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How to Fix Windows 10 Error 0x80070714: Step-by-Step Solutions That Work

If you are encountering the Windows 10 error code 0x80070714, it can be frustrating. This error usually appears during Windows Update or when managing files and system settings.

Fortunately, there are straightforward solutions to fix this problem. In this guide, we will walk you through simple, step-by-step methods to resolve the error effectively.

Each step is explained in detail to ensure even beginners can follow along easily. By the end, your system should work smoothly without this error.

Let’s get started and fix error 0x80070714 with confidence.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

Before diving into troubleshooting, there are a few quick checks you should perform. These help avoid unnecessary steps and identify obvious causes.

  • Restart your computer: Sometimes, a simple reboot clears temporary glitches causing the error.
  • Check your internet connection: A stable connection is necessary if the error occurs during Windows Update.
  • Ensure enough disk space: Lack of free space can interrupt updates or file operations.
  • Disable antivirus temporarily: Occasionally, security software blocks system processes and triggers errors.

Step 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built-in tool designed to scan and fix common update problems automatically. Running this tool is often the quickest way to fix error 0x80070714.

  1. Click the Start menu and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Update & Security.
  3. Click on Troubleshoot from the left pane.
  4. Choose Additional troubleshooters.
  5. Select Windows Update and then click Run the troubleshooter.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions. The tool will detect and fix issues automatically.

Why this helps: The troubleshooter can identify corrupted update files, misconfigured settings, or other problems causing the error.

Step 2: Clear the Windows Update Cache

Corrupted or stuck update files in the cache can trigger error 0x80070714. Clearing the cache forces Windows to download fresh files.

  1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the Services window, find Windows Update.
  4. Right-click it and select Stop.
  5. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:WindowsSoftwareDistributionDownload.
  6. Delete all files inside the Download folder.
  7. Return to the Services window, right-click Windows Update, and select Start.
  8. Restart your PC and try updating again.

Why this matters: Removing old or corrupted update files can resolve conflicts and allow updates to proceed smoothly.

Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

System File Checker is a Windows utility that scans and repairs corrupted system files. Corrupted files can cause errors like 0x80070714.

  1. Click the Start menu, type cmd.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
  3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
    sfc /scannow
  4. Wait patiently while the scan completes. It may take several minutes.
  5. If corrupt files are found, the tool will repair them automatically.
  6. Restart your computer and check if the error persists.

Why this is important: Fixing damaged system files helps maintain Windows stability and prevents various errors.

Step 4: Use the DISM Tool to Repair Windows Image

If the SFC scan didn’t solve the problem, the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can fix deeper system image issues.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (same as Step 3).
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  3. These commands check and repair any corruptions within the Windows system image.
  4. Once completed, restart your PC and attempt the operation that caused error 0x80070714 again.

Why use DISM? It repairs underlying issues that SFC cannot fix, ensuring your Windows image is healthy.

Step 5: Reset Windows Update Components Manually

If the previous steps fail, resetting Windows Update components manually can fix misconfigurations causing the error.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. 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:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
    ren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 Catroot2.old

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

  3. Close the Command Prompt and restart your computer.
  4. Try running Windows Update or the task that caused the error again.

Why this helps: Renaming these folders forces Windows to recreate fresh update data, eliminating corrupted files or settings.

Alternative Option: Perform a System Restore

If error 0x80070714 started after recent changes or updates, you can use System Restore to revert your PC to a previous working state.

  1. Press Windows + S, type System Restore, and select Create a restore point.
  2. Click the System Restore button.
  3. Follow the wizard to choose a restore point dated before the error appeared.
  4. Confirm and let Windows revert your system.
  5. After restart, check if the error is gone.

Why use System Restore? It undoes recent changes that might have caused system instability or errors.

FAQs About Windows 10 Error 0x80070714

What causes error 0x80070714?

This error usually results from corrupted update files, damaged system files, or conflicts with Windows Update components.

Can antivirus software cause this error?

Yes, some antivirus programs may block update processes. Temporarily disabling antivirus can help diagnose this.

Is it safe to delete files in the SoftwareDistribution folder?

Yes, this folder stores temporary update files. Deleting them forces Windows to download fresh copies without harming your system.

Will resetting Windows Update components delete my personal files?

No, this process only affects update-related files and settings. Your personal data remains safe.

What if I still see the error after trying all steps?

Advanced system corruption or hardware issues might be causing the error. At this point, consider contacting Microsoft Support.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix error 0x80070714, you can try these final options:

  • Run a Clean Boot: This starts Windows with minimal programs to identify if third-party software causes the error.
  • Perform an In-Place Upgrade: This reinstalls Windows without deleting your files and can fix deep system issues.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for specialized help.
  • Backup and Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, backing up your data and performing a fresh Windows installation may solve persistent problems.

Conclusion

Error 0x80070714 on Windows 10 can interrupt your workflow but is usually fixable with simple steps. Start with the built-in troubleshooter and gradually move to more advanced fixes like clearing caches, running scans, or resetting update components.

Understanding why each step matters helps you troubleshoot confidently and avoid repeated issues. Remember to keep your system updated and maintain enough disk space for smooth operations.

If you encounter difficulties, don’t hesitate to seek professional support or use system restore points for safety. With patience and the right approach, this error will be resolved, keeping your Windows 10 system running smoothly.

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