How to Fix Windows Update Error Code 0x80096004

Windows Update Error Code 0x80096004 can appear when Windows cannot verify the digital signature of a file required during an update or installation. Corrupted system files, security software, and damaged Windows components can also contribute to the problem.

When Windows cannot validate a required file, the update may fail before the installation completes. Fortunately, several troubleshooting steps can help identify and resolve the underlying cause.

What Causes Windows Update Error Code 0x80096004?

Several issues can trigger this error. The most common causes include:

• Corrupted or missing Windows system files
• Damaged Windows Update components
• Problems with digital signature verification
• Malware or other unwanted software
• Third-party antivirus or security software
• Problems with Windows Update services
• Network or connectivity issues

Start with the simpler solutions first. If the error remains, continue with the system repair methods below.

How to Fix Windows Update Error Code 0x80096004

1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows includes built-in troubleshooting tools that can detect common update problems. The location varies slightly between Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Windows 11:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select System.
3. Choose Troubleshoot.
4. Select Other troubleshooters.
5. Find Windows Update and click Run.

Windows 10:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Update & Security.
3. Click Troubleshoot.
4. Select Additional troubleshooters.
5. Choose Windows Update and run the troubleshooter.

After the scan finishes, restart your computer. Then, check Windows Update again.

2. Run an SFC Scan

Corrupted system files can interfere with Windows Update and digital signature verification. System File Checker can scan protected Windows files and repair problems it finds.

1. Press Windows + S.
2. Search for Command Prompt.
3. Right-click it and select Run as administrator.
4. Enter the following command:

sfc /scannow

5. Wait for the scan to reach 100%.
6. Restart the computer.

If system-file corruption continues to cause update problems, see our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x800F0900 for additional troubleshooting.

3. Run DISM to Repair Windows Components

If SFC cannot repair all damaged files, use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool.

Open Command Prompt as administrator and run these commands separately:

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /CheckHealth

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /ScanHealth

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /RestoreHealth

Allow each command to finish before running the next one. The final command may take some time.

Once the process completes, restart your computer and try Windows Update again.

4. Temporarily Check Third-Party Security Software

Third-party antivirus or security software can sometimes interfere with Windows Update or file verification.

If you installed third-party antivirus software, temporarily disable its protection and check for updates again.

Do not leave your computer unprotected for longer than necessary. Re-enable the security software after testing.

If the update works after disabling the security program, check its settings or contact the software provider for further guidance.

5. Check Your Internet Connection

A stable internet connection is important when Windows downloads update files and communicates with Microsoft’s update servers.

First, open a few websites to confirm that your connection works normally. If possible, restart your router and reconnect the computer.

You should also disconnect any VPN temporarily. Corporate proxy settings can cause similar connection problems.

If the problem appears to be related to Windows Update connectivity, see our guide to Error Code 0x80240438 for additional troubleshooting.

6. Restart Windows Update Services

Windows Update depends on several background services. Restarting them can resolve temporary service problems.

1. Press Windows + R.
2. Type services.msc.
3. Press Enter.
4. Find Windows Update.
5. Right-click the service and select Restart.

Also check the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS). Restart it if the service is running but appears to be stuck.

Afterward, restart your computer and check for updates.

7. Reset Windows Update Components

Damaged update files or cached data can prevent Windows Update from completing successfully.

Open Command Prompt as administrator and run these commands one at a time:

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 the computer after running the commands. Then open Windows Update and try the installation again.

If Windows Update continues to report missing or corrupted update files, see our guide to Error Code 80073712 for another related troubleshooting method.

8. Scan Windows for Malware

Malware can modify system files and interfere with normal Windows operations.

Run a Full scan with Windows Security:

1. Open Windows Security.
2. Select Virus & threat protection.
3. Choose Scan options.
4. Select Full scan.
5. Click Scan now.

Remove any detected threats. Then restart the computer and check Windows Update again.

9. Install Windows Updates Again

Once you complete the troubleshooting steps, return to Windows Update.

Windows 11:

Go to Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates.

Windows 10:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates.

Allow Windows to download and install the available updates. Avoid shutting down the computer while the installation is running.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Windows Update Error Code 0x80096004 mean?

The error generally indicates a problem verifying the digital signature of a file required by Windows. Corrupted system files, update components, or security software can contribute to the problem.

Can antivirus software cause Error Code 0x80096004?

Yes. Third-party security software can sometimes interfere with Windows Update or file verification. Temporarily disabling the software can help determine whether it is contributing to the problem.

Can SFC fix Error Code 0x80096004?

SFC can help when corrupted Windows system files are responsible for the error. Run sfc /scannow from an elevated Command Prompt and restart the computer afterward.

Should I reset Windows to fix this error?

A Windows reset should not be your first option. Try the troubleshooting methods above before considering a reset or clean installation.

Conclusion

Windows Update Error Code 0x80096004 can prevent updates when Windows cannot verify required files correctly. Start with the Windows Update Troubleshooter and an SFC scan. If those steps do not help, use DISM, check security software, restart Windows Update services, and reset the update components.

After completing the repairs, check Windows Update again. In many cases, these steps can resolve the underlying problem without reinstalling Windows.