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How to Fix Windows Update Error 80244010 on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Windows Update Error 80244010 can be frustrating when trying to keep your Windows 11 system up to date. This error typically occurs due to connection issues between your PC and Microsoft’s update servers.

Fixing this error ensures your computer stays secure and receives important system improvements. Fortunately, there are several straightforward steps you can take to resolve it.

This guide will walk you through the simplest solutions first, gradually moving to more advanced fixes if needed. Each step includes clear explanations to help you understand why it matters.

By following these instructions carefully, you can get your Windows Update working smoothly again.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

  • Make sure your internet connection is stable and working properly.
  • Check that your system date and time are set correctly. Incorrect settings can cause update errors.
  • Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus or firewall software, as these can block update downloads.
  • Ensure your Windows 11 is not running in a metered connection mode, which can limit downloads.

Step 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter is designed to automatically detect and fix common update problems. It’s the easiest first step to try.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Windows Update in the list and click Run.
  4. Wait for the troubleshooter to scan and apply fixes. Follow any on-screen instructions.

This tool resets update components, clears temporary files, and checks for connectivity issues, which often resolves error 80244010.

Step 2: Check and Reset Windows Update Services

Windows Update relies on several services running smoothly. Sometimes these services can stop or become unresponsive, causing errors.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the Services window, scroll down to find Windows Update.
  4. Right-click it and select Restart. If it’s stopped, select Start.
  5. Repeat the same for Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) and Cryptographic Services.

Restarting these services ensures the update process can communicate properly with the Microsoft servers.

Step 3: Clear the Windows Update Cache

Sometimes corrupted cache files can interfere with updates. Clearing them forces Windows to download fresh update files.

  1. Press Windows + R, type cmd, then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Stop Windows Update services by typing the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    3. net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
net stop cryptsvc
  3. Navigate to the SoftwareDistribution folder by typing:
    4. ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old

    This renames the folder, effectively clearing the update cache.

  4. Restart the services with these commands:
    5. net start wuauserv
net start bits
net start cryptsvc
  5. Close the Command Prompt and try running Windows Update again.

Clearing the cache can fix issues caused by corrupted files that block updates.

Step 4: Check Windows Update Settings and Proxy Configuration

Incorrect proxy settings or misconfigured update options can cause connection errors.

  1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy.
  2. Make sure Use a proxy server is turned off unless you intentionally use one.
  3. Return to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options.
  4. Ensure that Receive updates for other Microsoft products is enabled, which can help with update delivery.

Correct proxy settings help your PC communicate with Microsoft’s update servers without interference.

Step 5: Manually Reset Windows Update Components (Advanced)

If previous steps didn’t work, manually resetting update components can fix deeper issues.

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator again.
  2. Run these commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    3. 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
  3. Close the Command Prompt and restart your PC.
  4. Try checking for updates again.

This process refreshes core Windows Update folders and services, helping to fix stubborn errors.

Step 6: Use the Windows Update Assistant

If all else fails, the Windows Update Assistant can force your system to update to the latest version of Windows 11.

This tool bypasses some common update errors by performing a clean update process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes Windows Update Error 80244010?

This error usually happens due to network connection problems, corrupted update files, incorrect system settings, or interference from security software.

Is it safe to clear the SoftwareDistribution folder?

Yes, clearing or renaming this folder is safe. Windows will recreate it and download fresh update files, which can resolve corrupted cache problems.

Do I need administrator rights to fix this error?

Yes, many troubleshooting steps require administrator privileges to stop services and modify system folders.

Will disabling antivirus software affect my PC security?

Temporarily disabling third-party antivirus during troubleshooting is generally safe. Just remember to turn it back on after updates are fixed.

Can a metered internet connection cause update errors?

Yes, Windows may block updates on metered connections to save data. Make sure your connection is not set as metered when updating.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all steps and the error persists, you can consider the following options:

  • Use the System Restore feature to revert your PC to a previous state before the error started.
  • Contact Microsoft Support for personalized assistance through their official support page.
  • Perform a repair install of Windows 11 using the installation media, which keeps your files but refreshes system files.
  • Consider a clean installation of Windows 11 as a last resort, after backing up all important data.

Conclusion

Windows Update Error 80244010 is often caused by connectivity issues or corrupted update files but can be fixed with a series of simple troubleshooting steps. Starting with the Windows Update troubleshooter and moving through service restarts, cache clearing, and resetting update components covers most common problems.

Always ensure your internet connection and system settings are correct before trying more advanced fixes. If needed, the Windows Update Assistant and official Microsoft support provide reliable alternatives.

By following this guide carefully, you should be able to resolve the error and keep your Windows 11 PC up to date with the latest security patches and features.

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