How to Fix Windows Update Error Code 0x80246017

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.

In some cases, restarting the update service is enough to resolve the error. However, 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 Windows Update error, including:

• Problems with the Windows Update service
• Unstable internet connectivity
• Corrupted or incomplete update files
• Damaged Windows system files
• Third-party antivirus or firewall interference
• Corrupted Windows Update cache
• Incorrect Windows Update components or settings

Try the solutions below in order. Start with the simpler troubleshooting steps before moving to system repairs.

How to Fix Windows Update Error Code 0x80246017

1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows includes built-in troubleshooting tools that can detect common update problems. The steps vary slightly depending on which version you use.

For Windows 11:

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

For Windows 10:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
3. Select Additional troubleshooters.
4. Choose Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.

After the troubleshooting process finishes, restart your computer and check for updates again.

Once the process finishes, restart your computer. Then, check for updates again.

2. Check Your Internet Connection

Windows Update needs a stable connection to download update files. A weak or interrupted connection can cause the installation to fail.

First, open several websites to confirm that your internet connection works normally. If possible, restart your router and reconnect your computer.

You should also temporarily disconnect from a VPN or proxy server. Afterward, try Windows Update again.

If Windows Update continues to experience connection problems, our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x8024402C covers related network, proxy, and update-service issues.

3. Restart the Windows Update Service

The Windows Update service may become stuck or stop responding. Restarting it can clear a temporary service problem.

1. Press Windows + R.
2. Type services.msc.
3. Press Enter.
4. Find Windows Update in the list.
5. Right-click the service.
6. Select Restart.

If the service is stopped, select Start instead.

Restart your computer after making the change. Then, open Windows Update and check for available updates.

4. Check the Background Intelligent Transfer Service

The Background Intelligent Transfer Service, or BITS, helps Windows transfer files in the background.

1. Open the Services app.
2. Find Background Intelligent Transfer Service.
3. Right-click it and select Properties.
4. Make sure the service is not disabled.
5. If necessary, select Start.
6. Click OK.

Try Windows Update again after restarting BITS.

5. Run System File Checker

Damaged Windows system files can interfere with update operations. System File Checker can scan protected 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:

sfc /scannow

5. Wait until the scan reaches 100%.
6. Restart your computer.

If SFC reports that it could not repair some files, continue with the DISM method below.

6. Run DISM

The Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool can repair problems with the Windows component store.

Open Command Prompt as administrator and run these commands separately:

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /CheckHealth

Then run:

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /ScanHealth

Finally, run:

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /RestoreHealth

Allow each command to finish before starting the next one. The RestoreHealth command may take some time.

Restart your computer after the process finishes. Then, check Windows Update again.

If corrupted system files continue to cause update failures, see our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x800F0900 for additional troubleshooting.

7. Temporarily Disable Third-Party Antivirus Software

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

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

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

If the update works while the software is disabled, review its settings or contact the software provider for further assistance.

8. Reset Windows Update Components

A damaged update cache can prevent Windows from downloading or installing updates correctly. Resetting the Windows Update components can rebuild this cache.

Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:

net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver

Next, rename the update folders:

ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old

Then restart the services:

net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver

Restart your computer after completing these commands. Open Windows Update and try the installation again.

If Windows Update reports missing or corrupted files, see our guide to Error Code 80073712 for another related solution.

9. Check for Windows Updates Again

After completing the troubleshooting steps, check for updates again.

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 complete the download and installation process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Windows Update Error Code 0x80246017 mean?

Error Code 0x80246017 indicates that Windows encountered a problem while downloading or installing an update. Windows Update services, network connectivity, corrupted files, or security software can contribute to the problem.

Can restarting Windows Update services fix 0x80246017?

Yes. A stuck or unresponsive Windows Update service can prevent updates from downloading correctly. Restarting the service is a useful early troubleshooting step.

Can SFC and DISM fix this error?

They can help when damaged Windows system files or component-store problems are contributing to the update failure. Run SFC first, followed by DISM if necessary.

Should I reset Windows if 0x80246017 continues?

A Windows reset should not be the first solution. Try the troubleshooting methods in this guide before considering a reset or clean installation.

Conclusion

Windows Update Error Code 0x80246017 can occur when Windows has trouble downloading or installing updates. Network problems, update services, corrupted files, security software, and damaged update components can all contribute to the issue.

Start by running the Windows Update Troubleshooter and checking your internet connection. Next, restart the Windows Update and BITS services. If the error continues, run SFC and DISM, then reset the Windows Update components.

After completing these steps, check Windows Update again. In many cases, the update can be installed without resetting or reinstalling Windows.