Error Code 0x80072EFD is a system error in Windows 10 that occurs during application updates — for Microsoft Edge, Office, or other applications.
This guide explains why the error happens and the steps you can take to resolve it.
What Causes Error Code 0x80072EFD?
The main cause is a communication breakdown with the update server, usually due to an internet connectivity disruption. You can check this using the Command Prompt with the nslookup command, which verifies whether your computer can resolve and reach the destination server by name.
When you check for application updates, the connection between your computer and Microsoft’s servers can also fail because of security settings — firewall or antivirus configurations sometimes block the communication needed to check for and download updates. Make sure your security software is allowing this connection.
Here’s how to fix Error Code 0x80072EFD:
Restart the affected application
Open Task Manager, right-click the process for the affected application, and select End Task. Reopen the app and try the update again.
Restart the Windows Update service
Open Windows Services and look for Windows Update under the system tab — it’s commonly listed as “wuauserv.” Right-click it and select Restart.
Run System File Checker
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run sfc /scannow to scan for and repair corrupted system files that could be interfering with updates.
Restart and check for updates
Restart your computer, then check for updates again to see if Error Code 0x80072EFD still appears.
Repair Windows
If the error persists, try repairing Windows using the built-in repair tools to resolve any deeper system issues causing the problem.
Still Seeing the Error?
If you’re not comfortable repairing Windows yourself, or the error continues after trying all five steps, our experts are here to assist you — Chat with a specialist — and they’ll help resolve the issue.
We are an independent technical support provider and are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Microsoft.
FAQ
What causes Error Code 0x80072EFD?
It’s typically caused by a communication breakdown between your computer and the update server, often due to an internet connectivity issue or security software blocking the connection.
What does the nslookup command check for?
It checks whether your computer can resolve a server’s name to its address and reach it — useful for confirming whether a connectivity issue is causing the update error.
Can firewall or antivirus settings cause this error?
Yes. Security software can block the connection needed to check for or download updates, which triggers this error even with a working internet connection.
Will running SFC /scannow fix this error?
It can help if corrupted system files are contributing to the problem, though this error is more often tied to connectivity or security settings than file corruption alone.
Tags: error code 0x80072EFD, windows update error 0x80072EFD
