Fix Windows Update Stuck or Failing with Error 0x80070005 (Reset Update Components)
Windows Update stuck at 0%, pending download, or failing with 0x80070005 and 0x800f0922? Reset the update components and repair the component store step by step.
Common Symptoms and Quick Fixes
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Update stuck at 0% or Pending download | Corrupted SoftwareDistribution cache | Reset Windows Update components |
| Error 0x80070005 (Access denied) | Permissions or security software blocking | Run as admin, check third-party antivirus, repair image |
| Error 0x800f0922 or 0x80073712 | Corrupted component store | Run DISM RestoreHealth and SFC |
Method 1: Reset Windows Update Components
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run these commands in order. They stop the update services, rename the cache folders so Windows rebuilds them, and start the services again.
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 msiserverPro Tip for AdministratorsDo not delete the .old folders until an update has installed successfully. They are your rollback.
Method 2: Repair the Component Store and System Files
If the reset did not help, repair the Windows image. DISM can look stuck at 20% or 62% for several minutes; let it finish.
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow1
Restart after both commands finishA reboot completes pending repairs. Then open Settings > Windows Update and click Check for updates.
Method 3: Free Space and Install the Update Manually
Cumulative updates need roughly 10 GB free on the system drive.
2
Free disk spaceRun cleanmgr, select the system drive, and click Clean up system files.
3
Find the KB numberOpen Settings > Windows Update > Update history and note the failing KB.
4
Install from the Microsoft Update CatalogSearch the KB number at catalog.update.microsoft.com, download the .msu for your architecture and run it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is renaming SoftwareDistribution safe?
Yes. Windows recreates the folder automatically. Your update history may appear empty afterwards, which is normal.
Q: How long does DISM take?
Usually 10 to 30 minutes. The progress bar often pauses; do not close the window.