 10-20 GB is recommended).
Step 4: If space is limited, use Disk Cleanup to remove unnecessary files. Search for Disk Cleanup in the Start menu, select your C drive, and choose the file types to delete (e.g., Temporary files, Recycle Bin).
Temporarily disable your antivirus
Sometimes, antivirus software can interfere with the update process, causing errors.
Step 1: Locate the icon for your antivirus software in the system tray (usually in the bottom right corner of the screen).
Step 2: Right-click the icon and look for an option like “Disable,” “Turn Off Protection,” or a similar phrase. The wording varies depending on your antivirus software.
Step 3: Select the option to disable the antivirus, and choose a temporary duration (e.g., 15 minutes, 1 hour).
Step 4: Attempt to run Windows Update again. Remember to re-enable your antivirus software after updating.
Use the Media Creation Tool
If you’re encountering the error while trying to install a feature update, the Media Creation Tool can help.
Step 1: Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website.
Step 2: Run the tool and select “Upgrade this PC now”.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the latest version of Windows. This process will perform an in-place upgrade, preserving your files and applications.
How do I fix the Windows Update error code?
Troubleshooting a Windows Update error often depends on the specific error code displayed. General troubleshooting steps include using the Windows Update Troubleshooter, verifying sufficient disk space, and ensuring no conflicts with third-party software exist.
What is error code 0x8007002 on Windows Update?
The Windows Update error 0x8007002 typically occurs when there are issues with the system partitions on your hard drive, potentially confusing the update process. Resolving this error might involve managing or correcting partition configurations, which can be complex and require caution.
- Always back up your important data before making significant system changes.
- If you are uncomfortable performing these steps, consider seeking assistance from a qualified technician.
By methodically applying these fixes, you should be able to resolve the 0x80070302 error and successfully update your Windows system.