ByUpdates in the Windows operating system are necessary for users for security, performance, and new features. But sometimes while updating, an error code appears – 0x800703e6. This error interrupts the Windows Update process, and users get upset. In this article, we will explain in detail what Error 0x800703e6 is, what its causes are, and how you can fix it.
What is Error 0x800703e6?
Windows Update Error 0x800703e6 is a common error that occurs when the system is unable to load the required files or they become corrupt. This directly affects the Windows Update process, due to which users are unable to install new updates.
Major causes of Error 0x800703e6
There can be several possible reasons behind this error:
Corrupted system files
Influence of malware or virus
Interference of third-party antivirus
Driver incompatibility
Registry error
Problem with Windows Update services
How to fix Windows Update Error 0x800703e6
You can fix this error by following the steps given below in a sequential manner.
1. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
Microsoft’s Windows Update Troubleshooter is an inbuilt tool that identifies and fixes common problems.
To use it:
1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
2. Select the Windows Update option and click on Run the troubleshooter.
3. Follow the instructions and restart the system.
2. Run SFC (System File Checker) scan
The SFC command scans and repairs Windows system files.
Steps:
1. Open Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Type:
“`
sfc /scannow
“`
3. Let the scan complete and restart the system.
3. Use the DISM command
If the SFC scan doesn’t resolve the issue, use the DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tool.
Steps:
1. Open Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Run the following commands one by one:
“`
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
“`
3. Restart the system once the process is complete.
4. Temporarily Disable Antivirus
Sometimes, third-party antivirus software can block Windows Update.
Temporarily disable the antivirus.
Re-run Windows Update.
Don’t forget to re-enable the antivirus after the update is done.
5. Reset Windows Update Components
Manually resetting the update-related services may fix this error.
To run the commands:
1. Open Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Type the following commands in sequence:
“`
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
“`
3. Restart the system and try the update process again.
6. Download Manual Update
If automatic update is not happening, download and install the manual update file from Microsoft Update Catalog website.
Steps:
1. Go to [https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com](https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com).
2. Search for the error code or KB number.
3. Download the correct version as per your system.
4. Run the file and complete the update.
7. Update in Clean Boot
Some third-party programs interfere with the Windows Update process. In clean boot mode, only essential services are enabled.
How to:
1. Press Windows + R, type: `msconfig`
2. Go to the Services tab and tick “Hide all Microsoft services” and click on “Disable all”.
3. Go to the Startup tab and click on “Open Task Manager”.
4. Disable all startup items.
5. Restart the system and try Windows Update again.
8. Perform a System Restore
If all the above methods fail, resort to System Restore to take the system back to a previous working state.
Steps:
1. Go to Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore.
2. Select a restore point and follow the instructions.
Tips to avoid Error 0x800703e6 in the future
Keep regular system backups.
Use a reliable antivirus program.
Regularly install Windows and driver updates.
Install third-party software only after verifying it.
Conclusion
Windows Update Error 0x800703e6 is a common but annoying error. However, with the help of the above-mentioned solutions, you can easily resolve it. Follow each step carefully and seek professional support if needed. Once this issue is resolved, keeping Windows up-to-date should be your priority.
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Question 1: What is Windows Update Error 0x800703e6?
Answer: This is a Windows error code that appears when the update process fails to complete due to a corrupt system file or software conflict.
Question 2: What causes this error?
Answer: This error is mainly caused by the following reasons:
Corruption of system files
Interference of third-party antivirus
Malfunction of Windows Update services
Problem in the registry
Driver compatibility issue
Question 3: Can this problem be solved with Windows Update Troubleshooter?
Answer: Yes, Windows Update Troubleshooter is a useful tool that can scan and fix common update-related problems.
Question 4: Do I need to download any software to fix this error?
Answer: In most cases, you can fix it with tools built into Windows such as SFC, DISM, and Troubleshooter. External software is not required unless the problem is very complex.
Question 5: What if all solutions fail?
Answer: If none of the solutions work, you can use System Restore or contact Microsoft Support.
Question 6: Can this error be prevented in the future?
Answer: Yes, keep the system updated regularly, use a reliable antivirus, and be cautious of third-party software. Also, do not disable or modify Windows Update services.
