Alex Ruben
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x8007001C
If you’re facing the Windows Update Error 0x8007001C, you’re not alone. This error can prevent your system from downloading and installing important updates, leading to potential security vulnerabilities and performance issues. Fortunately, there are several straightforward steps you can take to resolve this problem. In this guide, we will walk you through a systematic approach to reset your Windows Update components, ensuring a smoother update process and restoring your system’s functionality.
Before starting, make sure you have administrative rights on your computer, as these steps require elevated privileges. It is also advisable to back up your important files and create a system restore point, just in case something goes wrong during the process.
Step 1: Stop Windows Update Services
The first step in fixing this error is to stop the services related to Windows Update. This ensures that no updates are being processed during the reset. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator and enter the following commands:
net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
net stop appidsvc
net stop cryptsvc
Stopping these services is crucial as it allows for a clean reset of the update components.
Step 2: Delete Temporary Update Files
Next, you need to remove the temporary files that Windows Update uses. These files can sometimes become corrupted and cause issues. Execute the following command in the same Command Prompt window:
Del "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\*.*"
This command deletes all files in the Downloader folder, clearing any potential conflicts.
Step 3: Remove Software Distribution Folder
The Software Distribution folder is where Windows stores update files. Deleting its contents can help resolve many update errors. Run these commands:
rmdir %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution /S /Q
rmdir %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 /S /Q
These commands will remove the Software Distribution folder and the catroot2 folder, allowing Windows to recreate them fresh.
Step 4: Reset Service Permissions
Sometimes, incorrect permissions can prevent Windows Update services from functioning properly. Reset the service permissions with the following commands:
sc.exe sdset bits D:(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;SY)(A;;CCDCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRSDRCWDWO;;;BA)(A;;CCLCSWLOCRRC;;;AU)(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;PU)
sc.exe sdset wuauserv D:(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;SY)(A;;CCDCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRSDRCWDWO;;;BA)(A;;CCLCSWLOCRRC;;;AU)(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;PU)
By resetting these permissions, you ensure that the services can operate without restrictions.
Step 5: Register Necessary DLL Files
After resetting permissions, register several DLL files that are crucial for Windows Update. Use the following commands:
cd /d %windir%\system32
regsvr32.exe /s atl.dll
regsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dll
regsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dll
regsvr32.exe /s shdocvw.dll
regsvr32.exe /s browseui.dll
regsvr32.exe /s jscript.dll
regsvr32.exe /s vbscript.dll
regsvr32.exe /s scrrun.dll
regsvr32.exe /s msxml.dll
regsvr32.exe /s msxml3.dll
regsvr32.exe /s msxml6.dll
regsvr32.exe /s actxprxy.dll
regsvr32.exe /s softpub.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wintrust.dll
regsvr32.exe /s dssenh.dll
regsvr32.exe /s rsaenh.dll
regsvr32.exe /s gpkcsp.dll
regsvr32.exe /s sccbase.dll
regsvr32.exe /s slbcsp.dll
regsvr32.exe /s cryptdlg.dll
regsvr32.exe /s oleaut32.dll
regsvr32.exe /s ole32.dll
regsvr32.exe /s shell32.dll
regsvr32.exe /s initpki.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wuapi.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wuaueng.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wuaueng1.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wucltui.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wups.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wups2.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wuweb.dll
regsvr32.exe /s qmgr.dll
regsvr32.exe /s qmgrprxy.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wucltux.dll
regsvr32.exe /s muweb.dll
regsvr32.exe /s wuwebv.dll
These commands will register the necessary components for Windows Update to work properly.
Step 6: Reset Winsock and Proxy Settings
Next, reset the Winsock and Proxy settings to eliminate any network issues that could affect updates. Enter the following commands:
netsh winsock reset
netsh winsock reset proxy
Resetting these settings can resolve connectivity issues that may be hindering Windows Update.
Step 7: Restart the Windows Update Services
Finally, restart the services you previously stopped. Execute the following commands to bring them back online:
net start bits
net start wuauserv
net start appidsvc
net start cryptsvc
This step is essential to ensure that Windows Update can now function normally with the updated components.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
It’s important to ensure that your system has adequate disk space before trying to update. Low disk space can trigger update errors. Additionally, consider running a Disk Cleanup to remove unnecessary files. If you continue to experience issues, check if your antivirus software is interfering with the update process, as some antivirus settings can block Windows Update.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the Windows Update Error 0x8007001C and successfully update your system. Regularly applying updates is crucial for maintaining the security and performance of your Windows operating system. If you encounter further issues, consider consulting the Microsoft support forums for additional assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Windows Update Error 0x8007001C?
This error typically indicates that there is a problem with the Windows Update service or its components, preventing updates from being applied.
Can I fix this error without technical knowledge?
Yes, the steps provided in this guide are designed to be straightforward. However, if you’re uncomfortable with command-line tools, it may be beneficial to seek help from a knowledgeable friend or technician.
What should I do if the error persists?
If the error persists after following these steps, you may want to consider performing a system restore to a previous point when updates were working correctly, or contacting Microsoft support for further assistance.
