How to fix
Windows update error 0x80073B01
on Windows

I keep getting a 0x80073B01 error when trying to update Windows. Can you help me?

To keep your Windows operating system well-functioning and secure, you should install Windows updates as soon as they become available. They offer important bug fixes, added features, and general system improvements. However, some people might encounter errors during this process, often marked with a code such as 0x80073B01.

Understanding the 0x80073B01 error

0x80073B01 error can show up at various times during the download or installation process of the update. Typically, Windows delivers a general "Updates failed" message that does not provide much information apart from the error code. There are thousands of error codes out there, so it is not surprising that users are confused about what to do when Windows updates do not install.

Causes for the 0x80073B01 error

While a particular code should specify the reason for the error, this is not usually the case. Windows systems are rather complex, often compiled from hardware components of different makers; software installed on the system can also affect various factors of the device.

As a result, the reasons for the 0x80073B01 error could be many - from corrupted system files, bugged Windows update caches, appropriate services not running, insufficient space, etc. Due to all these facts, there is no way that there's only one solution that would work for all - which brings us to the solutions.

Resolving the 0x80073B01 error

Just as there is no one reason that causes the 0x80073B01 error, the solutions to solve are also different, and more extensive troubleshooting is required in many cases. For example, some users might be able to resolve the issue automatically by simply running the troubleshooter, while others will have to reset Windows update components, tweak relevant service settings, or repair corrupted files.

If automatic update simply does not work, there are a few ways about it, as the failed update 

To address Windows update error 0x80073B01, several approaches can be taken. These include running system file checks to identify and repair corrupted files, ensuring that the system is free from malware, and checking the configuration and status of the Windows Update service. Additionally, clearing the Windows Update cache and resetting the update components can help resolve any underlying issues that might be causing the error. Detailed, step-by-step instructions for each of these solutions will be provided below the article to guide you through the process.

Using a reliable PC repair tool like [d1] can also help automatically resolve any underlying Windows issues that might be contributing to the 0x80073B01 error, ensuring a smoother and more efficient user experience.

Fix 1. Run Windows update troubleshooter

Using the Windows update troubleshooter can automatically detect and fix common issues that might be preventing updates from installing correctly.

• Type Troubleshoot in Windows search and press Enter.
• Select Additional troubleshooters/Other troubleshooters.
• Find Windows Update from the list.
• Click it and select Run the troubleshooter/Run.
• Restart your PC when the update process finishes.

Fix 2. Perform Disk Cleanup

Performing Disk Cleanup can free up space and remove temporary files that might be causing conflicts with Windows updates.

• Type Disk Cleanup in Windows search and hit Enter.
• If your Windows is installed on drive C, pick it from the list (it should be by default) and press OK.
• Click Clean up system files.
• Select your main disk again and click OK.
• Here, select the largest portions of the data used - these typically include Temporary Internet Files, Windows Update, Temporary Files, Recycle Bin, Delivery Optimization Files, and others.
• Click OK - the process should be finished shortly.

Fix 3. Check relevant services

Ensuring that essential Windows services are running can help in the smooth installation of updates.

• Type in Services in Windows search and press Enter.
• Locate Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS).
• If it is already running, right-click and select Restart.
• If the service is not running, double-click it, select Automatic under the Startup type from the drop-down menu.
• Click Start, Apply, and OK.
• Repeat the process with the Windows Update, Cryptographic, and Windows Installer services.

Fix 4. Run SFC and DISM

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and pick Run as administrator.
• User Account Control will ask whether you want to allow changes – click Yes.
• Copy and paste this command and hit Enter:
  sfc /scannow
• Wait for the scan to finish.
• As soon as it finishes, Windows will report whether integrity violations were found and if they could be fixed. Regardless of the outcome, use these commands next, pressing Enter after each:
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
• Close down the Command Prompt and restart your device.

Fix 5. Reset Windows update components

• Open Command Prompt as administrator.
• Stop the Windows Update-related services by running the following commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each one:
  net stop wuauserv
  net stop cryptSvc
  net stop bits
  net stop msiserver
• Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders by running the following commands:
  ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
  ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
  Note: If your Windows installation is not on the C drive, replace "C" with the appropriate drive letter.
• Restart the Windows Update-related services by running the following commands:
  net start wuauserv
  net start cryptSvc
  net start bits
  net start msiserver
• Reboot your device.

Fix 6. Install the update manually

As mentioned, if you can't install updates automatically, you can try the manual method instead.

• Type in Updates in Windows search and press Enter.
• Select View update history.
• Find the update that failed with the 0x80073B01 error and copy its KB number.
• Open your browser and go to Microsoft Update Catalog.
• Within the search bar, type in the KB number and click Search.
• Find the correct version of the update for your operating system (to check this, right-click on Start and pick System. Under Device specifications and check the System type) and click Download.
• Use on-screen guidelines to finish the installation process and restart your computer.

Fix 7. Use Media Creation Tool

Before proceeding, make sure you disconnect any unneeded peripherals and uninstall your third-party security software (if applicable) to avoid issues during the upgrade.

• Visit the official Microsoft website and download Windows 10 installation media (Windows 11 version).
• Double-click the installer and select Yes when UAC shows up.
• Agree to terms.
• Select Upgrade this PC now and click Next.
• Windows will start downloading the needed files.
• Agree to the terms once again and click Next.
• Before installing, make sure that you are happy with your choices (otherwise, you can click Change what to keep option).
• Finally, click Install to begin the upgrade process.