Fix Windows Update Error 0x8007007e in 9 Easy Ways

Fix Windows Update Error 0x8007007e in 9 Easy Ways

/ James Masterson

What is Windows Error Code 0x8007007e?

Error Code 0x8007007e is a common error message that can appear on Windows operating systems, particularly when attempting to install or update software or access certain features or settings. This error can be frustrating and can prevent users from completing important tasks on their computers.

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Understanding what causes the error and how to fix it can be crucial to maintaining the smooth functioning of your system. In this article, we will discuss Error Code 0x8007007e and the possible reasons and solutions for this error.

Reasons for Windows Update Error Code 0x8007007e

There are several reasons why you might encounter Windows 10 Update Error Code 0x8007007e. Below are some of the causes of this Windows update error:

  • Corrupted System Files: Corrupted system files can cause issues with the Windows update process, leading to this error.
  • Outdated Drivers: Outdated or incompatible drivers can also cause issues with the Windows update process.
  • Insufficient Storage Space: If your system does not have enough storage space to complete the update, you may encounter this error.
  • Network Connectivity Issues: If your computer is not able to connect to the internet or the Windows update servers, you may see error 0x8007007e.
  • Third-Party Software Conflicts: Third-party software, such as antivirus or firewall programs, can sometimes interfere with the Windows update process and causes this error.
  • Windows Update Service is not Running: If the Windows Update service is not running, it may cause 0x8007007e.

How to Fix Error Code 0x8007007e

Windows Update Error 0x8007007e can prevent users from updating their Windows operating system, hindering productivity. This error can have various causes and finding the correct solution can be challenging. Below are troubleshooting steps and possible solutions to help fix this error and get your Windows updates running smoothly again.

Solution 1. Disable Third-party Antivirus Programs and Windows Firewalls

It is not generally recommended to disable antivirus programs on your computer as they play an important role in protecting your computer from various security threats. However, if the interference of antivirus software causes the Windows 10 update error code 0x8007007e, it may be necessary to disable them temporarily.

Once the Windows 10 update is completed, you can re-enable the antivirus program. To disable your antivirus program, you can follow these steps:

1. Locate the antivirus program icon in the system tray (on the bottom right corner) and right-click on it >> select the option to disable the program.

2. Open the Control Panel by searching for it in the Windows Cortana search box.

system and security

3. Once the Control Panel is open, navigate to System and Security, then click on Windows Defender Firewall (Windows Firewall).

select the windows defender firewall

4. From the left window, click Turn Windows Firewall on or off.

turn off windows firewall

5. Select the option to turn off the Windows Firewall and restart your computer. After that try to open windows update and see if you are able to fix the Windows Update Error 0x8007007e.

turn off windows firewall option

Solution 2. Update Printer Drivers

Updating outdated or corrupted device drivers can help resolve various issues on your Windows system, including the Windows update error 0x8007007e. This can be done manually by accessing the Device Manager on your computer, or by using an automatic driver updater software.

1. Press the Windows key and in the search bar, type Device Manager and click on the Device Manager option that appears.

search device manager

2. In the Device Manager window, locate the printer device and right-click on the device driver’s name.

update printer driver

3. Select Update Driver from the context menu. In the next window, choose the option Search automatically for drivers.

search automatically for network adapter

4. The system will then search for available drivers. Keep a stable internet connection.

5. Once the installation is complete, restart your Windows system to finish the process.

Solution 3. Perform a Clean Boot

A software conflict can also lead to the Windows Update error 0x8007007e in Windows 10. One way to determine if a third-party software or service is causing the issue is by performing a clean boot.

A clean boot is a process that starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, allowing you to identify and troubleshoot issues related to software conflicts. To implement this solution, here are your steps:

1. Press the Windows + R keys together.

2. Type msconfig in the Run window >> press OK. This will prompt this window.

msconfig

3. Click on the Services tab >> select the box Hide All Microsoft Services.

4. Select Disable All to disable all non-Microsoft services.
Note: If there is no Disable All option, click on Open Task Manager then select each task one by one and click on Disable

hide all microsoft services 1

5. Restart your computer.

6. On the System Configuration window, uncheck the box that says Don’t show this message or launch the System Configuration when I start Windows.

