A failed Windows Update, indicated by error code 0x80070302, can stem from several underlying issues, including insufficient disk space, corrupted system files, or conflicts with antivirus software. Here’s how to address this error and get your updates back on track.
Reset Windows Update Components
Resetting the Windows Update components is often the most effective solution. This process clears the update cache and reregisters the necessary services.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Search for cmd in the Start menu, right-click on “Command Prompt”, and select “Run as administrator”.
Step 2: Stop the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), the Windows Update service, and the Cryptographic service. Enter 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. Use these commands:
ren %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
Step 4: Restart the BITS, Windows Update, and Cryptographic services. Enter these commands, pressing Enter after each:
net start bits
net start wuauserv
net start appidsvc
net start cryptsvc
Step 5: Close the Command Prompt and restart your computer. Attempt the Windows Update again.
Use Microsoft Update Catalog
If the automated Windows Update is failing, manually downloading and installing the update via the Microsoft Update Catalog can bypass the issue.
Step 1: Identify the failing update’s KB number. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and view the update history to find the KB number of the failed update.
Step 2: Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.
Step 3: Enter the KB number in the search bar and click “Search”.
Step 4: Download the appropriate update for your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
Step 5: Run the downloaded .msu file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the update.
Use the Media Creation Tool
If the error occurs during a Feature Update, upgrading via the Media Creation Tool can resolve the issue.
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 prompts to download and install the latest version of Windows. This process may take some time.
Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to automatically diagnose and fix update-related problems.
Step 1: Open Settings.
Step 2: Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
Step 3: Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions and allow the troubleshooter to attempt to fix any detected issues.
Temporarily Disable Your Antivirus
Antivirus software can sometimes interfere with the update process. Temporarily disabling it can help determine if it’s the cause.
Step 1: Locate your antivirus software icon in the system tray.
Step 2: Right-click the icon and look for an option to disable or temporarily turn off protection. The wording varies depending on the software.
Step 3: Disable the antivirus software and attempt the Windows Update again.
Step 4: Remember to re-enable your antivirus software immediately after the update is complete.
Check the Space on Your C Drive
Insufficient disk space can prevent updates from installing.
Step 1: Open File Explorer.
Step 2: Right-click on your C drive and select “Properties”.
Step 3: Check the amount of free space. If it’s low (less than 10 GB), free up space by deleting unnecessary files or transferring them to another drive. The Disk Cleanup tool can help identify and remove temporary files.
Resolving Windows Update error 0x80070302 involves systematically addressing potential causes, from resetting update components to ensuring sufficient disk space. Consistent maintenance and timely troubleshooting are key to a smooth update experience.