How to fix
Windows update error 0xc80003f3
on Windows

Hello. I have been trying to install the available Windows updates but I receive an error code 0xc80003f3 every time after the process fails. How can I fix this?

Windows is one of the most widely used operating systems throughout the world. Its user-friendly interface, customization abilities, and built-in troubleshooters are praised. As with any other software, it is important to keep it updated. However, sometimes people run into issues when trying to install available updates.

Recently, users reported receiving an error 0xc80003f3 after the update installation process failed. The error code indicates that the machine's short-term memory (RAM)[ref en-1] is full. Sometimes this can be caused by repeatedly putting the computer to sleep instead of shutting it down. The error seems to occur on Windows 10, Windows 8.1, and Windows 7.

Although there is no single solution to the Windows update error 0xc80003f3, there are certain steps you can take to try to fix the issue. In this guide, you will find 5 solutions that may help you fix the update process. Installing Windows feature updates and security patches is important to keep the system running smoothly so we recommend you complete all the steps.

You can also use a maintenance tool like [d1] that can fix most system errors, BSODs,[ref en-2] corrupted files, and registry[ref en-3] issues. This powerful software can also automatically clear cookies and cache which are often the culprits of many malfunctions. Otherwise, proceed with the instructions provided below.

Solution 1. Run the Update Troubleshooter

• Press the Windows + X keys and go to Settings
• Go to Update and Security
• Click Troubleshooter
• Select Additional troubleshooters
• Run the Update troubleshooter

• Restart

Solution 2. Delete Files in the SoftwareDistribution Folder

• Press Windows key + R to open the Run command box
• Type services.msc and click OK
• In Services control panel locate the Windows Update service
• Right-click on Windows Update service and select Stop
• Now open Windows Explorer and navigate to: C:\\Windows folder

• Find the SoftwareDistribution folder and Delete its contents

Solution 3. Enable Services used by Windows Updates

• Press the Windows key + R to open the Run box
• Type cmd and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open up an elevated Command Prompt
• If you’re prompted by the User Account Control (UAC), click Yes at the window
• Type the following commands and hit Enter after each one:

SC config trustedinstaller start=auto

SC config bits start=auto

SC config cryptsvc start=auto

• Perform a system reboot and check if the issue persists

Solution 4. Install the Update Manually

Whenever Windows updates fail to install automatically, you can always try doing it manually. First, you need to find out which KB number is relevant to you.

• Right-click Start button and pick Settings
• Go to Update & Security
• On the right, locate and click View update history

• From the list, note the KB number that fails to install with the error code
• Go to Microsoft Update Catalog page, type in the KB number and press Search

• Download the update and install it manually

(Note: if you are dealing with a Windows upgrade issue, make sure you also download KB4498524 and KB4515384 updates as well)

Solution 5. Repair Install Windows

• Download the Windows 10 ISO file
• Now mount the ISO file
• Double-click on the file setup.exe to start the repair, install from the mounted drive
• When the installation provides the License Terms, read them and click Accept
• Windows 10 will now check for updates and will install the ones available
• When all is set, click Install

• When the installation is complete, follow the on-screen instructions