How to fix
Windows update error 0x80240035
on Windows

Yesterday I noticed that there's an updater pending for Windows, so I tried to install it. It downloaded fine but then when it came to installation of the thing, it got stuck at around 30% and wouldn't move anymore. After a while, I'd get Windows update error 0x80240035.

Windows update error 0x80240035 is a generic issue that prevents updates from being installed on Windows operating systems. It primarily shows up during an update, leading to failed or partial installations that can weaken system security and performance. The error has been reported by some users on Windows 11, where updates are stuck or display an error without providing the user with much insight into the real problem.

The issue can be brought on by any number of various factors. A corrupt update packages or lost connection when downloading can make error code 0x80240035 pop up during the installation, for instance. Sometimes, system setting errors or something being amiss in the Windows Update components will interfere with the process.

Some users compared this bug to when the Microsoft Store freezes during update, as both are cases of partially executed updates where both the system and network appear to be fine. Other reasons could include interference from antivirus programs, insufficient disk space, or system file conflict.

Signs of Windows update error 0x80240035 typically involve freezing or never-ending failure to update, supplemented by error notifications that prevent other progress. Subsequently, systems may fail to be updated accordingly and may eventually be left open to security attack or performance drop.

Several kinds of troubleshooting options are typically put forward in repairing error 0x80240035, from checking the validity of update components to Windows Update component resetting and system settings authentication. For people who would prefer an automated approach over manual treatment, the [d1] repair and maintenance software is an effortless solution.

Fix 1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

The built-in troubleshooter can automatically detect and fix common issues with Windows Update.

• Type Troubleshoot in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Select Additional troubleshooters/Other troubleshooters.
• Find Windows Update from the list and click Run the troubleshooter/Run.
• The troubleshooter will automatically scan your system for potential problems and display any issues it finds.
• If the troubleshooter finds any issues, it will provide recommended solutions.

Fix 2. Ensure sufficient disk space

Insufficient disk space can prevent updates from installing.

• 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. Reset Windows Update components

Resetting the update components can clear corrupted settings that block updates.

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
• The User Account Control (UAC) window will ask whether you want to allow changes to your computer - click Yes.
• 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.
• Restart the Windows Update-related services by running the following commands:
  net start wuauserv
  net start cryptSvc
  net start bits
  net start msiserver
• Restart your computer.

Fix 4. Disable third-party antivirus or firewall

Sometimes antivirus software or firewalls can block Windows updates from installing.

• Open your security software and open its settings/options.
• Find an option to disable protection.
• After doing so, try updating Windows again.
• If you have other apps that could interfere with your connection (such as firewall or VPN), make sure you disable them as well.

Fix 5. Check Windows update services

Ensuring that the necessary update services are running can help avoid installation errors.

• Type in Services in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Scroll down a bit to find Windows Update.
• 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 Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) and Cryptographic services.

Fix 6. Repair corrupted system files

Corrupted system files may cause update failures. Running system scans can repair these issues.

• Open Command Prompt as administrator.
• Next, copy and paste the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
  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 7. Install the update manually

Downloading and installing the update manually can bypass issues with the Windows Update service.

• Type Updates in Windows search and press Enter.
• Click View update history.
• Here, note down the KB number that failed to install with the error code 0x80240035.
• Go to the official Microsoft Update Catalog website.
• Type the KB number into the search bar, and press Enter or 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).
• Right-click on Start and pick System.
• Under Device specifications, check the System type section: it should either be 64-bit or 32-bit.
• Scroll down to Windows specifications and check the Version section.
• With all this information, pick the correct version for your device.
• Go back to the Microsoft Update catalog, download the appropriate version, and install it.