Solution 4. Repair Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files can also be a cause of the Windows 10 update error code 0x8007007e. To repair Windows Update and fix system file corruption, you can follow these steps:

1. Open the Windows Cortana search box and type in cmd. Right-click on the top result >> choose Run as administrator.

run as admin cmd

2. In the command prompt, enter the following DISM command: dism.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth

dism restorehealth

3. Press Enter.

4. Once the DISM command is finished, enter the following SFC command and press Enter: sfc /scannow

sfc scan

Solution 5. Reset Windows Update Components

The Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) is a Windows service that is responsible for transferring files in the background. Sometimes, for unknown reasons, the BITS service may stop working, which can prevent the Windows Update service from functioning properly resulting in error code 0x8007007e. Follow the steps below to start the reset:

1. Press the Windows + X keys together.

2. Click on Command Prompt (Admin).

command prompt admin

3. In the Command Prompt, type the commands found below >> press Enter after each one:

net stop bits

net stop wuauserv

net stop appidsvc

net stop cryptsvc

net stop commands

4. Type the command below to delete all the qmgr*.dat files created by BITS from your PC. and press Enter: Del “%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\*.*”

5. Next, type the following commands to rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders and press Enter after each one:
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old

ren catroot2

6. Then start the services again by typing the following commands and pressing Enter after each one:
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver

7. Close the Command Prompt.

Solution 6. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built-in tool that can help resolve many update errors, including error code 0x8007007e. If you’re experiencing problems with Windows Update, you can try using the Windows Update Troubleshooter to fix it. Follow the steps listed below:

1. Go to the official Microsoft website and search for Windows Update Troubleshooter.

windows update troubleshooter homepage

2. Click on the Download troubleshooter for Windows 10 button to download the setup file.

3. Run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the troubleshooter.

4. Once the installation is complete, run a scan with the troubleshooter.

5. If the troubleshooter detects any Windows updates issues, it will automatically try to fix them.

Solution 7. Download NET Framework 4.7 Offline Installer for Windows

net framework offline installer

The 0x8007007e error in Windows 10 can be caused by a missing or damaged Microsoft NET Framework 4.7 package. To resolve this issue, you can download and install the Microsoft NET Framework 4.7 offline installer package. Do the steps found below to start the download:

  1. Go to the Microsoft Download Center and download the NET Framework 4.7 offline installer package.
  2. Run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions for installation.
  3. Once the installation is complete, proceed to restart your PC.
  4. After restarting, try to install the required update again. The problem should be resolved.

Solution 8. Clear Windows Update Cache

Clearing the Windows Update cache removes the temporary files and data that can potentially cause issues with the Windows Update process. Clearing the cache can also help resolve issues related to downloading and installing updates.

To clear the Windows Update cache, here are your steps:

1. Open File Explorer via the Search box.

2. Locate and right-click on the Local Disk (C) and select Properties.

open disk properties

3. Click on Disk Clean-up, and then select Clean up system files.

clean up system

4. Check the boxes for Windows upgrade log files and Temporary Windows Installation files and click OK.

5. Press the Windows + R keys at the same time to open the Run dialog box. Type services.msc and press OK to open the Services application.

run services msc command

6. Locate the Windows Update service in the list and right-click to select Stop.

windows update service window

7. Now navigate to C:\ > Windows > SoftwareDistribution. Delete all the files in the folder.

Solution 9. Reinstalling Windows

Reinstalling Windows 10 to its latest version can help fix various issues, including the Windows update error 0x8007007e. The easiest way to do this is to use the built-in feature within the operating system. To do this:

1. Click on the Start button

2. Navigate to Settings

3. Select Update & security

windows update and security

4. Click on Recovery

5. Under Reset this PC select Get started

reset this pc

6. Choose the option Remove everything to make sure all files are cleaned before reinstallation.

Remove Everything

Conclusion

In conclusion, Error Code 0x8007007e can be a frustrating problem for Windows users. It can prevent them from installing or updating software and accessing certain features or settings.

This guide has provided several solutions for resolving this error, such as disabling third-party antivirus programs, updating printer drivers, performing a clean boot, repairing corrupted system files, clearing the Windows Update cache, reinstalling Windows 10, and running the Windows Update Troubleshooter.

Users can regain control of their computers and continue with their important tasks by taking the time to understand and address the root causes of this error.

James Masterson
Meet the author

James is a software engineer and an information architect with a keen eye for detail. Among his key interests are enhancing the usability of our Windows 10 content, troubleshooting errors, and tech news.