How to Fix the 0x8000ffff Windows 10 Update Error With Ease

Jack

By Jack

Update on

0x8000ffff

If your computer has Microsoft Windows as the Operating System, Updates at regular intervals are pretty common.

Microsoft releases updates from time to time to fix the bugs in their operating system or to introduce some new features to keep up with the digital change.

It is best always to use the updated version of the Windows Operating System to enjoy the benefits of smooth working and get the bugs fixed.

However, many of the users get the error 0x8000ffff on Windows 10 quite frequently. It may be mentioned here that it is not the fault of your operating system, but it occurs due to numerous third-party software that all of us need to work with our computers.

The operating system scans the computer and prompts with 0x8000ffff errors. One of the significant sources of this error prompt is any antivirus loaded on your computer apart from Windows defender, faulty software installations, and, of course, after a system update.

All these 0x8000ffff Windows update errors can be fixed to make your computer free from glitches and work efficiently with it. There are multiple solutions, and let us probe into how to overcome the 0x8000ffff Windows update errors. 

However, before we proceed further, let us see what else can cause this error in your Windows Operating system. 

The Primary Causes of the 0x8000ffff Windows 10 Update Error

0x8000ffff Windows 10 errors can be caused due to many reasons apart from the three most significant causes mentioned already. This error can be due to Malware infection, Incorrect setting of date and time, out-of-date faulty drivers of many third-party applications, and a Corrupted or Missing file system.

The problem can also occur due to corrupted registry entries, limited access, unnecessary driver processes, and Windows store app problems.

In general, the 0x8000ffff error occurs after updating the Windows Operating System and locking the Windows Store. But, again, the error can happen after system restoration if needed or while installing any downloaded new application on your PC.

The best part is that the error can be fixed, and let us discuss how to fix it so that you do not need to burn your pockets by calling a professional and fixing it.

PS: if you are experiencing the issues like Windows Update Error 0x800705b4, here are the top solutions for you.


Fixing the 0x8000ffff Windows 10 Error in Different Ways

The 0x8000ffff error can happen in many instances, and each of them can be solved with particular commands and actions. 

● Solving by Restarting the Computer

If you are trying to create a new system restore point or go to a good configuration system restore point, it is best to restart the computer while stopping the background services and the startup programs. One needs to follow specific steps to do so.

First, go to your Windows 10 Start Menu under the Windows Administrative tools. Now open the System Configuration Application. Go to the “Service” tab and then click the “Hide all Microsoft Services” prompt. Next, select the “Disable All” icon and click it. It will disable all the “Startup” services.

Disable Startup Services to Fix the 0x8000ffff Windows 10 Update Error

Now, click the “StartUp” tab followed by “Open Task Manager.” Disable all startup processes and services to get rid of the error. When you have finished the above processes, it is time to restart the computer.

Turn off the third-party antivirus software on your computer to create a new one or go to an existing system restore point. After the restore point is created, activate all the startup programs & services. When it is finished, again restart your computer.  

● Fixing the Error During Software Installation

If any of your software installations is incomplete, you might face the 0x8000ffff windows 10 errorAgain incomplete uninstall of any software can create an error.

It generally happens when there are some remnants of previously installed software and your uninstall process before the installation of the new software is incomplete. Therefore, one should follow some steps to rectify the error. 

After turning off the third-party antivirus software or the scanners for malware, close all the running applications. Now, go to Windows settings, select “Apps & Features,” and completely uninstall the program. One can also go to the “Start” menu and right-click on it to go to this feature and uninstall the desired application.

Next, delete the application along with the remnants, if any, with the command “.\Users\\AppData\Roaming,” “.\Program Files,” “.\Program Files (x86),” and “.\Users\\AppData\Local” directories with deleting the folders for the earlier created program. Now, use the “Registry Editor” to search the entries in the “Registry.” You will get it under “HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software” and “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software.” Remove them from the registry.

Again, one should also empty the temporary directory. For that type “.\Temp,” “.\Windows\Temp” and “.\Users\AppData\Local\Temp.” and empty the directory. When all the above processes are complete, it is time to restart the computer.

After restarting the pc, again disable the third-party antivirus software. Now reinstall your desired program and again restart your computer. Most likely, your error 0x8000ffff will not be there. 

● Fixing Errors Due to Corrupted Files with Command-Line Program

Corrupted file systems can be one of the causes of 0x8000ffff Windows 10 errors. It is repairable with the “Command Line Program” and the tool through “DISM” and “Windows File Checker.”

Both of these came with your Windows 10 Operating System and launched through the Command-Line. Note that they do not have any graphical interface for the user.

One Should Follow the Below Steps to Get Rid of Error 0x8000ffff. 

Select the “Windows” icon on your keyboard or the “Windows” icon on the taskbar and open the “Start” menu. Select “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” or “Command Prompt (Admin)” and click it.

Command Prompt (Admin)

Only one of the two options will be prompted as it depends on the configuration of the Windows. One should know the configuration before starting the process.

Now on the Command line tool, type “DISM /Online /Cleanup-image /Scanhealth.” Tap “Enter” on your keyboard. This tool will begin to search for faults by scanning the system. 

DISM /Online /Cleanup-image /Scanhealth

If there is no error, then a prompt “No component store corruption detected.” If this happens, then you do not need to go to the next step.

If any error is prompted on the screen, then o the Command line, type “DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth” and tap the “Enter” key.

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

The detected errors will be nullified to restore the good health of your Windows 10 operating system. However, if you are prompted with “Source File could not be found,” you must use your installation DVD or an ISO file to restore your operating system.

For that, replace the drive letter on our screen with your ISO file or DVD drive with drive letter. When the repair is complete, restart the pc and verify the status again with System File Checker following the same Command line typing. Then, your error problem will most probably be solved.

