Resolving Windows Update Error 0x80073712: Step-by-Step Solutions

Common Causes of Windows Update Error 0x80073712

The Windows Update Error 0x80073712 can occur due to several reasons, which include:

• Missing Files: Critical system files required for the update process might be missing.
• Corrupted Files: Files may be corrupted due to previous incomplete updates or malware infections.
• Disk Errors: Bad sectors on the hard disk affecting file integrity.
• Software Conflicts: Conflicts with third-party software or system utilities.

Solutions to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80073712

Below are the most effective solutions to resolve the Windows Update Error 0x80073712. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

1. Go to Settings by pressing Windows + I.
2. Select Update & Security, then click on Troubleshoot.
3. Click on Additional troubleshooters.
4. Select Windows Update and click on Run the troubleshooter.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions and allow the troubleshooter to identify and fix issues.

2. Use the System File Checker (SFC) Tool

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator by typing cmd in the search bar, right-clicking on it, and selecting Run as administrator.
2. Enter the command:

   sfc /scannow
   
   

3. Wait for the scan to complete. The SFC tool will automatically repair corrupted system files if possible.

3. Run Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM)

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Run the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

3. These commands will check the system image for corruption and attempt to restore any issues.
4. Restart your computer after the process is complete.

4. Check the Hard Disk for Errors

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:

   chkdsk /f /r

3. When prompted, type Y to allow the disk check to run on the next restart.
4. Restart your computer and let the disk check process complete.

This process will find and repair bad sectors and other disk-related errors that might be causing the issue.

5. Reset Windows Update Components

If the issue persists, you may need to reset the Windows Update components manually:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Stop the Windows Update services by executing these commands:

   net stop wuauserv

   net stop cryptSvc

   net stop bits

   net stop msiserver

3. Rename the Software Distribution and Catroot2 folder by entering:

   ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old

   ren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 Catroot2.old

4. Restart the Windows Update services by typing:

   net start wuauserv

   net start cryptSvc

   net start bits

   net start msiserver

5. Restart your computer and try running Windows Update again.

6. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot can help in eliminating software conflicts that may cause the Windows Update Error 0x80073712:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
2. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
3. Navigate to the Startup tab and click on Open Task Manager.
4. Disable all startup items by selecting and clicking Disable.
5. Close the Task Manager, click OK, and restart your computer.

Try updating Windows again in clean boot mode to check if the problem is resolved.

7. Use System Restore

If none of the above solutions work, use System Restore to revert your system to a previous point before the error occurred:

1. Press Windows + S and type System Restore, then click on Create a restore point.
2. In the System Properties window, click on the System Restore button.
3. Follow the prompts to select a restore point and restore your system.

Further Assistance

If the Windows Update Error 0x80073712 persists despite trying all the solutions above, you may need to contact Microsoft Support or consult professional technical support services for more advanced assistance.