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How to Fix Windows 10 2004 0xc1900101 0x20017 Error with Effective Troubleshooting Steps

If you are trying to update your Windows 10 to version 2004 and encounter the error codes 0xc1900101 and 0x20017, you are not alone. This error usually indicates a problem with device drivers or system conflicts during the update process. Thankfully, there are straightforward ways to troubleshoot and fix this issue.

This article will guide you through simple and effective steps to resolve the 0xc1900101 0x20017 error. Each step is explained clearly to help even beginners follow easily.

By following these instructions, you can increase the chances of a smooth Windows 10 2004 update without frustration or data loss.

Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the detailed troubleshooting.

Quick Note: What You Should Check Before Troubleshooting

  • Ensure Sufficient Disk Space: Windows updates need free space to download and install. Check that you have at least 20 GB of free space on your system drive (usually C:).
  • Backup Important Files: Before making changes, it’s always safer to back up your important documents and files.
  • Stable Internet Connection: A reliable internet connection prevents update interruptions.
  • Disconnect External Devices: Unplug USB drives, printers, and other peripherals that are not necessary during the update.
  • Note Installed Antivirus Software: Sometimes third-party antivirus programs interfere with updates. You may need to disable or uninstall them temporarily.

Step 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in tool that can automatically detect and fix common update problems. Running this tool is a simple first step.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  3. Click on Additional troubleshooters.
  4. Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions and let the tool try to fix any found problems.

This step helps fix issues like corrupted update files or misconfigured settings that may cause the error.

Step 2: Check and Update Device Drivers

The error code 0xc1900101 often relates to driver problems. Outdated or incompatible drivers can block the update process.

To update your drivers:

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark—this indicates driver issues.
  3. Right-click the device and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. If no updates are found, visit the device manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers manually.

Keeping drivers up to date ensures compatibility with the new Windows version and prevents installation failures.

Step 3: Disable or Uninstall Third-Party Antivirus Temporarily

Antivirus software can sometimes interfere with Windows updates by blocking certain processes.

Try disabling your antivirus temporarily during the update:

  • Open your antivirus program.
  • Find the option to disable protection temporarily (often labeled as “Real-time protection” or similar).
  • Disable it just for the duration of the update.

If disabling doesn’t help, consider uninstalling the antivirus software completely and reinstalling it after the update finishes.

Step 4: Free Up Disk Space

Insufficient disk space can cause update errors. Here is how to clean up your disk:

  1. Open File Explorer and right-click the C: drive.
  2. Select Properties.
  3. Click Disk Cleanup.
  4. Check all boxes, especially Temporary files and System files.
  5. Click OK and then Delete Files to free space.

Having enough free space allows the update to download and install without interruption.

Step 5: Use the System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tools

Corrupted system files can cause update errors. Windows provides tools to scan and repair these files.

To run these tools:

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and choose Run as administrator.
  2. In the command window, type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This command scans and repairs corrupted Windows system files.

  1. Wait until the scan completes (this can take some time).
  2. Next, run the DISM tool by typing 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

These commands repair the Windows image, which can fix deeper issues preventing updates.

Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot

Sometimes, third-party apps and services conflict with the update process. Performing a clean boot helps isolate such problems by starting Windows with only essential services.

To do a clean boot:

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check the box for Hide all Microsoft services.
  4. Click Disable all.
  5. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  6. Disable all startup items listed there.
  7. Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
  8. Restart your computer and try the update again.

If the update succeeds, you can re-enable services and startup items one by one to find the cause of the conflict.

Step 7: Manually Install the Windows 10 2004 Update Using the Media Creation Tool

If the error persists, manually installing the update can bypass some issues with Windows Update.

Follow these steps:

  1. Go to the official Microsoft Windows 10 download page.
  2. Download the Media Creation Tool.
  3. Run the tool and select Upgrade this PC now.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade.

This method often works when the normal update process fails due to software conflicts or corrupted update components.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does the error code 0xc1900101 0x20017 mean?

This error typically indicates a driver-related problem or a system file conflict during the Windows 10 feature update installation.

Can outdated drivers cause this error?

Yes, incompatible or outdated drivers are one of the most common causes of this error. Updating drivers usually helps resolve the issue.

Is it safe to disable antivirus software during the update?

Temporarily disabling antivirus software is generally safe and can prevent interference with the update. Just remember to enable it again afterward.

Will performing a clean boot remove my files?

No, a clean boot only disables certain startup programs and services temporarily. Your personal files and data remain safe.

What if the manual installation using the Media Creation Tool also fails?

If manual installation fails, it may indicate deeper system issues. Proceed to the “When Nothing Works” section below.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still cannot fix the error, consider these options:

  • Perform a System Restore: Roll back your PC to a previous working state using System Restore.
  • Reset Windows 10: Use the Reset this PC feature to reinstall Windows while keeping or removing your files.
  • Seek Official Support: Visit the Microsoft Support website for additional help.
  • Check Hardware: Occasionally, faulty hardware like RAM or hard drives can cause update failures. Running hardware diagnostics may help.

Conclusion

Error codes 0xc1900101 0x20017 during the Windows 10 2004 update are often caused by driver issues, software conflicts, or corrupted system files. Starting with simple fixes like running the Windows Update troubleshooter and updating drivers usually solves the problem.

More advanced steps such as running system file checks, performing a clean boot, or using the Media Creation Tool will help if basic methods fail. Always remember to back up your data and ensure your system is prepared before attempting updates.

By following this guide carefully, you can resolve the error and enjoy the new features of Windows 10 2004 without hassle.

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