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How to Fix Error 0x80246017 on Windows 10: Step-by-Step Solutions

Encountering error 0x80246017 on Windows 10 can interrupt your updates and disrupt your system’s performance. This error usually appears when Windows Update fails to download or install updates correctly. Understanding how to fix this issue can save you time and prevent further problems.

In this guide, we will walk you through several easy-to-follow solutions. Each step is explained in detail, so even beginners can follow along without confusion. By the end, you should be able to resolve error 0x80246017 and keep your Windows system up to date.

Windows updates are essential for security and performance improvements. Fixing this error ensures your system remains protected and runs smoothly. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the solutions.

These methods have been tested and are commonly effective for most users facing this particular error. Follow each step carefully and check if the problem is resolved before moving on to the next.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before troubleshooting error 0x80246017, make sure to complete the following quick checks:

  • Internet Connection: Ensure your device is connected to the internet. A stable connection is necessary for Windows Update to work properly.
  • Disk Space: Confirm you have enough free disk space on your system drive (usually C:). Lack of space can cause update failures.
  • Restart Your PC: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix temporary glitches affecting updates.
  • Disable VPN or Proxy: If you use a VPN or proxy, temporarily disable it as this can interfere with update downloads.

Once you have these basics covered, you can proceed with the troubleshooting steps below.

Step 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in tool designed specifically to identify and fix common update problems. Running this troubleshooter can automatically resolve many issues without manual intervention.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Update & Security and then click on Troubleshoot from the left menu.
  3. Select Additional troubleshooters.
  4. Find Windows Update in the list and click Run the troubleshooter.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions and wait for the process to complete.
  6. Restart your PC and check if the error persists.

Why this step matters: The troubleshooter scans your system for common errors and tries to fix them automatically, saving you from manual fixes.

Step 2: Clear the Windows Update Cache

Sometimes, corrupted files in the Windows Update cache cause errors like 0x80246017. Clearing this cache forces Windows to download fresh update files.

  1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the Services window, find and right-click on Windows Update service, then select Stop.
  4. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:WindowsSoftwareDistributionDownload.
  5. Delete all files and folders inside the Download folder.
  6. Return to the Services window, right-click on Windows Update service again, and choose Start.
  7. Restart your computer and try updating again.

Why this step matters: Clearing the cache removes potentially damaged files that prevent updates from installing correctly.

Step 3: Reset Windows Update Components Manually

If clearing the cache does not work, resetting Windows Update components manually can help by restoring update settings to their default state.

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator:
    • Click the Start button, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following commands one by one and press 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
  1. Close the Command Prompt and restart your PC.
  2. Attempt to update Windows again.

Why this step matters: Renaming the SoftwareDistribution and catroot2 folders forces Windows to create new update folders, which can resolve corruption issues.

Step 4: Check and Repair System Files

Corrupted system files can cause update errors. Windows has built-in tools to scan and repair these files.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (same as in Step 3).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This process may take some time. Once complete, it will tell you if it found and fixed any problems.

  1. If problems persist, run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool by typing this command:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  1. After DISM completes, restart your PC and try updating again.

Why this step matters: System File Checker (SFC) and DISM repair corrupted Windows files that might block updates from installing.

Alternative Method: Use the Media Creation Tool

If none of the above steps work, you can manually update Windows using the Media Creation Tool. This tool downloads the latest Windows 10 version and installs updates safely.

  1. Visit the official Microsoft website and download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.
  2. Run the tool and select Upgrade this PC now.
  3. Follow the prompts to complete the update process.

This method bypasses some Windows Update system components, which can fix stubborn errors like 0x80246017.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes error 0x80246017 on Windows 10?

This error is usually caused by corrupted update files, problems with Windows Update services, insufficient disk space, or network issues interfering with update downloads.

Can I ignore this error and continue using Windows?

While you can continue using Windows, ignoring update errors means your system won’t receive important security patches and improvements, which can make your computer vulnerable.

Is it safe to delete the SoftwareDistribution folder?

Yes, deleting or renaming the SoftwareDistribution folder is safe. Windows will recreate it automatically when you check for updates.

How long do these troubleshooting steps usually take?

Most steps take about 10 to 20 minutes, depending on your PC’s speed and the number of updates to install.

Do I need technical skills to follow these steps?

All instructions are designed to be simple and beginner-friendly. Just follow each step carefully, and you should be able to fix the error without advanced knowledge.

When Nothing Works: Final Options

If the error 0x80246017 still persists after trying all the above steps, consider the following options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for personalized help.
  • Perform a System Restore: Restore your PC to an earlier point where updates were working correctly.
  • Reset or Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, you can reset Windows or perform a clean installation to fix deep system issues.

Be sure to back up your important files before attempting major system changes.

Conclusion

Error 0x80246017 on Windows 10 can be frustrating, but it is usually fixable with a few simple steps. Start with running the Windows Update troubleshooter and clearing the update cache. If needed, reset update components and repair system files to resolve deeper issues. Using the Media Creation Tool offers an alternative way to update your system when standard methods fail.

Remember to keep your system backed up and maintain a stable internet connection during updates. Following this guide will help you overcome the error and ensure your Windows 10 PC stays secure and up to date.

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