How to fix
Windows update error 0xca020007
on Windows

Hello. I tried to install updates on my Windows 10 PC but I received the 0xca020007 error. What should I do to fix this?

Windows updates are essential for keeping the operating system running smoothly. Updates offer bug fixes, new features, and security patches which are particularly important because hackers can use software vulnerabilities[ref en-1] to deliver their malicious programs. However, for many different reasons, sometimes Windows updates fail to install.

Recently, some users received the 0xca020007 error when trying to install updates. It is unknown why exactly this error appears. Generally, Windows updates fail to install because of malfunctioning Windows updates, system file corruption, files in the SoftwareDistribution folder, etc. 

In this guide, you will find 6 steps that should help you install the update successfully. Minor issues can be fixed automatically with the built-in update troubleshooter. If all quick steps fail to fix the issue, you should use the Media Creation Tool to update your Windows device.

Keep in mind, that manual troubleshooting can become a lengthy process. You can use a maintenance tool like [d1] that can scan your machine and fix most system errors, BSODs,[ref en-2] corrupted files, and registry[ref en-3] issues. Otherwise, follow the step-by-step instructions 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. Repair Corrupted System Files

Use Command Prompt commands to repair system file corruption:

• Open Command Prompt as administrator
• Use the following command and press Enter:
  sfc /scannow

• Reboot your system
• If SFC returned an error, then use the following command lines, pressing Enter after each:
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Solution 3. Clear the SoftwareDistribution Folder

• Press the Windows key + R to open the Run command box
• Type services.msc and click OK
• In the Services control panel locate the Windows Update service
• Right-click on the 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 4. Restart Windows Update Service

• Press the Windows key + R to open the Run window
• Type services.msc and press Enter
• Find the Windows Update service
• Right-click on it and select Properties
• Change the Startup type to Automatic

• Click on Apply button to save the changes
• Start the Windows Update service by clicking on the Start button
• If your service is already enabled then click on Restart
• Reboot your computer and check if the issue is fixed

Solution 5. 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

Solution 6. Update via Media Creation Tool

• Download Windows 10 installation media from the official website
• Open the tool once it installed
• Agree to license terms

• Choose Upgrade this PC now
• Wait for the update to be installed