How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80080005?

Summary

Windows Update Error 0x80080005 prevents your system from installing updates. This can leave your PC vulnerable. In this blog, we explore 6 effective methods to fix error code 80080005. We cover step-by-step guides for each method and the what, why, and how about the error code 80080005.

Windows Update Error 0x80080005 is a frustrating error users face while updating Windows OS. It appears during a Windows update and blocks the installation of important updates. It leaves your system without the latest features or security patches.

But you don’t need to panic. There are several (simple) ways to fix error code 80080005.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this error.

By the end of this blog, you’ll be equipped with all the information to resolve error 0x80080005. Plus, you’ll know how to recover any lost data in the process.

What is Windows Update Error 0x80080005?

Error 80080005 is a Windows Update error that arises when Windows can’t communicate with its update servers. It can also occur when certain permissions required for updates are missing.

Generally, you’ll see the error 0x80080005 popup while you download or install updates. It interrupts the process and you won’t be able to complete the update.

Some of the other scenarios where you usually see this error include:

• When you attempt to install a Windows update and it stalls or fails
• During automatic updates
• After restarting your system, Windows attempts an update but cannot proceed

This error is serious because it prevents your system from receiving vital updates. This often translates to missing security patches and bug fixes.

Fortunately, there are several ways to resolve the error 0x80080005. We will cover these methods in detail below.

Causes of Windows Update Error 0x80080005

Before we talk about fixing error 80080005, it is important to understand its causes.

A majority of times, this error occurs due to simple permission issues. But that’s not all. There can be a range of underlying causes. Below is a list of the most common reasons that cause Windows Update Error 0x80080005:

1. Corrupt system files

Critical system files necessary for updates may have been corrupted. This causes the update to fail and the error 0x80080005 to pop up.

2. Insufficient permissions

Windows may lack administrative privileges to apply certain updates.

3. Incomplete previous updates

A previously failed or incomplete update that made the system stop functioning correctly.

4. Misconfigured Windows Update components

Update components or services may be incorrectly configured or corrupted.

5. Antivirus interference

Certain antivirus software may be blocking Windows from connecting to its update servers.

6. Network issues

Problems with your network connection that prevent Windows from downloading updates properly.

7. Low disk space

Windows updates require enough storage space; if you’re low on disk space, this error could occur.

Ways to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80080005

Here are some tried-and-tested methods you can use to resolve error 0x80080005.

Method 1: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built-in tool that detects & fixes update errors. Here’s how you can run the troubleshooter to fix error code 0x80080005.

Step 1: Press Windows + I to open Settings

Step 2: Go to the Update & Security option

Step 3: Select Troubleshoot from the left menu

Step 4: Choose Additional Troubleshooters

Step 5: Click Windows Update

Step 6: Click Run the troubleshooter

Step 7: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

Pro Tip: After running the troubleshooter, restart your system. This helps the changes to take effect.

Method 2: Check Permissions in the SoftwareDistribution Folder

Many times, the error code 0x80080005 occurs due to incorrect file permissions. This method ensures that the SoftwareDistribution folder has the right permissions to function.

Here’s how you can check the permissions:

Step 1: Open File Explorer and navigate to the C: drive

Step 2: Go to the Windows folder

Step 3: Go to the SoftwareDistribution folder

Step 4: Right-click on the folder and select Properties.

Step 5: Go to the Security tab.

Step 6: Click Edit. 

Step 7: Ensure that SYSTEM and Administrators have Full control.

Step 8: Click Apply and close the window.

Method 3: Reset Windows Update Components

Resetting the Windows Update components often helps resolve corruption or configuration issues. It is usually helpful if the error is due to corrupted files in SoftwareDistribution.

To reset the Windows Update components you need to:

Step 1: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.

Step 2: Type “net stop wuauserv” and press Enter.

