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How to Fix Windows 8.1 Update Errors 80070020, 80073712, and 0x800f081f with Effective Solutions

Windows 8.1 updates are important for keeping your system secure and running smoothly. However, sometimes errors like 80070020, 80073712, and 0x800f081f can stop updates from installing properly. These errors can be frustrating but are often fixable with a few simple steps.

In this guide, you will find clear and basic instructions to resolve these update errors. Each step is designed to be easy to follow, even if you are not very tech-savvy.

By following this article, you will learn how to troubleshoot these common Windows 8.1 update errors effectively. Let’s get started and get your system updated again without hassle.

Remember, patience and following each step carefully will help you fix these issues successfully.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

  • Make sure your PC is connected to the internet. Updates require a stable connection.
  • Close all running programs to avoid interference during the update process.
  • Check that you have enough free disk space on your system drive (usually C:).
  • Consider temporarily disabling any third-party antivirus or firewall software, as these can sometimes block updates.

How to Fix Windows Update Error 80070020

Error 80070020 usually means another program is interfering with the update process. This can be caused by antivirus software or even background processes.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Restarting clears temporary issues and closes interfering programs. After rebooting, try running Windows Update again.

Step 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows key + W to open Search.
  2. Type “troubleshooting” and select Troubleshooting from the results.
  3. Click Fix problems with Windows Update.
  4. Follow the instructions on screen to detect and fix issues automatically.

This built-in tool can detect common problems that block updates and fix them.

Step 3: Temporarily Disable Antivirus Software

Your antivirus might be blocking update files. Open your antivirus program and look for options to disable it temporarily. Remember to enable it again after the update.

Step 4: Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with only essential services, preventing other programs from interfering.

  1. Press Windows key + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
  4. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  5. Disable all startup items one by one.
  6. Close Task Manager and click OK on the System Configuration window.
  7. Restart your PC and try updating again.

This ensures no third-party applications interfere with updates.

How to Fix Windows Update Error 80073712

Error 80073712 means some system files needed for the update are corrupted or missing.

Step 1: Run the System File Checker (SFC)

  1. Press Windows key + X and choose Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. It may take some time.
  4. If the tool finds any problems, it will attempt to fix them automatically.

SFC scans your system files and repairs corruption, which can help fix update errors.

Step 2: Use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) Tool

  1. Open Command Prompt (Admin) as above.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This command repairs the Windows image and fixes issues that SFC might not fix.

Step 3: Try Updating Again

After completing the DISM command, restart your computer and try running Windows Update again.

How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x800f081f

Error 0x800f081f usually happens when Windows cannot find the necessary files to complete the update. This often relates to .NET Framework issues.

Step 1: Enable .NET Framework 3.5

  1. Press Windows key + X and select Programs and Features.
  2. Click Turn Windows features on or off on the left.
  3. Find .NET Framework 3.5 (includes .NET 2.0 and 3.0) and check the box.
  4. Click OK and wait while Windows installs the feature.

Many updates require this framework to be enabled to succeed.

Step 2: Use Windows Update Standalone Installer (WUSA)

Sometimes manually installing the update helps:

  1. Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.
  2. Search for the update code (e.g., KB number) you want to install.
  3. Download the correct version for your system (x86 or x64).
  4. Run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3: Use DISM to Specify Source Files

If the update still fails, you can point DISM to a known good source, such as your Windows installation media:

  1. Insert your Windows 8.1 DVD or mount an ISO file.
  2. Open Command Prompt (Admin).
  3. Run this command, replacing D:sourcessxs with your source path:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:D:sourcessxs /LimitAccess

This tells Windows where to find the necessary files to fix the update.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why do Windows updates fail with these errors?

These errors usually occur because of file corruption, conflicts with other software, or missing system components.

Can I lose my data while fixing these errors?

Following these troubleshooting steps is safe and does not affect personal files. However, it’s always good practice to back up important data.

Do I need to disable antivirus software permanently?

No, only disable it temporarily while performing updates to prevent interference.

What if the Windows Update Troubleshooter doesn’t fix the problem?

Try the other methods in this guide, such as SFC and DISM scans, or performing a clean boot.

Can I use third-party tools to fix these errors?

It’s best to stick with official Microsoft tools and methods to ensure system stability and security.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix your update errors, consider these options:

  • Visit the Microsoft Support website for more detailed help.
  • Use the Windows Update Diagnostic Tool for advanced automated troubleshooting.
  • Perform a repair install of Windows 8.1, which reinstalls Windows without deleting your files.
  • Contact a professional technician if you feel uncomfortable performing advanced steps.

Conclusion

Windows Update errors like 80070020, 80073712, and 0x800f081f can be fixed by following simple, step-by-step solutions. Starting with basic checks and tools like the Windows Update Troubleshooter, SFC, and DISM commands often resolves most problems.

Remember to take your time, follow each step carefully, and ensure your system is properly prepared before updating. With patience and these methods, you can keep your Windows 8.1 system up to date and secure.

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