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How to Fix Update Error Code 0x80072efd in Windows 10: Complete Working Solutions

Windows Update errors can be frustrating, especially when they prevent your system from receiving important fixes and improvements. One common error code that users encounter is 0x80072efd. This error usually indicates a connection problem between your computer and the Windows Update servers.

Fortunately, there are several straightforward solutions you can try to resolve this issue. In this article, we’ll walk you through easy-to-follow steps to fix the update error 0x80072efd in Windows 10.

By following these methods, you can get your updates back on track and keep your system secure and running smoothly. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting process.

These solutions don’t require advanced technical skills and are suitable for most users.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

  • Check your internet connection: Make sure your PC is connected to the internet. A stable connection is essential for Windows Update to work.
  • Disable VPN or Proxy: If you use a VPN or proxy server, temporarily disable it. These can sometimes interfere with Windows Update.
  • Check date and time settings: Incorrect date or time can cause update errors. Ensure your system clock is accurate.
  • Restart your PC: Sometimes a simple reboot can resolve temporary glitches.

Step 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built-in tool designed to find and fix common update problems automatically. Here’s how to run it:

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings (the gear icon).
  2. Go to Update & Security.
  3. Click on Troubleshoot in the left pane.
  4. Under Get up and running, select Windows Update and then click Run the troubleshooter.
  5. Wait for the troubleshooter to scan and fix any issues it detects.
  6. Restart your computer and try updating again.

Why this helps: The troubleshooter can automatically detect misconfigured settings or corrupt files that might be blocking updates.

Step 2: Check Your Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Sometimes, your firewall or antivirus software blocks Windows Update from connecting to Microsoft’s servers. To fix this:

  1. Temporarily disable your antivirus program. Look for the antivirus icon in the system tray, right-click it, and select Disable or Pause protection.
  2. Disable the Windows Firewall temporarily:
1. Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter.
2. Click System and Security, then Windows Defender Firewall.
3. Select Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off from the left menu.
4. Choose Turn off Windows Defender Firewall for both private and public networks.
5. Click OK.

Try running Windows Update again. If the update works, add Windows Update to your firewall’s whitelist or adjust settings to allow it. Remember to turn your firewall and antivirus back on afterward to keep your system protected.

Step 3: Reset Windows Update Components

If the previous steps didn’t solve the problem, resetting the Windows Update components can help. This process clears corrupted files and resets settings related to updates.

Follow these steps carefully:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator:
    • Type cmd in the search box.
    • Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  2. Stop the Windows Update services by typing these commands one by one, pressing Enter after each: 
    net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
  3. Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders. These folders store update files and sometimes get corrupted: 
    ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 Catroot2.old
  4. Restart the services you stopped earlier by typing these commands and pressing Enter after each: 
    net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
  5. Close the Command Prompt and restart your PC.
  6. Try running Windows Update again.

Why this step matters: Windows Update stores temporary files that can become corrupted. Resetting these components refreshes the update process from scratch.

Step 4: Check Your Network Settings

Your network configuration may cause connection issues with Windows Update servers. Resetting your network settings can help fix this.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (see Step 3).
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each: 
    netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns
  3. Restart your computer.
  4. Try updating Windows again.

Explanation: These commands reset network protocols, release and renew your IP address, and clear the DNS cache. This often fixes network-related update errors.

Alternative Method: Use the Windows Update Assistant

If none of the above methods resolve the issue, you can try manually updating Windows 10 using the Windows Update Assistant.

  • Visit the official Windows 10 download page.
  • Click on Update now to download the Windows Update Assistant tool.
  • Run the downloaded tool and follow the on-screen instructions to update your system.

This method bypasses the regular update system and can help install updates even if Windows Update is blocked.

FAQs

What causes update error 0x80072efd?

This error usually happens due to network connection issues, firewall or antivirus blocks, corrupted Windows Update files, or incorrect system settings.

Is it safe to disable firewall and antivirus during troubleshooting?

Yes, but only temporarily. Disable them while checking if they cause the issue, then enable them again to keep your PC protected.

Will resetting Windows Update components delete my files?

No, this process only resets update-related files and services. Your personal files and applications remain untouched.

Can I use third-party tools to fix this error?

While some tools claim to fix update errors, it’s best to rely on Microsoft’s built-in tools and official methods to avoid potential risks.

What if I can’t connect to the internet at all?

Ensure your physical connections are secure, try restarting your modem/router, and check other devices for connectivity. If the problem persists, contact your internet service provider.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still encounter error 0x80072efd, you may consider:

  • Performing a System Restore to revert your system to a point before the error appeared.
  • Running the System File Checker tool by typing sfc /scannow in an elevated Command Prompt to repair corrupted system files.
  • Contacting Microsoft Support for further assistance: Official Windows Update support page.
  • As a last resort, consider performing a clean installation of Windows 10, after backing up your important data.

Conclusion

Update error 0x80072efd in Windows 10 is commonly caused by network or system issues that interrupt communication with Microsoft’s servers. Starting with simple checks like your internet connection and running the Windows Update Troubleshooter often fixes the problem.

If needed, resetting Windows Update components and network settings can resolve deeper issues. Always remember to keep your firewall and antivirus settings in mind during troubleshooting.

Using the Windows Update Assistant or more advanced recovery options can help if standard fixes fail. By following these steps methodically, you can effectively troubleshoot and fix this update error, ensuring your Windows 10 stays up to date and secure.

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