Error code 0x80070017 while Windows Update [Solution]

If you see error code 0x80070017 while updating Windows, this guide will help you fix this Windows update error. Follow the steps below to ensure a smooth update process.

1. Access Windows Update Settings

1. Open the Start Menu and click on Settings.
2. Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update.
3. Check if any updates are pending or if the error code 0x80070017 is displayed.

2. Restart and Retry

• Restart your computer.
• After rebooting, navigate back to Windows Update and click Check for Updates.
• Allow Windows to download and install updates.

3. Run Windows Troubleshooter

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
2. Select Windows Update and click Run the Troubleshooter.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to detect and fix issues.

4. Reset Windows Update Components

1. Copy and paste the following commands to a notepad file.

SC config trustedinstaller start=auto
net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
net stop msiserver
net stop cryptsvc
net stop appidsvc
Ren %Systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
Ren %Systemroot%\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
regsvr32.exe /s atl.dll
regsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dll
regsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dll
netsh winsock reset
netsh winsock reset proxy
rundll32.exe pnpclean.dll,RunDLL_PnpClean /DRIVERS /MAXCLEAN
net start bits
net start wuauserv
net start msiserver
net start cryptsvc
net start appidsvc

2. Save the above commands into a batch file with the name Wufix.bat

3. Right-click on the Wufix.bat file and choose Run as administrator.
4. Restart your PC and check for updates again.

5. Run Clean and Repair Commands

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Run these commands to clean up and repair system components:

dism /online /cleanup-image /startcomponentcleanup
sfc /scannow
dism.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth

6. Use Windows Update Assistant

1. Download the Windows Update Assistant from the official Microsoft website.
2. Run the assistant and follow the instructions to update your system.

Download links for Update Assistant:
Windows 10: https://www.microsoft.com/en-in/software-download/windows10
Windows 11: https://www.microsoft.com/en-in/software-download/windows11

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7. Manually Download Updates

1. Note the KB number of the failed update.
2. Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.
3. Search for the KB number and download the update manually.
4. Install it by double-clicking the downloaded file.

8. Reinstall Windows (As a Last Resort)

If none of the above methods work, you may need to reinstall Windows. Ensure you back up all your data before proceeding.

1. Use the Media Creation Tool from the Microsoft website to create a bootable USB.
2. Boot from the USB and follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows.

By following these steps, you can resolve the error code 0x80070017. If you’re still experiencing issues, consider consulting a professional or contacting Microsoft Support.