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How to Fix the Windows Update Error Code 0x80070643 on Your PC

Key Takeaways

  • The 0x80070643 error code typically occurs when there are corrupted system files or issues with the Windows Update components
  • You can try running the Windows Update Troubleshooter, using the DISM and SFC command-line tools, or resetting the Windows Update components to fix this error
  • If the issue persists, you may need to perform a repair install or reset your PC to factory settings as a last resort

The Windows 10 operating system is designed to receive regular updates from Microsoft to enhance security, fix bugs, and introduce new features. However, the update process can sometimes encounter errors, one of which is the 0x80070643 error code. This error can be frustrating, as it prevents your PC from receiving important updates, leaving it vulnerable to security threats and performance issues.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various methods to help you resolve the 0x80070643 error code and get your Windows Update process back on track.

Understanding the 0x80070643 Error Code

The 0x80070643 error code is a generic error that can occur due to various reasons, including corrupted system files, issues with the Windows Update components, or conflicts with third-party software or drivers. This error can manifest in different ways, such as:

  • Windows Update gets stuck at a certain percentage and fails to complete the installation.
  • You receive an error message stating, “There were some problems installing updates, but we’ll try again later. If you keep seeing this and want to search the web or contact support for information, this may help: (0x80070643).”
  • The Windows Update process fails to start or hangs indefinitely.

Method 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Microsoft provides a built-in troubleshooter that can help identify and resolve common issues with the Windows Update process. Here’s how to run the Windows Update Troubleshooter:

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Click on “Update & Security.”
  3. In the left pane, select “Troubleshoot.”
  4. Under the “Get up and running” section, click on “Windows Update.”
  5. Click “Run the troubleshooter” and follow the on-screen instructions.

The troubleshooter will scan for and attempt to fix any issues related to the Windows Update process. If it finds and resolves the problem, try running Windows Update again to see if the 0x80070643 error has been resolved.

Method 2: Use the DISM and SFC Command-Line Tools

The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) and System File Checker (SFC) tools are powerful command-line utilities that can help repair corrupted system files, which may be causing the 0x80070643 error. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for “Command Prompt” in the Start menu, right-clicking on it, and selecting “Run as administrator.”
  2. In the Command Prompt window, run the following command and wait for it to complete:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
  1. Once the DISM command has finished, run the SFC command by typing the following and pressing Enter:
sfc /scannow

This process may take some time, depending on the number of files that need to be scanned and repaired. Once the SFC command has completed, restart your PC and try running Windows Update again.

Method 3: Reset the Windows Update Components

If the previous methods fail to resolve the 0x80070643 error, you can try resetting the Windows Update components. This process will stop and restart the necessary services and clear any cached data that may be causing conflicts. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator (follow the steps in Method 2).
  2. In the Command Prompt window, run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each command:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
  1. After running the above commands, navigate to the following folder by typing the command below and pressing Enter:
cd %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution\
  1. Once in the SoftwareDistribution folder, run the following command to delete all files and folders within it:
ren Download Download.old
ren DataStore DataStore.old
  1. Next, run the following commands to restart the stopped services:
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
  1. Finally, restart your PC and try running Windows Update again.

Method 4: Perform a Repair Install or Reset Your PC

If none of the above methods work, you may need to perform a repair install or reset your PC to factory settings as a last resort. A repair install will reinstall Windows while keeping your personal files and some settings intact, while a reset will restore your PC to its original out-of-the-box state.

Repair Install:

  1. Go to the “Settings” app and select “Update & Security.”
  2. Click on “Recovery” in the left pane.
  3. Under the “Reset this PC” section, click “Get started.”
  4. Select “Keep my files” and follow the on-screen instructions to perform a repair install.

Reset Your PC:

Please note that resetting your PC will remove all installed applications, and you’ll need to reinstall them after the process is complete.

By following these methods, you should be able to resolve the 0x80070643 error code and get your Windows Update process back on track. However, if the issue persists, you may need to seek further assistance from Microsoft Support or a professional technician.

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