Windows Update Error 0x80080005: How to Fix It

Windows Update error 0x80080005 usually points to damaged update files, corrupted system files, permission problems, or an incorrect Windows configuration. Microsoft currently recommends starting with the Windows Update troubleshooter, then clearing the update cache and repairing Windows components if the error continues.

Windows 10 note: free support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025. If you still use Windows 10, normal free security updates are no longer available unless your device is covered by an eligible Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. Microsoft recommends moving to Windows 11 when the PC supports it. See Microsoft's Windows 10 ESU information for current eligibility and coverage.

What does error 0x80080005 mean?

Microsoft groups 0x80080005 with Windows Update failures associated with corrupted files or incorrect system configuration. The code does not identify one single broken component, so the best approach is to work from the least disruptive fixes to the more advanced repair steps.

Before changing anything, restart the PC, confirm the internet connection is stable, make sure the date and time are correct, disconnect nonessential USB storage or docks, and check that the Windows drive has reasonable free space. Microsoft includes these checks in its Windows Update troubleshooting guidance.

1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

Microsoft now directs Windows users to the automated Windows Update troubleshooter in the Get Help app. Open Get Help, search for Windows Update troubleshooter, and follow the prompts.

On Windows 10 systems where the legacy Settings troubleshooter is still available, go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Windows Update, then choose Run the troubleshooter. Restart the PC afterward and try Windows Update again. Microsoft maintains the current instructions on its Windows Update Troubleshooter page.

2. Clear the Windows Update cache

A damaged download in C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution can prevent later update attempts from completing. Microsoft recommends stopping the Windows Update service, clearing the cache, and starting the service again.

1. Press Win + R, enter services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Right-click Windows Update and choose Stop.
3. Open C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution in File Explorer and delete the contents of that folder. Do not delete the SoftwareDistribution folder itself.
4. Return to Services, right-click Windows Update, and choose Start.
5. Restart the PC and check for updates again.

3. Reset the Windows Update folders

If simply clearing the cache does not work, use Microsoft's more advanced reset procedure. Open Command Prompt as administrator and run these commands one at a time:

net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
ren %systemroot%\softwaredistribution softwaredistribution.bak
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 catroot2.bak
net start bits
net start wuauserv

Restart Windows after the commands finish. Windows will create fresh update folders automatically. Do not add unrelated registry changes or disable networking services just to fix this error; those older workarounds can create new problems without addressing the damaged update components.

4. Repair Windows with DISM and SFC

If 0x80080005 remains, repair the Windows component store and protected system files. Microsoft recommends running DISM first, followed by System File Checker.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Run DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth and wait for it to complete.
3. Then run sfc /scannow.
4. Do not close Command Prompt until SFC reaches 100%.
5. Restart the PC and try Windows Update again.

These commands and their expected behavior are documented in Microsoft's DISM and System File Checker instructions.

5. If 0x80080005 still will not go away

At this point, avoid random registry cleaners, disabling IPv6, turning off core Windows networking services, or permanently disabling the firewall. Instead, back up important files and use a supported recovery path. If the PC recently changed, System Restore may undo the responsible driver or software change. For persistent corruption, Microsoft also documents an in-place reinstall using Windows installation media, which can preserve personal files, settings, and apps when the correct option is selected.

If you must reset Windows 10, Reset this PC > Keep my files reinstalls Windows while preserving personal files, but it removes installed apps and resets settings. Back up first, and keep the BitLocker recovery key available if device encryption is enabled. Microsoft's Reset your PC guide explains the available choices.

Which fix should you try first?

For most PCs, the practical order is: run the Windows Update troubleshooter, clear the SoftwareDistribution cache, reset the Windows Update folders, then run DISM and SFC. If the error survives all four, use Microsoft's recovery options rather than making undocumented registry or service changes. On Windows 10 in 2026, also confirm that the PC is actually entitled to receive the update you are trying to install through ESU or another supported servicing channel.