Windows updates are essential for keeping your system secure and running smoothly. However, sometimes errors can occur, preventing updates from installing properly. One common issue is Windows Update Error 0x80070643, which can be frustrating but is usually fixable.
In this guide, we’ll explain what causes this error and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.
What Causes Windows Update Error 0x80070643?
This error typically occurs when Windows fails to install an update due to:
- Corrupted system files
- Conflicting software (especially antivirus programs)
- Incomplete or interrupted updates
- Damaged Windows Update components
- Insufficient disk space
Now, let’s explore the best ways to fix this issue.
1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix update-related problems.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Select Additional troubleshooters.
- Click Windows Update and then Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your PC.
This tool often resolves minor issues causing Error 0x80070643.
2. Restart Windows Update Services
Sometimes, background services related to Windows Update may stop working correctly. Restarting them can help.
- Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
Find the following services:
- Windows Update
- Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
- Cryptographic Services
- Right-click each service and select Restart.
- If any service is not running, right-click and choose Start.
- Close the Services window and try updating again.
3. Clear the Windows Update Cache
Corrupted temporary update files can trigger this error. Clearing the update cache forces Windows to download fresh files.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search for cmd, right-click, and select Run as administrator).
Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
- Restart your PC and check for updates again.
4. Repair Corrupted System Files
Damaged system files can interfere with updates. Use System File Checker (SFC) and DISM to repair them.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Run the following command:
sfc/scannow
Wait for the scan to complete.
Next, run these DISM commands:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Restart your PC and try updating again.
5. Temporarily Disable Antivirus Software
Third-party antivirus programs can sometimes block Windows updates.
- Right-click your antivirus icon in the system tray and choose Disable or Turn off.
- If unsure, check the antivirus settings or visit the vendor’s website for guidance.
- Try installing the update again.
- Remember to re-enable your antivirus afterward.
6. Manually Install the Update
If automatic updates fail, you can manually download and install the problematic update.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Note the KB number of the failed update (e.g., KB5032189).
- Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog (https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com).
- Search for the KB number and download the correct version for your system (x64 or x86).
- Run the downloaded file and follow the installation steps.
7. Free Up Disk Space
If your system drive (usually C:) is full, Windows may fail to install updates.
- Press Windows + E and check free space on C:.
If space is low:
- Delete unnecessary files.
- Run Disk Cleanup (search for it in the Start menu).
- Uninstall unused programs (Settings > Apps > Apps & features).
8. Perform a Clean Boot
Conflicting startup programs can cause update errors. A clean boot helps identify the culprit.
- Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
- Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Restart your PC and try updating again.
- If the update works, re-enable services/startup items one by one to find the conflict.
9. Reset Windows Update Components
If nothing else works, resetting Windows Update components may help.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Run these commands one by one:
net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
net stop appidsvc
net stop cryptsvc
Del “%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader*.*”
rmdir %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution /S /Q
rmdir %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 /S /Q
regsvr32.exe /s atl.dll
regsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dll
regsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dll
regsvr32.exe /s shdocvw.dll
regsvr32.exe /s browseui.dll
regsvr32.exe /s jscript.dll
regsvr32.exe /s vbscript.dll
regsvr32.exe /s scrrun.dll
regsvr32.exe /s msxml.dll
regsvr32.exe /s msxml3.dll
regsvr32.exe /s msxml6.dll
regsvr32.exe /s actxprxy.dll
regsvr32.exe /s softpub.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wintrust.dll
regsvr32.exe /s dssenh.dll
regsvr32.exe /s rsaenh.dll
regsvr32.exe /s gpkcsp.dll
regsvr32.exe /s sccbase.dll
regsvr32.exe /s slbcsp.dll
regsvr32.exe /s cryptdlg.dll
regsvr32.exe /s oleaut32.dll
regsvr32.exe /s ole32.dll
regsvr32.exe /s shell32.dll
regsvr32.exe /s initpki.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wuapi.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wuaueng.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wuaueng1.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wucltui.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wups.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wups2.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wuweb.dll
regsvr32.exe /s qmgr.dll
regsvr32.exe /s qmgrprxy.dll
net start bits
net start wuauserv
net start appidsvc
net start cryptsvc
- Restart your PC and check for updates.
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Final Thoughts
Windows Update Error 0x80070643 can be frustrating, but it’s usually fixable with the right steps. Start with the Windows Update Troubleshooter, then try clearing the update cache, repairing system files, or manually installing updates.
If the issue persists, consider disabling antivirus software, freeing up disk space, or performing a clean boot. In rare cases, a Windows repair install may be necessary.
By following these solutions, you should be able to resolve the error and keep your system up to date. If you still face issues, Microsoft Support can provide further assistance.
Did this guide help you fix Error 0x80070643? Let us know in the comments!
