How to Fix: Windows Update Error 0x800700c1

Windows updates are crucial for keeping your operating system up to date, ensuring the smooth functioning of your device, and maintaining the highest level of security. However, like any other software, Windows updates can sometimes face issues, one of which is the error code 0x800700c1.

This error can manifest itself in various ways, including update failures, system slowdowns, and functionality issues. In this article, we will discuss the common reasons behind this Windows update error and provide effective solutions to help you resolve it.

By understanding the underlying causes and following the appropriate troubleshooting steps, you can easily fix the error 0x800700c1 and ensure the seamless functioning of your device.

Common Reasons for Windows Update Error 0x800700c1

Several reasons can cause the Windows update error 0x800700c1 to occur on your device. Identifying the underlying cause is essential to fix the problem effectively. In this section, we will discuss some common reasons behind this error and provide the necessary information to understand the issue better.

1. Corrupted or Missing System Files: One major reason for this error code is the corruption or absence of essential system files required for the smooth running of your device. This usually happens when an installation or removal process goes wrong, leading to the corruption of these files.
2. Outdated or Incompatible Drivers: Another factor contributing to this error is outdated or incompatible device drivers. If the drivers in your system are not aligned with the latest Windows updates, you may encounter issues when trying to install the updates, ultimately resulting in the 0x800700c1 error.
3. Incomplete or Incompatible Windows Update: If the Windows update itself is incomplete or contains bugs, it can lead to error 0x800700c1. In this case, addressing the specific issue with the update can help fix the problem.
4. Malware or Virus Infections: Malware or virus infections can cause multiple issues with your system, including the Windows update error 0x800700c1. Running a thorough scan of your device using reliable antivirus software can help identify and remove any infections.
5. Improper Windows Services Configuration: Windows services are applications that run in the background and support various operating system functions. If some of these services are not configured correctly or are disabled, they can cause issues like the 0x800700c1 error.
6. Issues with the Software Distribution Folder: The software distribution folder stores the temporary files used for Windows updates. If there are any issues with this folder, it can lead to update errors, including error code 0x800700c1.

By understanding the common reasons behind the Windows update error 0x800700c1, you’ll be better equipped to address the issue and resolve it effectively. The solutions provided earlier in this article can help you determine the underlying cause and fix the problem accordingly.

Methods to Repair Windows Update 0x800700c1 Error

Windows Update Troubleshooter

For error codes like error 0x800700c1, explain Windows update errors that may result in device functionality issues. This error may arise from the Windows update service or any temporary Windows update files incompatible with other working services. In this context, using a Windows update troubleshooter can resolve the error. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Launch settings from the Windows main menu and select the update and security option from the settings window.

Step 2: In the update and security window, select the option of troubleshooting, followed by choosing additional troubleshooters.

Step 3: In the troubleshooter window, click on the Window update option and run the troubleshooter. Let the troubleshooter run on the device.

Rename Software Distribution Folder

All system updates are secured in the software distribution folder. This folder communicates with the device according to the newly installed updates. If your device shows error code 0x800700c1, it could be a potential issue with the software distribution folder. Renaming the software distribution folder can fix the problem. Here is how you can perform the action.

Step 1: Start by booting your device in safe mode, and in safe mode, select the troubleshooting option.

Step 2: In the troubleshooting window, select advanced options followed by selecting startup settings.

Step 3: In the startup settings window, select restart and press the F4 key on the keyboard to launch safe mode.

Step 4: Launch the Run utility by clicking the Windows key + R and typing cmd in the command box. Launch the elevated command prompt by clicking Ctrl + Shift + Enter simultaneously.

Step 5: Type the following commands in the prompt and click enter to continue.

net stop wuauserv

net stop bits

net stop cryptSvc

net stop msiserver

Step 6: Launch windows explorer from the main menu and open Folder C, i.e., C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution. Select the particular folder for update and right-click the folder to select rename from the context menu.

Check Windows Services

If Windows services are disabled, you may get an error message like error code 0x800700c1. In this context, checking the Windows app readiness service can help resolve the error. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Launch the Run utility by clicking the Windows key + R simultaneously, and type services.msc in the command box. Click enter to continue. It will launch a services menu.

Step 2: In the services window, select the service app readiness service and right-click to select the properties option.

Step 3: Select the startup type option and set it to automatic. Click start to activate the service.

Step 4: Restart your device to check if the error is resolved.

Windows 10 Update from Media Creation Tool

If the Windows update service is not working correctly on the device or giving an error message, i.e., 0x800700c1, one can efficiently utilize the media creation tool for installing updates. Here is how you can perform a quick fix to resolve the Windows update errors.

Step 1: Launch Microsoft’s official website; it will launch the Windows update if available.

Step 2: If the update is available, click the update option now. It will start downloading the update on the device.

Update Outdated Drivers in Windows

This Windows update error 0x800700c1 may also occur due to outdated or incompatible drivers. Downloading updated drivers or updating Windows drivers can fix the error. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: In the search bar of the Windows main menu, type device manager and double-click the option to launch it. 

Step 2: Check the attached and running devices list in the device manager window. If you see any device with an exclamation mark, right-click the device and select update driver from the context menu. 

Step 3: In the update driver window, select search automatically for drivers. This will initiate searching for any available update linked to the device and its drivers.

Check Corrupted System Files

For running a check on system files and folders, SFC (system file checker) scan is available. It will investigate all system files and folders for any potential system error or file corruption. It can also help to resolve Windows update errors in the case that occur due to any system file corruption. Here is how you can run the scan.

Step 1: Launch the Run utility from Windows key+ R, and in the run command box, type cmd.exe. 

Step 2: Click Ctrl+Shift+Enter simultaneously on the keyboard.

Step 3: It will launch the user’s account control. Click yes to continue. 

Step 4: In the command prompt, type SFC/scannow and click enter to continue. 

Step 5: Restart your device and check if the error persists as the scan completes.

Disable Windows Firewall Temporarily

Sometimes, the Windows update service may give an error, i.e., error 0x800700c1, due to security protection services on the device. Hence, disabling the Windows firewall temporarily can help to fix the error. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Launch Windows firewall from the Window’s main menu. Type Windows firewall in the taskbar’s search box and double-click the option to launch it. It will be launched in the control panel.

Step 2: In Windows Firewall service, click customize settings and turn off the Window defender firewall option. Uncheck the box of the option to disable it. Click ok to continue.

Step 3: Launch Run Utility via Windows key+ R, and type cmd in the run command box. Click ok to continue. Type the following command and click enter to continue.

regsvr32 wuapi.dll
Next: regsvr32 wuaueng.dll
regsvr32 wucltui.dll

Step 4: Restart the device to check if the error is resolved.

Scan for Viruses/Malware with Windows Security

Potential viruses/malware threats on the device can also result in a Windows update error code. One can use Windows security to check the viruses/malware on Windows. Here is how you can detect the virus.

Step 1: Launch settings from the Windows main menu of the device. In the settings menu, select the option of update and security. 

Step 2: In the next window, select the option of Windows security from the left pane. Click the option of virus and threat protection. 

Step 3: In the section on current threats, click on quick scan to initiate. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Error 0x800700cl