How to Fix Error 0x80070424 During Windows Update

Error 0x80070424 during a Windows update usually occurs when the system cannot find the necessary components to proceed with the update. This can be related to issues with Windows Update services or system files. Here are several steps that may help resolve this error:

1. Restart services related to Windows Update

First, try restarting the key services responsible for updates:

  • Press Win + R and type services.msc.
  • Locate the following services:
    • Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS);
    • Windows Update Service;
    • Cryptographic Service.
  • Right-click on each service and choose Restart. If the service is not running, select Start.

2. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Microsoft provides a built-in troubleshooter for Windows Update:

  • Go to Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot → Additional troubleshooters.
  • Select Windows Update and run the troubleshooter.

3. Check system files using SFC and DISM

Sometimes, corrupted system files can cause update issues. Use the SFC and DISM tools to check and restore system files:

  1. Press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    sfc /scannow
    Wait for the process to complete.
  3. Next, enter the following command to repair the update components:
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

4. Reset Windows Update components

Resetting the update components can also help resolve the problem:

  1. Open the Command Prompt with administrator rights.
  2. Enter the following commands one by one to stop the related services:
    net stop wuauserv
    net stop cryptSvc
    net stop bits
    net stop msiserver
  3. After stopping the services, enter the following commands:
    ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
    ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
  4. Then restart the services:
    net start wuauserv
    net start cryptSvc
    net start bits
    net start msiserver

5. Manually update through the Microsoft website

If the error persists, you can try manually updating the system:

  1. Visit the official Microsoft website and download the latest updates.
  2. Run the utility and follow the installation instructions.

6. Check for viruses and malware

Some viruses may block updates. Run a full system scan using an antivirus program or tools like Microsoft Defender or Malwarebytes.

If none of these methods help, you may need to consider restoring the system or contacting Microsoft support for further assistance.