How to fix
Windows update error 0x800f0987
on Windows

I've been trying to install the latest Windows updates for several weeks now. It seems like it gets installed fully but then, instead of saying it's successful, it shows that there's an error 0x800f0987. Is there a solution for this?

Windows updates are crucial in keeping your system updated with the latest features and patches in a secure and stable manner. Sometimes, it is quite possible that the update process goes through hiccups and some sort of errors obstruct the proper installation. Out of these update errors, there is one called Windows update error 0x800f0987, which may hinder this process from running smoothly and leave your system bereft of critical updates.

Error 0x800f0987 normally occurs in Windows during an anomaly with the installation process, whether of cumulative updates or security patches. If some users face this problem, then they will find that either the update gets stuck, is failing continuously, or shows an error message with no details provided. That's very frustrating because it can leave your system potentially vulnerable or miss out on crucial improvements.

There are several reasons why Windows update error 0x800f0987 appears. Among them, the outstanding cause is corrupted or incomplete components of Windows Update, which may interfere with the normal update process.

Damaged system files or previous incomplete updates can also contribute to this error. Additionally, conflicts with third-party antivirus software or firewalls might prevent the update from downloading or installing correctly. Problems with your internet connection or specific settings within Windows Update can also trigger this error.

To fix the Windows update error 0x800f0987, different troubleshooting steps can be applied, starting with basic checks and moving to more detailed fixes, such as resetting update components or repairing system files.

The goal is to ensure that your Windows Update components and system files are functioning correctly, allowing the update to proceed without issues. Below, manual instructions will guide you through these steps, from the easiest solutions to more advanced fixes.

For an automated approach, using the [d1] repair tool can help identify and fix underlying Windows issues, streamlining the update process and improving system stability.

Fix 1. Run Windows Update troubleshooter

The built-in Windows Update troubleshooter can identify and fix common issues that prevent updates from installing properly.

• Type Troubleshoot in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Select Additional troubleshooters/Other troubleshooters.
• Find Windows Update from the list and select Run the troubleshooter/Run.
• Wait till the scan is finished - you will be provided with potential causes so you can proceed with fixes.
• If no suggestions were provided, proceed with the solutions below.

Fix 2. Perform Disk Cleanup

Cleaning of temporary and system files may free up space, including corrupted files that interfere with Windows Update.

• 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. Run SFC and DISM scans

Perform both SFC and DISM, which will find any corrupted system files that are preventing the update.

• Type cmd in the Windows search box.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
• When UAC asks you whether you want to make changes, agree by pressing Yes.
• Next, copy and paste the following commands, pressing Enter each time:
  sfc /scannow
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  (Note: if you get an error executing the last command, add /Source:C:\RepairSource\Windows /LimitAccess to it and try again.)
  
• Restart your computer.

Fix 4. Reset Windows Update components

Resetting Windows Update components can fix deeper issues related to update services.

• 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.
  regsvr32.exe /s atl.dll
  regsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dll
  regsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dll
  netsh winsock reset
  netsh winsock reset proxy
• 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 computer.

Fix 5. Install the update manually

If automatic updates fail, manually installing the update can sometimes bypass issues and complete the process.

• Type in Updates in Windows search and press Enter.
• Select View update history.
• Find the update that failed with the 0x800f0987 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 6. Try Clean Boot

A Clean Boot helps identify if background applications or services are causing conflicts with Windows Update.

• Type msconfig in Windows Search and press Enter.
• Click on the Services tab and check the Hide all Microsoft Services box.
• Click Disable all to disable non-Microsoft services, then click the Startup tab.
• Open the Task Manager, disable all startup items, and close the Task Manager.
• Go to the Boot tab and mark the Safe boot option.
• Click OK on the System Configuration window and restart your computer.
• Try installing the update again.

Fix 7. Use Media Creation Tool

Media Creation Tool reinstalls Windows while keeping your files and apps intact, which can resolve persistent update errors.

• 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.