ByWhat is Error Code 3: 0x80040154 in Google Chrome?
When Error Code 3: 0x80040154 appears while updating or installing Google Chrome, it directly indicates a problem with the Windows system’s registration or COM components. This error is most often related to Chrome Update Failed, Chrome Installation Error, or the Google Update Service. In this situation, the browser neither updates correctly nor launches properly in many cases.
Based on our experience, this problem is common in both Windows 10 and Windows 11 and particularly occurs when existing Chrome files or registry entries in the system are corrupted.
Main Causes of Error Code 3: 0x80040154
1. Faulty or Corrupted Google Chrome Installation
If Chrome was not installed correctly initially, or if a third-party tool has modified its files, this error can occur.
2. Problems in the Windows Registry
If Chrome-related Registry Keys are deleted or corrupted, the Google Update service stops working.
3. Google Update Service Disabled
Sometimes the Google Update (gupdate/gupdatem) service is disabled, causing the update process to fail.
4. Antivirus or Firewall Interference
Some security software blocks Chrome’s installation files.
5. Outdated Windows Components
If Windows is not fully updated, necessary system DLLs or COM components may not be registered.
Methods to Fix Google Chrome Error Code 3: 0x80040154
Method 1: Completely Uninstall and Reinstall Google Chrome
This is the most effective method. Steps:
1. Open Control Panel
2. Go to Programs > Programs and Features
3. Uninstall Google Chrome
4. Restart your system
5. Manually delete the following folders:
“`
C:\Program Files\Google
C:\Program Files (x86)\Google
C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Google
“`
6. Download the latest offline installer of Chrome from the official website
7. Install it by running as an administrator
This method eliminates Chrome Error Code 3 in most cases.
Method 2: Enable Google Update Service
Steps:
1. Press `Windows + R`
2. Type `services.msc`
3. Scroll down and find:
Google Update Service (gupdate)
Google Update Service (gupdatem)
4. Double-click on both
5. Set the Startup Type to Automatic
6. If the Service is Stopped, click Start
7. Restart your system
Method 3: Re-register Chrome DLL Files from Command Prompt
This method is very useful for advanced users.
Steps:
1. Type cmd in the Start Menu
2. Select Run as Administrator
3. Run the following commands one by one:
“`
regsvr32 ole32.dll
regsvr32 oleaut32.dll
“`
4. After the commands are successful, restart your system
This resolves issues related to the 0x80040154 Class Not Registered Error.
Method 4: Fix Windows Registry (Safe Method)
It is essential to take a backup before making changes to the Registry.
Steps:
1. Press `Windows + R`
2. Type `regedit`
3. Navigate to the following path:
“`
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Google
“`
4. If the Google folder exists and the keys related to Chrome appear corrupted, delete them
5. Close the Registry Editor
6. Restart your system and reinstall Chrome
Method 5: Complete Windows Update
An outdated Windows version can also cause Error Code 3. Steps:
1. Open Settings
2. Go to Windows Update
3. Click on Check for updates
4. Install all pending updates
5. Restart your system
Method 6: Temporarily Disable Antivirus and Firewall
Sometimes, the antivirus software mistakenly identifies the Chrome setup as a threat.
Steps:
1. Temporarily disable your antivirus
2. Turn off Windows Defender Firewall
3. Install/Update Chrome
4. Re-enable your antivirus after the process is complete
Method 7: Install Chrome by creating a new Windows User Profile
This method works if your existing user profile is corrupted.
Steps:
1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users
2. Click on Add account
3. Create a new local account
4. Log in with the new account
5. Install Chrome
Important Tips to Avoid Error Code 3: 0x80040154
Always use the official Chrome installer
Avoid excessive use of registry cleaner tools on your system
Keep Windows and drivers updated
Avoid unknown software or cracked programs
Whitelist Chrome in your antivirus
Conclusion
Google Chrome Error Code 3: 0x80040154 is a common but frustrating problem that can be completely resolved by following the solutions in the correct order. We have outlined all the practical, safe, and effective methods above, which will allow you to use Chrome without any further issues. Proper installation, an updated system, and a clean registry are key to preventing this problem.
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FAQ – Google Chrome Error Code 3: 0x80040154
1. Why does Error Code 3: 0x80040154 appear in Google Chrome?
This error usually occurs due to Windows Registry issues, the Google Update Service being disabled, or corrupted Chrome installation files.
2. Is Error Code 3: 0x80040154 more common in Windows 11?
Yes, especially if Chrome was pre-installed after upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11, and older files remain on the system.
3. Will uninstalling Chrome delete my data?
If you have synced Chrome with your Google Account, your bookmarks, passwords, and history are safe and will be restored when you log in again.
4. Can antivirus software cause this error?
Yes, some antivirus or firewall programs block the Google Chrome Installer or Update Service, resulting in Error Code 3.
5. What is the Google Update Service and how is it related to this error?
The Google Update Service (gupdate/gupdatem) is responsible for automatically updating Chrome. If this service is disabled, Chrome updates fail, and this error is displayed.
6. Is it safe to edit the Registry?
Yes, but only if you create a Registry backup first. Incorrect changes can cause other system problems.
7. Can an offline Chrome installer fix this problem?
Absolutely. The offline installer does not depend on the internet and successfully fixes Error Code 3: 0x80040154 in most cases.
8. Does this error affect other browsers besides Chrome?
No, this problem is specifically related to Google Chrome and Google Update Components. Other browsers are not affected.
9. What should I do if all methods fail?
In such a situation, creating a new Windows User Account and installing Chrome there proves to be the most effective solution.
10. Can updating Windows automatically fix this error?
In many cases, yes. The latest Windows updates properly register necessary system files and COM components, which can resolve this error.