● Going Error-free with Windows Update 

 In the Windows 10 Operating System, one can find “Update & Security Troubleshoot or Trouble Shooter.” It helps the user to fix the problems in the operating system automatically.

For example, if you are experiencing a 0x8000ffff Windows 10 error, then a standard update can fix the problem. It is one of the most user-friendly tools to get your error problems resolved. 

Start your computer and then tap the “Windows key + I” or the “Settings” in the “Start” menu. Then click “Run the Troubleshooter.” Give some time to your pc. The application will run automatically, and the user as to do nothing.

After the Windows 10 operating system finishes the operation, a message will be displayed on your computer screen about the status of the problem. The operating system will give the message of whether it has resolved the error or not. One can try this method to fix the problems in their computer. 

Run the troubleshooter to Fix the 0x8000ffff Windows 10 Update Error

● 0x8000ffff Error Fixing with the Script for Reset Windows Update Agent

With regular research and development, Microsoft, the Windows 10 operating system developer, has used various tools, tips of command lines, registry hacks, and others so that the errors during the update can be eliminated.

These data get collected in the Windows support database and are grouped in a script. It is one of the most supportive tools even if the Windows update through the “Settings” fails. 

One can find the tools for resetting the updated components, registry cleaning, deleting temporary files, checking the protected system file, and deleting the temporary files. It is a well-organized menu based on the text for everyone’s use.

The “Reset Windows Update Agent Script” always uses the latest versions of the desired tools as it automatically gets downloaded from time to time. One should unzip the downloaded file and save it in a folder.

Right-click on the folder, and becoming an administrator, type “ResetWUEng.cmd“. You should turn off the third-party antivirus or malware software on your computer to avoid blocking the changes in the system.

Next, run the individual suite components. Run components 1 to 11, one at a time, and never skip any component. You will likely get rid of the errors in your system. 

● Setting the Time and Date

Although many users feel that setting the correct date and time is a minor issue and can be neglected, it can often cause problems in your system’s operation and pop up 0x8000ffff Windows 10 errors.  

At the bottom right corner of the taskbar, you will get the date and time; right-click on them. Now, from the drop-down menu, select “Adjust date/time.”

Adjust date/time

Next, find “Set time automatically” and disable it. After waiting for some time, enable the option.

Adjust Date & Time to Fix the 0x8000ffff Windows 10 Update Error

After the date and time are updated, one can update the Windows Operating System and eliminate the error 0x8000ffff.

● Using a Third-party Application

The most interesting part of 0x8000ffff Windows update error is that it generally begins with installing many third-party applications and can be gotten rid of the error using another third-party software. First, download any of the best pc repairing software tools and install them.

Now, open the downloaded application and scan your computer. It will restore your faulty drivers and other issues that are affecting the smooth running of your computer. First, however, make sure to download the best third-party application to restore your computer to an exemplary configuration.

● Booting in Safe Mode and Networking

One can boot the computer in the safe mode and the networking option. Click the “Start Menu” and open “Settings.’ Now, select “Update & Security.” Next, click “Recovery,” and then under the “Advanced Startup,” select “Restart Now.” As your computer restarts, choose “Troubleshoot” and then open “Advanced Options.”

Booting in Safe Mode and Networking
Booting in Safe Mode and Networking

Select “Startup Settings” and click “Restart.”

Startup Settings
Fix the 0x8000ffff Windows 10 Update Error in SafeMode

Once the computer restarts, you will be prompted with “Safe mode with networking.” Select it from the list and update your Operating system to get rid of the error 0x8000ffff.

● Reset Windows 10

If none of the previous solutions work, you can consider resetting Windows 10. This option will reinstall Windows while keeping your personal files intact. However, it will remove all installed applications. Remember to back up your important data before proceeding with this solution.

To reset Windows 10, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Click on Update & Security.
  3. Select Recovery from the left sidebar.
  4. Under the Reset this PC section, click on Get started.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.

FAQs

1. Can I ignore the 0x8000ffff Windows 10 Update Error and continue using my computer?

It is not recommended to ignore the update error as it can leave your system vulnerable to security threats and may cause compatibility issues with certain applications. It’s best to address the error and ensure your system is up to date.

2. Will resetting Windows 10 delete all my files?

No, resetting Windows 10 will keep your personal files intact. However, it will remove all installed applications, so it’s important to back up your data before proceeding.

3. How long does it take to run the Windows Update Troubleshooter?

The duration of running the Windows Update Troubleshooter can vary depending on the complexity of the issue. It usually takes a few minutes to complete the troubleshooting process.

4. Why does the 0x8000ffff Windows 10 Update Error occur?

The error can occur due to various reasons, including corrupted system files, incompatible drivers, antivirus or firewall interference, insufficient disk space, and more.

5. Can I prevent the 0x8000ffff Windows 10 Update Error from happening again?

While there’s no foolproof way to prevent update errors, you can minimize the chances by keeping your system up to date, regularly scanning for malware, maintaining sufficient disk space, and ensuring you have compatible drivers and software.

Conclusion

No one can predict when your pc will prompt you with a 0x8000ffff Windows update error. However, it is a common error, and one should not panic about any data breach.

Most of the time, any third-party software installed on the pc or the drivers is responsible for this error. One can follow any of the above methods to eliminate this error so that the computer is error-free.

Any of the above methods might work to get rid of this error. Try the processes along with running any of the best third-party restoration software and feel the difference.

There is no need to call an expert before you have tried the above methods and have failed to restore the Operating System. The majority of the time, you can fix the problems following any of the above processes.

Jack
Jack

Ten years of experience in information and computer technology. Passionate about electronic devices, smartphones, computers, and modern technology.

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