How to fix
KB5046740 fails to install
on Windows

How do I resolve KB5046740 failing to install on my Windows 11 system? It was just released and I'd like to see the preview build but I can't because it does not install, citing that there has been a problem and Windows will try later.

Windows Update is quite important in keeping your system secure, stable, and current. However, an optional preview update to Windows 11, namely KB5046740, has some users experiencing installation issues after the release on November 21, 2024. This particular LCU is targeted for systems running Windows 11 version 23H2, featuring various improvements and fixes to enhance the performance and security of the OS.

What does KB5046740 include?

This update introduces fixes for Microsoft Office apps, improvements for Windows Hello functionality, and enhancements to Bluetooth connectivity. It also addresses network performance problems, and File Explorer crashes, and includes vital security updates to protect your system from vulnerabilities.

Despite these benefits, some users have reported issues with KB5046740 failing to install, accompanied by error codes or incomplete downloads.

Possible causes of KB5046740 installation failures

Several reasons might explain why this update cannot be installed:

• The system drive might not have enough free space for the update.
• Corrupted Windows components could block the installation process.
• Poor internet connectivity might disrupt downloading or verifying update files.
• Background apps or outdated drivers might interfere with update compatibility.

Resolving KB5046740 installation errors

If KB5046740 fails to install, addressing the issue may involve freeing up disk space, running diagnostic tools to repair corrupted files, or closing conflicting software. Additional manual instructions are outlined below, starting with simpler solutions and progressing to more advanced methods.

For those seeking an automated fix, [d1] repair can streamline the troubleshooting process, addressing update-related issues efficiently while minimizing manual effort.

Fix 1. Perform Disk Cleanup

Disk Cleanup not only frees some space on your drive but also gets rid of potentially buggy cache files that could be impacting 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 2. Repair corrupted files

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and pick 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 3. Install the update manually

Check if you can install the update manually instead.

• Go to the official Microsoft Update Catalog website.
• Type the KB5046740 into the search bar, and click Search.
• You will find many different versions on the update – you need to find the one that matches your PC specs and Windows version (as a home user, ignore Windows server versions).
• After picking the correct version, click the Download button and proceed with the on-screen instructions.
• Restart your computer to implement the new updates.

Fix 4. Pause and unpause updates

• Open Settings.
• Click on Windows Update.
• Click on the drop-down menu and select Pause updates for 1 week (or another time period).
• Restart your computer.
• Go back to Windows Update and click Resume updates.

Fix 5. Run Clean Boot

• Type msconfig inWindows Search and press Enter to open the System Configuration window.
• 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 6. Re-register update DLL files

• Open Command Prompt as administrator.
• Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
  regsvr32 wuapi.dll
  regsvr32 wuaueng.dll
  regsvr32 wups.dll
  regsvr32 wups2.dll
  regsvr32 wuwebv.dll
  regsvr32 wucltux.dll
• Once done, restart your computer.

Fix 7. Reset Windows update components

• Open Command Prompt as administrator as previously explained.
• Use the following command lines - make sure you press Enter every 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 computer and attempt to download the update once more.