Windows 10 error 80200056 usually appears when an update is interrupted or fails to install properly. This error can prevent your system from staying secure and up-to-date. Fortunately, fixing it is often straightforward with the right steps.
This guide will walk you through simple methods to resolve this update problem. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along without confusion.
By carefully following these instructions, you can get your Windows updates working again smoothly. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the solutions.
Understanding why updates fail helps prevent the issue in the future and keeps your PC running efficiently.
Quick Note: Before You Begin
Before trying more complex fixes, ensure these basic conditions are met. These quick checks can save time and avoid unnecessary troubleshooting.
- Stable Internet Connection: Windows updates require a reliable internet connection. Make sure you are connected to a stable Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.
- Enough Disk Space: Updates need free disk space to download and install. Check you have at least 10 GB free on your main drive.
- Power Supply: If you are using a laptop, keep it plugged in to avoid interruptions during the update process.
- Pause Other Downloads or Programs: Running heavy downloads or software may interfere with updates. Close unnecessary programs before starting.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart can clear temporary glitches causing error 80200056. Restarting refreshes system files and services related to updates.
- Click the Start button in the bottom-left corner.
- Select the Power icon.
- Choose Restart.
- After your PC restarts, try running Windows Update again by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and clicking Check for updates.
Step 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically find and fix common update problems. This tool is very helpful for errors like 80200056.
- Open Settings by pressing
Windows key + I. - Go to Update & Security.
- Click Troubleshoot on the left panel.
- Select Additional troubleshooters.
- Find and click Windows Update, then choose Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
- Restart your PC if prompted and check for updates again.
Step 3: Delete the Software Distribution Folder
The Software Distribution folder contains Windows Update files. Sometimes these files get corrupted, causing update errors. Deleting this folder forces Windows to create a new one, fixing many update issues.
Important: You will need to stop the Windows Update service before deleting the folder.
- Press
Windows key + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator. - Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net stop wuauserv
net stop bits - Open File Explorer and navigate to
C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution. - Select all files and folders inside (press
Ctrl + A), then right-click and choose Delete. - Return to the Command Prompt and restart the services:
net start wuauserv
net start bits - Close Command Prompt and try updating Windows again.
Step 4: Reset Windows Update Components Manually
If deleting the Software Distribution folder didn’t work, resetting all update components can help. This process refreshes related services, registry entries, and components.
Follow these steps carefully:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator (see Step 3).
- Type the following commands one at a time, 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
- Close Command Prompt and restart your computer.
- Check for Windows updates again.
Step 5: Check Date and Time Settings
Incorrect date and time settings can cause update errors because Windows Update servers rely on accurate system time.
- Right-click the clock on your taskbar and select Adjust date/time.
- Make sure Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically are turned on.
- If they are already on, try toggling them off and on again.
- Click Sync now to update the time immediately.
- Restart your PC and try updating again.
Alternative Method: Use the Media Creation Tool
If standard update methods fail, you can use the Media Creation Tool to upgrade Windows 10 manually. This often bypasses update errors by installing the latest version directly.
- Go to the official Microsoft Windows 10 download page.
- Download and run the Media Creation Tool.
- Choose Upgrade this PC now and follow prompts.
- This process keeps your files and apps but refreshes system files.
This method is more advanced but effective when other fixes fail.
FAQs
Why does error 80200056 happen during updates?
This error typically occurs when the update process is interrupted unexpectedly, such as by a restart, shutdown, or network problem.
Can I lose my files by resetting Windows Update components?
No, resetting update components only affects temporary update files and services. Your personal files and programs remain safe.
How long should I wait for Windows Update to complete?
Update times vary depending on your PC and internet speed. Some updates take a few minutes, others may take an hour or more.
Is it safe to delete the Software Distribution folder?
Yes, Windows will recreate this folder automatically. Deleting it clears corrupted update files that may block installation.
What if the Media Creation Tool also fails?
In rare cases, deeper system issues or hardware problems may cause update failures. Consider professional support or a clean Windows installation.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above steps and still face error 80200056, it might be time to seek additional help.
- Visit the Microsoft Windows Update Troubleshooter page for more tools.
- Use the Microsoft Community Forums to ask experts for help.
- Consider contacting Microsoft Support directly if your Windows copy is licensed.
In extreme cases, backing up your files and performing a clean Windows installation may be necessary to resolve persistent update errors.
Conclusion
Error 80200056 can interrupt important Windows updates, but you can fix it by following simple troubleshooting steps. Starting with basic restarts and the troubleshooter often solves the problem quickly.
Deleting temporary update files and resetting update components address more complex issues. Checking system time and using the Media Creation Tool offer additional solutions.
Always ensure your PC has a stable connection and sufficient disk space before updating. If all else fails, official Microsoft resources and support are available to assist you.
By carefully applying these methods, you can keep your Windows 10 system secure and up-to-date without frustration.