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How to Fix Windows 11 Update Error 0x800f0845 with Easy Troubleshooting Steps

Windows 11 updates are important to keep your system secure and running smoothly. Sometimes, though, you might encounter an error during the update process.

Error code 0x800f0845 is one such problem that can interrupt your update installation. This article will guide you through simple troubleshooting steps to fix this error.

Each step is explained in basic terms, so you can follow along without confusion. Let’s get started and get your Windows 11 updated successfully.

Remember, patience and following the steps carefully will help resolve the issue faster.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Check your internet connection: A stable internet connection is essential for downloading updates.
  • Ensure enough disk space: Updates need free space to install properly. Try to have at least 10 GB of free space.
  • Restart your PC: Sometimes a simple restart can clear minor glitches that cause update errors.
  • Disable third-party antivirus temporarily: Some security programs can block updates. Remember to turn them back on after troubleshooting.

Step 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows 11 has a built-in troubleshooter designed to detect and fix common update problems automatically.

  1. Click on the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Windows Update in the list and click Run next to it.
  4. Wait for the troubleshooter to scan and apply fixes.
  5. Once done, restart your PC and try updating again.

Why this step is important: The troubleshooter can automatically resolve many common update errors without needing manual intervention.

Step 2: Clear Windows Update Cache

Sometimes, corrupted files in the Windows Update cache cause errors. Clearing this cache forces Windows to download fresh update files.

  1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the Services window, scroll down and right-click on Windows Update, then select Stop.
  4. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:WindowsSoftwareDistributionDownload.
  5. Select all files in this folder and delete them.
  6. Go back to the Services window, right-click Windows Update, and click Start.
  7. Restart your PC and try updating again.

Why this step is important: Clearing the cache removes corrupted files that might be blocking the update process.

Step 3: Run the System File Checker (SFC) Scan

Corrupted system files can cause update errors. The System File Checker tool scans and repairs these files.

  1. Click the Start button, type cmd.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the black window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait patiently; this scan can take some time.
  5. If any corrupted files are found, the tool will repair them automatically.
  6. Once finished, restart your PC and check for updates again.

Why this step is important: Fixing system file corruption helps restore the update process to normal.

Step 4: Use the DISM Tool to Repair Windows Image

If the SFC scan doesn’t fix the problem, the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can repair the Windows image, which is crucial for updates.

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator (see previous step).
  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

This process can take several minutes to complete. After it finishes, restart your PC and try updating again.

Why this step is important: DISM repairs the system image to fix deeper problems causing update errors.

Step 5: Manually Download and Install the Update

If the problem persists, you can manually download the update from Microsoft’s Update Catalog and install it yourself.

  1. Note down the update KB number from the Windows Update screen.
  2. Visit Microsoft Update Catalog.
  3. Type the KB number in the search box and press Enter.
  4. Download the correct update version for your system (64-bit or ARM).
  5. Once downloaded, double-click the file and follow on-screen instructions to install.
  6. Restart your PC after installation.

Why this step is important: This bypasses the automatic update system, allowing you to install the update directly.

Alternative Method: Reset Windows Update Components

If the error continues, resetting all Windows Update components can help. This process stops update services, deletes temporary files, and restarts the services.

Follow these basic commands in Command Prompt (Admin):

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

After running these commands, restart your PC and try updating again.

FAQs

What causes Windows Update error 0x800f0845?

This error usually occurs due to corrupted update files, system file issues, or problems with Windows Update services.

Is it safe to delete files in the SoftwareDistribution folder?

Yes, deleting files in the SoftwareDistributionDownload folder is safe and often necessary to clear corrupted update files. Windows will recreate these files automatically.

Will running the troubleshooter fix all update errors?

Not always, but it can fix many common problems. For complex issues, additional steps like SFC or DISM scans may be needed.

Can third-party antivirus cause update errors?

Yes, some security software may block updates. Temporarily disabling antivirus can help when troubleshooting.

Do I need to be an administrator to perform these fixes?

Yes, most troubleshooting steps require administrator privileges to run commands and change system settings.

When Nothing Works

If after trying all these steps the error still persists, you have a few final options:

  • Use Windows Update Assistant: Download the Windows Update Assistant from Microsoft’s official site to force an update.
  • Perform a Repair Install: This reinstalls Windows without deleting your files. It can fix deeper system issues.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support page for personalized help.

Conclusion

Update error 0x800f0845 in Windows 11 can be frustrating but is often fixable with simple steps. Starting with the Windows Update troubleshooter and clearing the update cache usually solves the problem.

System scans with SFC and DISM tools address deeper issues, while manual update installation or resetting update components offer alternative solutions.

By following this guide carefully, you should be able to resolve the error and keep your Windows 11 system up-to-date and secure.

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