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How to Fix KB4515384 Errors on Windows 10: Step-by-Step Solutions

Windows 10 updates are essential for keeping your system secure and running smoothly. However, sometimes errors like KB4515384 can interrupt this process. These errors might cause frustrating installation failures or system slowdowns.

Fixing KB4515384 errors requires some basic troubleshooting steps that anyone can follow. This guide will walk you through simple solutions to resolve this update issue effectively.

By carefully following each step, you can avoid common pitfalls and get your Windows updates working again. Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into the fixes.

These instructions are designed to be clear and easy, so even if you are not very tech-savvy, you can still follow along without trouble.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Check your internet connection: A stable internet connection is crucial for downloading updates.
  • Ensure enough disk space: Make sure you have at least 10 GB of free space on your system drive (usually C:).
  • Restart your PC: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix temporary glitches.
  • Disable third-party antivirus temporarily: Some antivirus programs can block updates.

Step 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built-in tool designed to automatically detect and fix common update problems. Running it is the simplest way to start resolving KB4515384 errors.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Update & Security.
  3. Choose Troubleshoot from the left menu.
  4. Click on Additional troubleshooters.
  5. Select Windows Update and then click Run the troubleshooter.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any fixes suggested.

Running this tool helps identify issues related to corrupted update files or configuration problems, which are common causes of update errors.

Step 2: Clear the Windows Update Cache Manually

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

Here is how to clear the cache safely:

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the Services window, scroll down to find Windows Update.
  4. Right-click it and select Stop.
  5. Now open File Explorer and navigate to C:WindowsSoftwareDistributionDownload.
  6. Select all files and folders inside the Download folder and delete them.
  7. Go back to the Services window, right-click Windows Update again, and select Start.
  8. Restart your computer and try running the update again.

This process removes old update files that might be causing conflicts, allowing Windows to fetch clean files.

Step 3: Use the System File Checker (SFC) Tool

Windows system files can sometimes become corrupted, affecting updates. The System File Checker scans and repairs these files.

Follow these instructions:

  1. Type cmd in the Start menu search bar.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
  3. In the command window, type:
sfc /scannow

and press Enter.

The scan will take some time. If it finds problems, it will fix them automatically. After completion, restart your PC and check if the update installs correctly.

Step 4: Reset Windows Update Components

If the previous steps did not help, resetting Windows Update components can fix deeper issues. This involves restarting related services and renaming update folders.

Here’s a basic way to do it:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (see Step 3 for how).
  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

After running these commands, restart your computer and try the update again. This resets all Windows Update settings and clears potential corruption.

Alternative Method: Manually Download and Install KB4515384

If automatic updates continue to fail, you can manually download the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog.

  1. Visit Microsoft Update Catalog.
  2. Search for KB4515384.
  3. Download the correct version matching your Windows 10 system (32-bit or 64-bit).
  4. Once downloaded, double-click the file and follow the installation prompts.
  5. Restart your computer after installation.

This method bypasses Windows Update and can be useful if the built-in process is stuck or corrupted.

FAQs

Why does KB4515384 keep failing to install?

Common reasons include corrupted update files, insufficient disk space, conflicting software, or damaged system files.

Is it safe to delete files from the SoftwareDistribution folder?

Yes, deleting files inside the SoftwareDistributionDownload folder is safe. It only removes temporary update files, forcing Windows to download fresh copies.

Will resetting Windows Update components cause data loss?

No, resetting update components only affects update cache and services. Your personal files and apps remain untouched.

Can third-party antivirus cause update errors?

Yes, some antivirus programs interfere with update processes. Temporarily disabling them during updates can help.

How long should I wait for KB4515384 to install?

Installation times vary but usually take 10-30 minutes. If it takes much longer, it could indicate a problem.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all steps and KB4515384 errors persist, consider these last options:

  • Perform a System Restore: Roll back your system to a previous point before the error appeared.
  • Use the Media Creation Tool: This tool can upgrade Windows 10 and fix update problems. Download it from Microsoft’s official website.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: For personalized help, visit the Microsoft Support page.

These options can fix severe issues but should be used carefully, especially system restore, as it may undo recent changes.

Conclusion

KB4515384 errors on Windows 10 can be frustrating, but most issues are solvable with simple troubleshooting steps. Start with the built-in troubleshooter and clearing the update cache, then move to system scans and resetting update components if needed.

Manually installing the update or using advanced tools provides alternative ways to fix stubborn problems. Always ensure your PC has enough disk space and a stable internet connection before updating.

Following this guide step-by-step will help you resolve update errors and keep your Windows 10 system safe and up-to-date.

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