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How to Fix Error 80244018 on Windows 10: Effective Solutions That Work

If you are seeing error 80244018 on your Windows 10 device, it means there is a problem with Windows Update. This error can stop your system from downloading important updates. It is quite common but can be fixed with some simple steps.

Windows updates are essential for keeping your computer secure and running smoothly. When an error like 80244018 appears, it usually points to connectivity issues or problems with update settings. Luckily, you don’t need to be an expert to try the solutions below.

This article will guide you through effective and easy-to-follow methods to fix error 80244018. Each step is explained clearly to help you understand what to do and why.

By following these instructions, you can get your Windows Update working again without much hassle.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Checks Before You Begin

  • Stable Internet Connection: Make sure your PC is connected to the internet and the connection is stable. Interrupted or slow internet can cause update errors.
  • Check Date and Time Settings: Incorrect system date and time can interfere with Windows Update. Verify your clock is accurate.
  • Disable VPN or Proxy: If you use a VPN or proxy server, temporarily disable it as these can block update servers.
  • Run Windows Update as Administrator: Sometimes, running update with admin rights helps avoid permission issues.

Step 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built-in tool designed to detect and fix common update problems automatically. It is the easiest first step to try.

  1. Click on the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Update & Security and then click on Troubleshoot from the left menu.
  3. Click on Additional troubleshooters.
  4. Select Windows Update and then click Run the troubleshooter.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions. The tool will check for problems and try to fix them automatically.

Running this troubleshooter often resolves the issue by resetting corrupted update components.

Step 2: Reset Windows Update Components Manually

Sometimes, the update files or services get corrupted. Resetting these can help clear error 80244018. This requires using Command Prompt with administrator privileges.

  1. Type cmd in the Windows search bar.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the command window, 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

These commands stop update services, rename folders that store update files, and restart the services. Renaming the folders forces Windows to create fresh update data.

Step 3: Check Your Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Firewall or antivirus software can sometimes block Windows Update servers, causing error 80244018. Temporarily disabling these can help identify if they are the source of the problem.

  • Open your antivirus program and disable real-time protection temporarily.
  • For Windows Firewall, go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
  • Click on Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off from the left sidebar.
  • Turn off the firewall for both private and public networks temporarily.

After disabling, try running Windows Update again. If the update works, add exceptions in your firewall or antivirus settings for Windows Update.

Step 4: Use the System File Checker Tool

Corrupted system files can cause update errors. The System File Checker (SFC) scans and repairs these files automatically.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (same as Step 2).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

Wait patiently as the scan runs. It may take some time. After it finishes, restart your computer and check if the update error persists.

Step 5: Modify Windows Update Registry Settings

This is a more advanced option, recommended only if previous steps fail. Incorrect registry edits can cause system problems, so proceed carefully.

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  2. Navigate to the following key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftWindowsWindowsUpdate

Look for any unusual values or entries that might restrict updates. You can also delete the WindowsUpdate key if you suspect it is causing the problem. Before making changes, create a backup of the registry by selecting File > Export.

After editing, restart your computer and try the update again.

Alternative Method: Use Media Creation Tool to Update Windows

If none of the above steps work, you can manually update Windows using the Media Creation Tool. This tool downloads the latest version of Windows and installs it without losing your files.

  • Go to the official Microsoft website and download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.
  • Run the tool and select Upgrade this PC now.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update process.

This method bypasses Windows Update entirely and can fix errors related to update downloads.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does error 80244018 mean?

This error indicates Windows Update is unable to communicate properly with Microsoft’s update servers. It is often caused by network issues, corrupted update files, or incorrect system settings.

Is it safe to disable antivirus or firewall during updates?

Temporarily disabling them is generally safe if you reconnect to a trusted network and re-enable protection immediately after updating.

Will resetting Windows Update components delete my personal files?

No, resetting update components only affects system files related to updates and does not touch your personal data.

Can I fix this error without technical knowledge?

Yes, many solutions like the Windows Update Troubleshooter and SFC scan are user-friendly and do not require advanced skills.

How often should I check for Windows updates?

It is recommended to check for updates regularly or keep automatic updates enabled to ensure your system stays secure and up to date.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above methods and still face error 80244018, it may be time to seek advanced help.

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support page for assistance.
  • Perform a System Restore: Restore your PC to a previous point when updates worked fine.
  • Consider a Clean Installation: As a last resort, back up your files and reinstall Windows 10 from scratch.

These options can resolve deeper system issues that prevent updates from working.

Conclusion

Error 80244018 on Windows 10 can be frustrating, but it is usually fixable with some simple steps. Start with running the Windows Update Troubleshooter and checking your internet connection. If needed, reset Windows Update components and scan for corrupted files using SFC.

Always ensure your firewall and antivirus are not blocking updates. For persistent issues, editing the registry or using the Media Creation Tool can help. Remember to proceed carefully and back up important data before making advanced changes.

Keeping your Windows system updated is crucial for security and performance. Following these solutions will help you overcome error 80244018 and maintain a healthy PC.

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