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How to Fix Error 0x80246017 When Downloading Windows 10 Preview Build: Complete Troubleshooting Steps

Downloading the Windows 10 Preview Build can sometimes be interrupted by errors. One common issue users face is error code 0x80246017. This error usually prevents the update from installing properly.

Understanding how to fix this error is important to ensure you get the latest features and improvements from the Windows Insider Program. Fortunately, there are several straightforward solutions you can try.

This guide will walk you through detailed and easy-to-follow steps to resolve error 0x80246017 when downloading the Windows 10 Preview Build.

Each step is explained clearly to help even beginners troubleshoot and fix the problem effectively.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Make sure your internet connection is stable. A poor connection can cause download errors.
  • Check that you have enough free disk space on your system drive (usually C:) for the update.
  • Ensure your device is plugged into power if you are using a laptop or tablet to avoid interruptions.
  • Verify that your Windows 10 version is eligible for the preview build you want to download.

Step 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built-in tool designed to automatically find and fix common update problems. Running this tool is a simple first step.

  1. Open Settings by clicking the Start menu and selecting the gear icon.
  2. Go to Update & Security.
  3. Click on Troubleshoot from the left pane.
  4. Select Additional troubleshooters.
  5. Find and click on Windows Update, then click Run the troubleshooter.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool checks for common issues such as corrupted update files or misconfigured settings and tries to fix them automatically.

Step 2: Clear the 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 Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter to open the Services window.
  3. Scroll down and find Windows Update service.
  4. Right-click on it and select Stop.
  5. Now, open File Explorer and navigate to C:WindowsSoftwareDistributionDownload.
  6. Delete all files and folders inside the Download folder.
  7. Go back to the Services window, right-click Windows Update, and select Start.
  8. Try downloading the Preview Build again.

Clearing the cache removes any corrupted or incomplete update files that may be causing the error.

Step 3: Reset Windows Update Components Manually

If clearing the cache doesn't help, resetting Windows Update components can fix deeper issues. This involves stopping update services, deleting temporary files, and restarting services.

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator:
    • Type cmd in the Start menu search bar.
    • Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
  2. 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 the update services, rename the folders where updates are stored (acting as a reset), and restart the services to refresh the update process.

Step 4: Check Your System Date and Time Settings

Incorrect date or time settings can interfere with Windows Update servers and cause errors.

  1. Right-click on the clock in the taskbar and select Adjust date/time.
  2. Make sure Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically are turned on.
  3. If not, toggle them on and click Sync now to update your clock.
  4. Restart your computer and try the update again.

Correct system time ensures your PC can communicate securely with Microsoft’s update servers.

Step 5: Disable Third-Party Antivirus Temporarily

Sometimes, antivirus software blocks update downloads or installations. Temporarily disabling it can help isolate the issue.

  • Locate your antivirus icon in the system tray (near the clock).
  • Right-click the icon and look for an option to disable or pause protection temporarily.
  • Choose a short period (e.g., 15 minutes) to disable.
  • Attempt the Windows 10 Preview Build download again.
  • Remember to re-enable your antivirus after the update attempt.

If the update works with the antivirus off, consider adding Windows Update to your antivirus’s exceptions list.

Alternative Method: Use the Windows Update Assistant

If the error persists, try using the Windows Update Assistant tool. This Microsoft tool helps manually download and install the latest Windows 10 Preview Build without relying on the automatic update process.

  • Visit the official Windows 10 download page.
  • Click Update now to download the Update Assistant.
  • Run the tool and follow the instructions to upgrade your system.

This method bypasses some common update errors by using a direct installer.

FAQs

What does error 0x80246017 mean?

This error usually indicates a problem with the Windows Update service, such as corrupted cache files or interrupted downloads.

Will resetting Windows Update components delete my files?

No. Resetting update components only affects temporary update files, not your personal data.

Can I fix this error without using command prompt?

Yes. Running the Windows Update Troubleshooter and clearing the update cache manually can sometimes fix the issue without commands.

Is it safe to disable antivirus during updates?

Yes, but only temporarily. Always re-enable your antivirus after updating to keep your system protected.

Why is my Windows 10 Preview Build download stuck?

Issues like unstable internet, insufficient disk space, or corrupted update files can cause downloads to freeze or fail.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still face error 0x80246017, consider the following final options:

  • Run a System File Checker scan by opening Command Prompt as administrator and typing sfc /scannow. This checks and repairs corrupted system files.
  • Perform a clean boot to rule out software conflicts:
    • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
    • Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services and then click Disable all.
    • Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager. Disable all startup items.
    • Restart your PC and try updating again.
  • Visit the official Microsoft Support page for more help.
  • Consider posting your issue on the Microsoft Answers forum where experts can provide personalized assistance.

Conclusion

Error 0x80246017 can be frustrating, but by following these simple and detailed steps, you can usually fix it quickly. Always start with easy fixes like running the troubleshooter and clearing the update cache.

If those don’t work, resetting update components and checking your system settings often solve the problem. Remember to keep your system updated and maintain a stable internet connection for smooth downloads.

Using alternative methods like the Windows Update Assistant or performing advanced troubleshooting may be necessary in rare cases. With patience and careful troubleshooting, you can successfully install the Windows 10 Preview Build and enjoy new features.

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