How to fix
Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable error 0x80070641
on Windows

Hi, I faced some difficulties launching a game and encountered problems with File Explorer, so I opted to reset Windows. However, when it came to it, I could not update Windows to the latest version - I got an error 0x80070641 while trying to install Visual C++ Redistributables. These are essential for playing my games. Please help?

Many Windows users may come across error 0x80070641 when trying to install Visual C++ Redistributable updates or when installing the package for the first time. The error can occur during updates via Windows Update or manual installation of Visual C++.

The message points to the obstruction of the update from being installed properly, leading to disruption in the regular operation of certain applications that rely on Visual C++.

What causes the 0x80070641 error?

There could be numerous reasons why you get the 0x80070641 error. One of the main reasons why users experience it is because of the .NET Framework component, which might be disabled, outdated, or corrupted, thereby impeding the successful installation process.

Moreover, issues within the Windows operating system itself, such as corrupted system files or incomplete previous updates, can also prompt this error. Another frequent cause is associated with the Windows Update services, which might not be running or configured properly. Conflicts with antivirus software or other system settings can also disrupt the update process.

Possible ways to fix the 0x80070641 error

In order to resolve the 0x80070641 error, you can try several different methods. The first thing you should do is make sure that the .NET Framework component is enabled and up to date. If that is not helping you, running the Windows Update troubleshooter might be, as it can point you in the right direction.

You should also enable relevant services like Windows Installer and Windows Update - these can ensure that all the components needed for the update process are operational. As corrupted system files can cause numerous issues on Windows machines, repairing them with SFC and DISM scans might potentially resolve the 0x80070641 error.

You can find the guide on how to perform these (and other) steps below if you need help. However, if you are not fond of manual tackling of Windows problems, we recommend you try using a powerful PC repair tool [d1], which can automatically resolve Windows problems and optimize system performance.

Fix 1. Enable .NET Framework

Making sure the .NET Framework is enabled guarantees that all the important components are working and can help with installing updates for Visual C++ Redistributable.

• Type Control Panel in Windows search and select Programs.
• Select Turn Windows features on or off.
• Enable .NET Framework 3.5 (includes .NET 2.0 and 3.0).
• Next, enable .NET Framework 4.8 Advanced Services and press the plus icon next to it.
• Make sure to enable ASP.NET 4.8 as well.
• Click OK.

Fix 2. Update .NET Framework

Updating the .NET Framework can fix any compatibility problems that might be stopping the update from occurring.

• Go to Microsoft's official website and download the latest .NET Framework.
• Install it by following the on-screen instructions.
• Restart your computer.

Fix 3. Run Windows update troubleshooter

A troubleshooter is a built-in Windows tool that is easy to use - it can also solve problems related to a particular issue; in this case - a Windows update.

• 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.

Fix 4. Enable relevant services

Making sure the necessary services are enabled guarantees that Windows Update and Windows Installer services are working properly.

• Type in Services in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Scroll down a bit to find the Windows Installer service.
• If it is already running, right-click and select Restart.
• If the service is not running, double-click it, pick Automatic under the Startup type drop-down menu.
• Click Start, Apply, and OK.
• Repeat this process for Windows update, Windows Update and Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) and Cryptographic services.

Fix 5. Repair corrupted system files

Repairing corrupted system files can address underlying issues that may be causing the update error.

• Type cmd in Windows search
• Right-click on Command Prompt result and select Run as administrator
• When User Account Control shows up, click Yes
• Paste the following command into the new window:
  sfc /scannow
• Press Enter and wait till the scan is finished
• Once done, run this set of commands, pressing Enter every time:
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  DISM Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth 
  (Note: if you get an error executing this last command, add /Source:C:\RepairSource\Windows /LimitAccess to it and try again).
• Reboot your computer.

Fix 6. Perform a Clean Boot

A Clean Boot can be useful for pinpointing and solving conflicts with other software that may be getting in the way of the update.

• Type msconfig in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Go to the Services tab and tick the Hide all Microsoft services checkbox.
• Select Disable all.
• Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
• Here, right-click on each of the non-Windows entries and select Disable.
• Close down the Task Manager.
• Go to the Boot tab and tick the Safe boot option.
• Restart your device and try installing it again.

Fix 7. Repair-install Windows

• 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 select Next
• Windows will now download all the necessary files – it might take awhile
• Agree to 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)
• Click Install to begin the upgrade process.