Windows Update is an essential component of the Windows operating system that keeps your computer secure and up-to-date with the latest features and bug fixes. However, sometimes users may encounter the windows update error 0x80070643 while trying to install updates. This error can be frustrating, but rest assured, we’re here to help. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the steps to easily fix the (0x80070643) error and get your Windows updates back on track.
- Understanding the Error 0x80070643
- Step 1: Check Your Internet Connection
- Step 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
- Step 3: Clear the Windows Update Cache
- Step 4: Reset the Windows Update Components
- Step 5: Perform a Clean Boot
- Step 6: Check Your Hard Drive Space
- Step 7: Run System File Checker (SFC)
- Step 8: Run DISM
- Step 9: Check for Malware
- Step 10: Manually Download and Install the Update
- When to Seek Professional Help
- Conclusion
Understanding the Error 0x80070643
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s take a moment to understand what the download error – 0x80070643 means. This error usually happens when there’s an issue with the Windows Update service or if the update files are corrupted. It can also happen if there are issues with your internet connection or if your computer’s system files are damaged.
Step 1: Check Your Internet Connection
The first step in resolving the windows update 0x80070643 error is to ensure that your internet connection is stable. A weak or intermittent connection can cause the update process to fail, resulting in the (0x80070643) error. To check your internet connection:
- Open your web browser and visit several websites.
- If the websites load successfully, your internet connection is working fine.
- If you can’t access any websites, try resetting your router or modem and check again.
Also Read: Easy Steps to Install Wi-Fi Printer on Windows 10
Step 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows comes with a built-in troubleshooter that can help identify and fix issues with the Windows Update service. To run the troubleshooter:
- Just press Windows + I to quickly launch the Settings app.
- Click on “Update & Security.”
- Select “Troubleshoot” from the left-hand menu.
- Click on “Additional troubleshooters.”
- Search “Windows Update” and click/tab on “Run the troubleshooter.”
- Follow the on-screen directions to complete the troubleshooting process.
Step 3: Clear the Windows Update Cache
If the troubleshooter doesn’t resolve the windows update error 0x80070643, the next step is to clear the Windows Update cache. This will force Windows to download fresh update files, which may resolve the download error 0x80070643. To clear the cache:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box instantly.
- Type “services.msc” and press Enter.
- Find the “Windows Update” service, right-click it, and choose/select “Stop.”
- Open File Explorer and navigate to “C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution.”
- Remove all files and folders from the “SoftwareDistribution” folder.
- Return to the Services window, right-click on the “Windows Update” service, and choose “Start” to get things moving.
Step 4: Reset the Windows Update Components
If clearing the cache doesn’t help, you can try resetting the Windows Update components. This process involves re-registering the Windows Update files and resetting the associated services. To reset the components:
1. Press Windows + X and choose “Command Prompt (Admin)” to get started!
2. Enter the below commands, pressing Enter after each one to execute them:
- 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
3. Close the Command Prompt and give Windows Update another try.
Step 5: Perform a Clean Boot
If none of the above steps resolve the windows update 0x80070643 error, you can try performing a clean boot. A clean boot starts Windows with minimal drivers and startup programs, which can help identify if any third-party software is interfering with the update process. To perform a clean boot:
- Press Windows + R to instantly open the Run dialog box.
- Type “msconfig” and press Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, go ahead and select the “Services” option!
- Tick the box for “Hide all Microsoft services,” then hit “Disable all” to continue.
- Head to the “Startup” tab and click “Open Task Manager” to continue.
- In Task Manager, disable all startup programs to boost your system’s performance.
- Click “OK” in the System Configuration window, and then restart your computer to apply the changes.
- Try running Windows Update again. If the update completes successfully, it means a third-party program was interfering. Gradually re-enable services and startup items, restarting your computer after each group, to identify the culprit.
Also Read: How to Permanently Disable Remote Desktop on Windows
Step 6: Check Your Hard Drive Space
Insufficient hard drive space can also prevent Windows updates from installing successfully. Ensure you have sufficient free space on your hard drive—ideally at least 20GB. You can find out your hard drive space by:
- Opening File Explorer.
- Right-clicking on your hard drive (usually C:).
- Selecting “Properties.”
Step 7: Run System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted system files can also cause Windows Update errors. The System File Checker (SFC) is a utility tool that scans for and repairs corrupted system files. To run SFC:
- Press Windows + X and choose “Command Prompt (Admin)” to get started right away.
- Type
sfc /scannow
and press Enter. - Let the process complete. This may take some time.
- Restart your computer and give Windows Update another shot.
Step 8: Run DISM
The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can effectively repair corrupted system images. If SFC doesn’t resolve the issue, try running DISM:
- Press Windows + X and choose “Command Prompt (Admin)” to get started.
- Type
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
and press Enter. - Let the process complete. This may take a considerable amount of time.
- Reboot your computer and try running Windows Update once more!
Step 9: Check for Malware
Malware can sometimes interfere with Windows Update. Run a full system scan with your available antivirus software to ensure your computer is free of Virus.
Step 10: Manually Download and Install the Update
As a last resort, you can try manually downloading and installing the update. Go to the Microsoft Update Catalog website (https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/), search for the update you need, download it, and install it manually.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried all of the above steps and are still unable to resolve the windows update error 0x80070643, it’s best to seek professional help. A qualified technician can diagnose the problem and provide a more tailored solution. The error could indicate a more serious underlying issue with your system.
Conclusion
The 0x80070643 error can be frustrating, but it’s not impossible to fix. By following the methods outlined in this article, you should be able to fix the error and get Windows Update working again. Remember to always run the Windows Update Troubleshooter first, as this can often fix common issues with Windows Update. If you’re still experiencing problems, try the additional tips and methods outlined in this article.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the 0x80070643 error:
Q: What is the 0x80070643 error?
A: The 0x80070643 error is a Windows Update error that occurs when the Windows Update service fails to install updates.
Q: How do I fix the 0x80070643 error?
A: To fix the 0x80070643 error, try running the Windows Update Troubleshooter, repairing the.NET Framework, resetting the Windows Update components, and manually installing updates.
Q: What causes the 0x80070643 error?
A: The 0x80070643 error can be caused by a variety of factors, including corrupted system files, incorrect registry settings, malware infections, and insufficient disk space.
Q: Can I fix the 0x80070643 error myself?
A: Yes, you can try to fix the 0x80070643 error yourself by following the methods outlined in this article. However, if you’re not comfortable with troubleshooting and fixing errors, it’s recommended to seek the help of a professional.