How to fix
Windows update error 0x8024AFFF
on Windows

Hi, I keep getting the error 0x8024AFFF when I attempt to install Windows updates. I have no clue what it means or how to fix it, so I thought maybe you could help me.

Windows updates are essential for maintaining the smooth operation and security of your computer. They are usually installed automatically without requiring any input from the user. Most of the time, this process works seamlessly, and updates are installed without any hiccups.

However, in some cases, users may encounter errors during the update process. One such error is the Windows Update Error 0x8024AFFF (WU_E_AU_UNEXPECTED), which can prevent updates from being successfully installed.

When this error occurs, users are shown a typical "Updates failed" message, which does not provide any more content apart from the error code, which can be difficult to troubleshoot as a regular computer user without knowing the causes.

One of the primary reasons for the Windows Update Error 0x8024AFFF is an issue with the Windows Update service itself. This could be due to the service being disabled, a corrupt update database, or even a temporary glitch in the service. In any of these cases, the error prevents the update from being downloaded or installed on the user's computer.

Another potential cause of the 0x8024AFFF error is hardware-related issues, such as a faulty hard drive or insufficient disk space. If the computer's hardware is unable to support the update, the process will fail, and the user will be presented with an error message. In some instances, a hardware upgrade or replacement may be necessary to resolve the issue.

Third-party software, especially antivirus or security programs, can also cause the Windows Update Error 0x8024AFFF. These programs can interfere with the update process, either by blocking the update from being downloaded or by preventing it from being installed. It's essential to consider the potential impact of third-party software when troubleshooting this error, as it might be necessary to temporarily disable or uninstall the problematic program.

The Windows PC repair tool [d1] is an effective solution for repairing common Windows issues, including update errors. So, if you would want to try the automatic approach, we recommend trying it using this software.

Fix 1. Clean your disk

• Type Disk Cleanup in Windows search and press 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.
• Here, mark the areas you want to be deleted, such as Setup log files, Recycle bin, Temporary files, etc.
• Click OK - the removal process of various leftover files will begin.
• Once done, try launching games again.

Fix 2. Use the troubleshooter

Troubleshooter is another great way to solve the error.

• Type troubleshoot in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Click Additional troubleshooters/Other troubleshooters.
• Find Windows update.
• Click on it, and select Run the troubleshooter/Run.
• Wait for the scan to be completed and apply the suggested fixes.

Fix 3. Install the update manually

• Type in Updates in Windows search and press Enter.
• Select View update history.
• Find the update that failed with the 0x8024AFFF 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 clicks 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 system.

Fix 4. Check for corrupted files

• Type in cmd in Windows search
• Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator
• User Account Control will ask you whether you allow to make changes to the system - click Yes
• In the Command Prompt window, paste the following command and hit Enter:
  sfc /scannow
• Once the scan is complete, use the following commands and press Enter after each:
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
• Restart your PC.

Fix 5. Reset Windows update components

• Open Command Prompt as administrator, as previously explained.
• Copy and paste each of these commands, pressing Enter each time:
  net stop bits
  net stop wuauserv
  net stop appidsvc
  net stop cryptsvc
  Del “%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\*.*”
  rmdir %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution /S /Q
  rmdir %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 /S /Q
  regsvr32.exe /s atl.dll
  regsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dll
  regsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dll
  netsh winsock reset
  netsh winsock reset proxy
  net start bits
  net start wuauserv
  net start appidsvc
  net start cryptsvc 
• Restart your device.

Fix 6. Use Media Creation Tool

• 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.

Fix 7. Disable third-party antivirus

Third-party anti-malware programs may interfere with the Windows update process as they often monitor system changes for potential security threats. During an update, Windows modifies system files and settings, which could be mistakenly flagged as suspicious by the anti-malware software. Consequently, the anti-malware program might block or disrupt the update process, causing errors or incomplete updates.

To address this, you can temporarily either disable or uninstall your third-party antivirus. Keep in mind that any other software that interferes with internet connections (for example, VPN or firewall), can also be the cause of this issue.