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How to Fix Error 0x80070005 0x90002 on Windows 10: Step-by-Step Solutions

If you are experiencing error codes 0x80070005 and 0x90002 on your Windows 10 system, it usually means there is a permissions or update issue. These errors can prevent you from installing updates or accessing certain features.

This guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to fix these errors. No advanced technical skills are required, and each step includes clear explanations.

By following this step-by-step approach, you can resolve the problem and keep your Windows 10 system running smoothly. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the solutions.

Understanding why these errors appear can help prevent them in the future. Keep this in mind as you follow along.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Ensure you are logged in as an Administrator: Many fixes require admin rights to change system settings.
  • Check your internet connection: A stable connection is necessary for Windows updates and downloading fixes.
  • Temporarily disable antivirus or firewall software: Sometimes security programs block updates or permissions.
  • Restart your computer: A simple reboot can solve temporary glitches related to these errors.

Step 1: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

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

  1. Click on the Start menu and select Settings.
  2. Choose Update & Security and then click on Troubleshoot from the left menu.
  3. Select Additional troubleshooters.
  4. Find and click on Windows Update and then click Run the troubleshooter.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions until the process completes.

This tool attempts to identify and repair update errors, including those related to permissions.

Step 2: Check and Fix Permissions Manually

Error 0x80070005 often indicates an ‘Access Denied’ issue, meaning Windows doesn’t have permission to access certain files or folders.

  1. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution.
  2. Right-click the SoftwareDistribution folder and select Properties.
  3. Go to the Security tab and click Edit.
  4. Select your user account and ensure that Full control is checked. If it is not, check it and click Apply.
  5. If your account is not listed, click Add, type your username, and give it full control permissions.

Granting full control ensures Windows Update has the necessary rights to download and install updates.

Step 3: Reset Windows Update Components

If permissions are correct but errors persist, you can reset Windows Update components. This process clears corrupted update files and resets services.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    3. 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 window and restart your computer.

This sequence stops update services, renames folders that store update data to force Windows to recreate them, and then restarts the services.

Step 4: Perform a System File Check (SFC) Scan

Corrupted system files can also cause these errors. The System File Checker scans and repairs damaged Windows files.

  1. Open Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin) again.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    3. sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the process to complete. It may take several minutes.
  4. If any issues are found, the tool will attempt to fix them automatically.

After this, restart your computer and check if the error is resolved.

Step 5: Use the DISM Tool for Advanced Repair

If the SFC scan did not fix the issue, the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can repair the Windows image.

  1. Open Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Enter this command and press Enter:
    3. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  3. Wait for the operation to finish. This can take some time.
  4. Once done, restart your computer.

The DISM tool fixes deeper system corruption that may cause update errors.

Alternative Method: Create a New User Account

Sometimes, user profile corruption causes permission errors. Creating a new user account with administrative rights can help.

  1. Open Settings and go to Accounts > Family & other users.
  2. Click Add someone else to this PC.
  3. Follow prompts to create a new local user account.
  4. After creation, change the account type to Administrator.
  5. Log out of your current account and log in with the new account.
  6. Try running Windows Update again.

If the update works, your original user profile may be corrupted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does error 0x80070005 mean?

This error means “Access Denied.” It usually indicates Windows does not have the necessary permissions to complete an action, often related to updates or file access.

Can antivirus software cause these errors?

Yes, some antivirus or firewall settings can block Windows updates or restrict permissions, causing these errors. Temporarily disabling them may help during troubleshooting.

Is it safe to rename the SoftwareDistribution folder?

Yes, renaming this folder forces Windows to recreate update files from scratch. It is a common troubleshooting step and safe to do.

Do I need to back up files before trying these fixes?

Most steps are safe and do not affect personal files. However, creating a backup is always a good practice before making system changes.

Will reinstalling Windows fix the problem?

Reinstalling Windows is a last resort. Usually, the steps above fix the problem without needing a full reinstall.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still encounter the errors, consider these final options:

  • Check Microsoft’s official support pages: Visit the Windows Support website for the latest guidance.
  • Use the Media Creation Tool: This allows you to repair or reinstall Windows 10 without losing data. Download it from the official Microsoft site.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: If the issue persists, getting professional help is recommended.

Conclusion

Error codes 0x80070005 and 0x90002 can be frustrating but are often fixable with simple steps. Start with running the Windows Update troubleshooter and checking permissions, then move on to resetting update components and running system scans.

Understanding why these errors occur helps you avoid them in the future. Remember to keep your system updated, maintain administrator access, and ensure your security software does not block updates.

By following this step-by-step guide, you should be able to resolve these errors and keep your Windows 10 system healthy and up-to-date.

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