What Causes Windows Update Error 0x80073701?
Windows Update Error 0x80073701 is a very common issue that many Windows users face when trying to update their system. There are a few different things that can cause this error, but the most likely one is corrupted system files. Other reasons can include other corrupt files, faulty or missing Windows Update components, and malware. If you’re trying to install the latest updates on your Windows 10/11 system and keep getting the error code 0x80073701, follow the below steps.
1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
The Windows Update troubleshooter is a built-in tool that can help fix common problems with Windows Update. It may not solve every issue with updates, but it can address many of them. To run the troubleshooter, follow these steps: This will open the Windows Update program, which will then begin searching for relevant issues. It will take some time for the troubleshooter to complete its work, but if it finds and fixes any problems, you’ll get notified.
2. Run System File Checker
If you’re getting the 0x80073701 error when trying to update Windows, it’s likely because of a corrupted system file. You can use the System File Checker tool to repair missing or corrupted system files and see if it solves the issue. The steps below will guide you through running this tool: Once the process is complete, restart your computer and try installing Windows Update.
3. Use the DISM Tool
If running the System File Checker tool doesn’t work, try using the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool to fix problems with your Windows Update components. After you have successfully executed the above command, restart your computer to see if it resolves the issue.
4. Reset Windows Update Components
It appears that a corrupt or missing Windows Update component is responsible for this issue. If this happens, you may try resetting the Windows Update components. You will have to delete the “SoftwareDistribution” and “catroot2” folders to remove any temporary files causing the problem and force Windows to download fresh copies. Follow these steps to run this tool:
5. Troubleshoot in Clean Boot
If you’ve been struggling to fix a Windows Update error, there’s a good chance that performing a clean boot will do the trick. A clean boot is when you start Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This can help you troubleshoot issues by eliminating software conflicts. Once you have completed the above steps, check whether it resolves the issue. Image credit: Christina via Unsplash. All screenshots by Digvijay Kumar
