How to fix
Windows update error 0xc1900401
on Windows
Resolve Windows update error 0xc1900401 quickly with our expert-tested solutions. Get your system running smoothly again—zero traces left!
What causes How to fix Windows update error 0xc1900401?
- Corrupted files or folders
- Insufficient disk space
- Weak or low-speed internet connection
- Disabled system update services
- PUP or malware leftovers
Repairs Windows system files, removes malware, and restores a clean OS state — without reinstalling.
Hello. I need help with the update error 0xc1900401. I get the failed install error message and cannot fix the problem with the options found online. SFC tool showed and solved nothing. Forums and Reddit offer nothing better. I need serious help, because I am devastated at this point.
Installing pending updates might often fail and lead to error messages, other system issues. It happens on Windows 10 machines and on recently upgraded devices that run Windows 11 operating system.[ref en-1] Users reported these issues for a while,[ref en-2] and received no particular fixes that could be universal for all frustrated people.
The issue is related to the launched upgrades for the version of Windows 10. The problem appears to bother users while trying to update the OS. It is common to receive errors during such a process because an upgrade requires particular files to be there and needs space. If there is not enough space or some files are corrupted, altered, damaged - issues occur and the procedure fails entirely.
Windows update error code 0xc1900401 can be triggered by the weak or low speed of the internet. OS updates require good quality of connection. You might want to check the speed or try to upgrade the OS at a less busy time when the speed is better. Also, the quality of the attached devices can lead to issues, disconnecting any devices from the computer when they are not needed.
Disabled services of the system update can always create issues with the procedure because the service is not enabled properly on the machine. The error can easily appear when the system has corrupted files, folders, system settings, preferences regarding the system reboot, and startup. PUP or malware[ref en-3] leftovers often cause such issues.
Corruption inside Windows folders is one of the more common causes for errors like Windows update 0xc1900401. Such common issues can be solved with applications like [d1] because this tool is designed to find and repair issues with corrupted files, altered settings, damaged components.
If you can point to the time when the additional issues started to occur besides the error, you might know that application installation or corruption with a third-party app causes this Windows update error 0xc1900401. If these solutions are not related to your situation - follow the guide and try a few methods to find the one that helps to fix this Update error.
1. Check the Windows Update service
- Click Start and start typing for services.msc.
- Open it.
- A new window will open containing all Windows services.
Windows update error 0xc1900401 services - Search for Windows Update.
- Right-click the Windows Update and then click Stop.
Windows update error 0xc1900401 update services
2. Clear temporary cache for Windows Update
- Hold your windows key and hit R key.
- Run window will appear.
Windows update error 0xc1900401 run box - Type %windir%\\SoftwareDistribution\\DataStore in this new window and click OK.
- This will open Windows Explorer.
- Delete all contents of this folder.
3. Start the Windows Update service
- Go back to the Windows Services.
- Locate Windows Update.
- Right-click on it and choose Start.
4. Troubleshoot the Windows update
- Press Win + I, navigate to Settings.
- Choose System, then Troubleshoot.
Windows update error 0xc1900401 troubleshooter - Hit Other troubleshooters.
- Find Windows Update.
- You will see a Run button beside Windows Update - click it.
- Reboot your PC when the troubleshooting process is completed
Windows 10
- Go to Settings.
Windows update error 0xc1900401 settings - Choose Update & Security.
- Hit Troubleshoot and find Additional troubleshooters.
- Locate and click Windows Update.
- Hit the button Run the troubleshooter.
Windows update error 0xc1900401 troubleshooter - Let this tool find and resolve any issues.
- Once this is over, reboot your computer.
Bottom line
To address the Windows update error 0xc1900401, ensure that there is enough disk space, check your internet connection quality, and disable any unnecessary devices. Additionally, consider using applications designed to repair corrupted files and settings. If these solutions do not resolve the issue, further assistance may be needed.
Frequently asked questions
The error 0xc1900401 typically indicates that there is a problem with the installation of a Windows update on Windows 10 or Windows 11, often due to corrupted system files or issues with the update components.
To resolve the 0xc1900401 error, you can try running the Windows Update Troubleshooter and ensuring that all system files are intact by using the System File Checker tool.
Yes, you can manually download the specific update from the Microsoft Update Catalog and install it, which may bypass the issues causing the 0xc1900401 error.
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