How To Fix Error 0x80246007 When Downloading Windows Updates In Windows 11 [Solution]

I recently faced a frustrating issue while trying to update my Windows 11 system. The update process stalled with an error message: 0x80246007. At first, I thought it was a minor glitch, but as I continued to encounter the same problem, I realized it needed my immediate attention. The error seemed to appear whenever I attempted to download and install updates, preventing my system from receiving essential improvements and security patches.

After some research and troubleshooting, I discovered that this error is related to problems with the Windows Update components or issues with the Windows Update delivery optimization. My first step was to identify and understand the root cause of this problem. I found that the error 0x80246007 could be caused by corrupted files or issues with the Windows Update service itself. The error might also indicate problems with the delivery optimization service or network-related issues.

Determined to resolve the issue, I began with a series of steps that I hoped would restore my system’s ability to download and install updates correctly. Here is a detailed account of the solution that worked for me:

1. Restarting the Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve underlying issues. I started by rebooting my computer to see if the problem would be resolved with a fresh start. Although this seemed like a basic step, it’s often effective in clearing minor glitches.

2. Checking for Network Issues: I verified my internet connection to ensure it was stable and functioning correctly. An unstable or slow internet connection can interfere with the update process. I tried loading a few websites and streaming a video to confirm that my internet was working as expected.

3. Running Windows Update Troubleshooter: Windows has a built-in troubleshooter for update problems, and I decided to give it a try. I went to Settings, then System, and selected Troubleshoot. From there, I chose Other troubleshooters and ran the Windows Update troubleshooter. The troubleshooter detected and attempted to fix various issues related to the update process.

4. Clearing the Windows Update Cache: I learned that sometimes corrupted cache files can cause update issues. To clear the cache, I stopped the Windows Update service. I opened the Command Prompt as an administrator and ran the commands to stop the Windows Update service and related services:

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

   Next, I deleted the cache files by navigating to the C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution folder and deleting its contents. After clearing the cache, I restarted the services with the following commands:

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

5. Resetting Windows Update Components: If clearing the cache didn’t work, I reset the Windows Update components manually. This involves renaming specific folders that store update files and configuration data. I ran the following commands in the Command Prompt:

   cmd
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   ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
   ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
   

   After renaming these folders, I restarted my computer and tried to update Windows again.

6. Checking for System File Corruption: System file corruption can also cause update errors. To address this, I ran the System File Checker tool (sfc) and the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM). In the Command Prompt, I entered:

   cmd
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   sfc /scannow
   

   After the scan completed, I ran:

   cmd
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   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
   

   These commands scanned and repaired any corrupted system files and restored the system image.

7. Manually Installing Updates: If all else failed, I resorted to manually installing the updates. I visited the Microsoft Update Catalog website and searched for the specific update by its KB number. I downloaded the appropriate update package for my system and installed it manually.

8. Checking for Third-Party Software Conflicts: Occasionally, third-party security software or other applications might interfere with the update process. I temporarily disabled my antivirus software and any other security applications to see if they were causing the issue. After disabling them, I attempted to update Windows again.

9. Performing a System Restore: As a last resort, I used System Restore to revert my system to a previous state before the problem started. This involved accessing System Restore through the Control Panel and selecting a restore point from before the issue began.

By carefully following these steps, I was able to resolve the error 0x80246007 and get my Windows 11 system back to normal. The update process resumed, and my system successfully downloaded and installed the necessary updates. This experience was a valuable lesson in troubleshooting and provided me with a better understanding of managing Windows Update issues.