1. Check Internet Connection:
Ensure your PC is connected to the internet. Test using:
- ping www.microsoft.com
or open a browser and visit Microsoft’s website.
2. Sync Date and Time Settings:
Go to Settings → Time & Language → Date & Time and enable Set time automatically. Also check the time zone.
3. Temporarily Disable Antivirus and Firewall:
Disable any third-party antivirus, firewall, or internet security software. Then re-run the update.
4. Reset Windows Update Components:
- Run these commands in Command Prompt as Administrator:
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
5. Clear Internet Explorer Settings:
Even if unused, Windows Update depends on IE settings. Go to:
- Internet Options → Advanced → Reset. Also clear SSL state under Content tab.
6. Disable Proxy (if used):
- Open Command Prompt and run:
netsh winhttp reset proxy
7. Use Windows Update Troubleshooter:
Go to Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot → Windows Update and follow prompts to detect and fix connection issues.
8. Flush DNS and Reset Network Stack:
- Run the following commands in sequence:
ipconfig /flushdns
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
Then restart your computer.
9. Try Safe Mode with Networking:
Boot into Safe Mode with Networking and attempt to run Windows Update. This minimizes interference from background services.
10. Contact Microsoft Support if Issue Persists:
If the error continues, especially in managed or enterprise environments, contact Microsoft for further diagnostic assistance.