Step 3: Type “net stop cryptSvc” and press Enter

Step 4: Type “net stop bits” and press Enter

Step 5: Type “net stop msiserver” and press Enter.

Step 6: Type “ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old” and press Enter

Step 7: Type “ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old” and press Enter

Step 8: Type “net start wuauserv” and press Enter

Step 9: Type “net start cryptSvc” and press Enter

Step 10: Type “net start bits” and press Enter

Step 11: Type “net start msiserver” and press Enter

Step 12: Restart your computer.

Pro Tip: Wait for the Command Prompt to yield the responses, before trying to copy/paste the next command.

Method 4: Perform a System File Check (SFC)

The SFC tool scans and repairs corrupted or missing system files, which may be causing the error 80080005. Here’s how you can perform a system file check:

Step 1: Press Windows + S and type cmd

Step 2: Select Command Prompt (Right click and select ‘Run as Administrator)

Step 3: Type sfc/scannow and press Enter.

Step 4: Wait for the scan to complete. If any corrupted files are found, Windows will repair them automatically.

Pro Tip: After completing the SFC scan, restart your system for the changes to take effect.

Method 5: Disable Antivirus Temporarily

Sometimes, antivirus programs interfere with Windows Update processes. Temporarily disabling your antivirus software may help resolve error 0x80080005. To disable your antivirus:

Step 1: Open your antivirus software.

Step 2: Navigate to the settings menu and find the option to disable it temporarily.

Step 3: Disable the antivirus and try running Windows Update again.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to re-enable the antivirus after error 0x80080005 is resolved.

Method 6: Free Up Disk Space

Insufficient disk space can lead to failed updates. Ensuring you have enough free space can resolve the issue.

You can do that by:

Step 1: Press Windows + R

Step 2: Type cleanmgr, and press Enter.

Step 3: Select the C: drive and click OK.

Step 4: Check the boxes next to Temporary files, System files, and other unnecessary items.

Step 5: Click OK, then click Delete Files to confirm.

Regularly running Disk Cleanup using the above steps helps prevent future update issues.

Can Error 0x80080005 Cause Data Loss?

Windows Update Error 0x80080005 in itself doesn’t cause data loss. However, some of the recovery methods may involve accidental data loss. This is more likely with advanced methods like resetting components or running system scans. Also, system files may get corrupted or deleted. Certain methods like resetting Windows Update components may also cause some data loss.

But that doesn’t mean your data is lost forever. There are several data recovery tools available. Stellar data recovery for Windows is one such tool.

With Stellar Windows Data Recovery, you can recover any lost data. This will ensure that your system remains up-to-date and functional without data loss.

We hope you found this guide useful. Next, we will cover some of the commonly asked questions about Windows Update Error 0x80080005. 

FAQs

1. Why do I keep receiving Windows Update Error 0x80080005?

As discussed, there can be many causes of error code 80080005. If you keep receiving the error code 80080005 again and again, it could be due to:

• Corrupt system files
• Incorrect update settings
• Interference from antivirus software.

Fixing the underlying cause using the various methods mentioned above can resolve it.

2. How to prevent error 0x80080005 from occurring again?

There are many ways to prevent error code 80080005. Some of the precautions to take include:

• Ensure that your system files are intact
• Ensure your antivirus software isn’t interfering with updates
• Maintain enough disk space for updates.
• Regularly check for Windows updates
• Run system maintenance tools

These steps can help you avoid error code 80080005.

3. Does Windows Update Error 0x80080005 always cause data loss?

No, the error itself doesn’t typically cause data loss. But certain fixes (like resetting components) may result in unintentional file deletion.

4. Is data loss caused by Windows Update Error 0x80080005 or its fixes reversible?

Yes, data loss can often be reversed using a data recovery tool. 

5. How to fix Windows Update Error 0x80080005 on Windows 10, 11, or other versions?

The steps provided in this guide apply to most Windows versions, including Windows 10 and 11. Some menu names may change but overall the processes remain the same.