Windows Update Error Code 0x80080005 can prevent updates from downloading or installing correctly. The problem may be related to corrupted system files, Windows Update components, security software, or services that aren’t running properly.
You can try several troubleshooting methods before considering a Windows reset.
What Causes Error Code 0x80080005?
Common causes include corrupted or missing Windows system files, problems with Windows Update services, damaged update components or cache files, antivirus or security software interference, incorrect service configuration, or problems with the Windows Update database. Start with the simpler solutions first.
Here’s how to fix Error Code 0x80080005:
Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software
Open your antivirus application, go to Settings or Protection, find Real-time protection, and disable it temporarily. Check for Windows updates again, then re-enable your antivirus after testing. If the update works with it disabled, check the antivirus settings for features that may be blocking Windows Update.
Run SFC and DISM
Right-click Start, select Terminal (Admin), and run sfc /scannow. Wait for it to finish and restart your computer. If SFC can’t repair some files, run each of these one at a time: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth, then DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth, then DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. Restart and check Windows Update again. For repeated failures caused by system-file corruption, see our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x800F0900.
Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows 11: Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters → Windows Update → Run.
Windows 10: Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot → Additional troubleshooters → Windows Update → Run the troubleshooter.
Restart your computer and check for updates again.
Check Windows Update services
Press Win + R, type services.msc, press Enter, find “Windows Update,” double-click it, set Startup type to Automatic, click Start if it’s not running, and click Apply then OK. Also check Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) and Cryptographic Services. Restart your computer and try Windows Update again.
Reset Windows Update components
Open Terminal (Admin) and run:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
Restart your computer and check for updates. If updates still fail after this, see our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x8024A206.
Check your internet connection
A reliable connection is important for downloading update files — an unstable one can cause the download to fail or become incomplete. Try restarting your router or connecting to another network. For network, proxy, firewall, or update-service issues specifically, see our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x8024402C.
Reset Windows Only as a Last Resort
If none of the troubleshooting methods work, back up your important documents, photos, and other personal files first, then use “Reset this PC” — Settings → System → Recovery → Reset PC on Windows 11, or Settings → Update & Security → Recovery → Get started on Windows 10. Use this option only after trying the less disruptive troubleshooting methods above. Our experts are here to assist you — Chat with a specialist — for more technical support.
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FAQ
What does error 0x80080005 mean?
It indicates Windows Update encountered a problem preventing it from completing normally — corrupted system files, services, update components, and security software can all contribute.
Can SFC fix this update error?
SFC can repair certain corrupted or damaged system files. If it can’t resolve the problem, running DISM provides another way to repair the Windows component store.
Should I disable my antivirus permanently?
No. Disable third-party antivirus protection only temporarily for troubleshooting, and re-enable it right after testing Windows Update.
Do I need to reset Windows?
Usually not as a first solution. Try repairing system files, checking services, running the troubleshooter, and resetting Windows Update components first.
Tags: 0x80070002, 0x80080005, 80070103, Error Code 80072f78, KB9199275, Windows Update Error 0x80080005
