Windows Update Error Code 0x80246017 can prevent Windows from downloading or installing available updates. The problem may occur because of Windows Update service issues, corrupted update files, network problems, or security software conflicts. A similar failure is covered in our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x8024002D.
In some cases, restarting the update service is enough to resolve it. Persistent problems may require system-file repairs or a reset of the Windows Update components.
What Causes Windows Update Error Code 0x80246017?
Several issues can cause this error, including problems with the Windows Update service, unstable internet connectivity, corrupted or incomplete update files, damaged system files, third-party antivirus interference, a corrupted update cache, or incorrect update components or settings. Start with the simpler troubleshooting steps first. Updates that fail to install for similar reasons are also covered in Windows Error Code 0x80240022.
Here’s how to fix Error Code 0x80246017:
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 once it finishes, then check for updates again.
Check your internet connection
Open a few websites to confirm your connection works normally, restart your router if needed, and temporarily disconnect from any VPN or proxy. If connection problems continue, see our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x8024402C.
Restart the Windows Update service
Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter. Find “Windows Update,” right-click it, and select Restart (or Start if it’s stopped). Restart your computer and check for updates.
Check the Background Intelligent Transfer Service
Open the Services app, find “Background Intelligent Transfer Service,” right-click it, select Properties, confirm it’s not disabled, click Start if needed, and click OK. Try the update again. A related BITS-based failure is covered in Windows Update Error Code 0x80246008.
Run System File Checker
Press Win + S, search for Command Prompt, right-click it and select “Run as administrator,” then run sfc /scannow. Wait until the scan reaches 100% and restart. If SFC can’t repair some files, continue with DISM. Make sure your system drive has enough free space for the repair — see Windows Update Error Code 0x80070070.
Run DISM
In an elevated Command Prompt, run each command separately, letting each finish first:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /CheckHealth
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /ScanHealth
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /RestoreHealth
Restart your computer once complete. If corrupted system files continue causing failures, see our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x800F0900.
Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software
If you use third-party security software, temporarily disable its protection and check for updates again — don’t leave your system unprotected for longer than necessary, and re-enable it after testing.
Reset Windows Update components
In an elevated Command Prompt, 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 try the installation again. If Windows reports missing or corrupted files, see our guide to Error Code 80073712.
Still Not Resolved?
A Windows reset shouldn’t be your first solution — try these troubleshooting methods before considering a reset or clean installation. Our experts are here to assist you — Chat with a specialist — for more technical support.
We are an independent technical support provider and are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Microsoft.
FAQ
What does Windows Update Error Code 0x80246017 mean?
It indicates Windows encountered a problem while downloading or installing an update — update services, network connectivity, corrupted files, or security software can contribute.
Can restarting the Windows Update service fix this error?
Yes, in some cases. If the service is stopped or not responding correctly, restarting it from the Services app and checking for updates again can resolve the issue.
Can antivirus software cause this error?
Yes. Third-party security software can sometimes interfere with Windows Update — temporarily disabling it helps determine whether it’s the cause.
Should I reset Windows to fix this error?
No, not as a first step. Try the troubleshooter, service checks, SFC, DISM, and update component reset before considering a reset or clean installation.
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