Error 0x80070003 can occur while attempting to perform Windows Update on a Windows 10 computer. This error usually occurs when Windows updates cannot be installed, when the installation process is in progress, or when updates are installed but the process cannot be finished completely. There are a number of possible reasons behind error 0x80070003 and in this article, we will cover several possible troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the issue.
Use Windows Update Troubleshooter
The Windows Update Troubleshooter or Microsoft’s Online Windows Update Troubleshooter can be used to detect and fix any conflicts for Windows Updates automatically and fix Windows Update Issues.
Replace old Configuration file Spupdsvc.exe
Spupdsvc.exe is a process file that comes under Microsoft Update RunOnce Service. When an update becomes available for the computer, the process responsible for performing the upgrade is notified. Also, a RunOnce entry is added to the registry for spupdsvc.exe. The process is executed when the computer restarts, and the user logs on.
Open Command Prompt as an administrator to execute the following command:
cmd /c ren %systemroot%\System32\Spupdsvc.exe Spupdsvc.old
It will replace the old configuration of Spupdsvc.exewith a fresh one. Try to rerun Windows Updates and check if your issue t is fixed now.
Temporary Disable Installed Third-Party Antivirus
It is possible that installed antivirus software is interfering with Windows Update and causing Windows Update error code 0x80070003. To ensure that the installed third-party antivirus software is not the source of the problem, we recommend that you try to temporarily disable this software (and its associated firewall). Then try to update Windows again and check if the problem persists. .
Manually reset Windows Update related folders
The ‘SoftwareDistribution’ folder is a temporary folder where Windows will store its update files until they are completely downloaded. This folder could be affecting the update process and can be simply fixed by running a few simple commands to rename the folder.
Open Command Prompt as an administrator and execute the following command:
Run the folling commands
- net stop wuauserv
- ren c:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistributio.Old
- net start wuauserv
Check and Restart all Windows Update-related Windows Services
There are various Windows Services that help and support the function of Windows Updates. You are safe to restart these services as an extra troubleshooting step.
Open the Windows Services Manager and locate the following services:
- Windows Update Service – Manual (Triggered)
- Background Intelligent Transfer Service – Manual.
- Cryptographic Services – Automatic
- Workstation Service – Automatic.
Open their Properties and ensure that their Startup type is as mentioned above against their name and that the Services are running. If not click on the Start button. If Started, select Restart
Check Time And Date Settings
It is possible that Windows cannot be updated due to incorrect time and date settings on your Windows computer. To check these, go to Windows Settings and click on “Time & Language”. Ensure your settings reflect the current Time Zone settings
Run DISM and System File Checker
Open Command Prompt as an administrator and execute the following command:
Run command : sfc /scannow
It will run the System File Checker.
Run Command DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Reboot your computer after the scan has completed and run Windows Update.
