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Resolving Update Error Code 0x80240020 in Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

2024/04/02
PC Repair

Key Notes

  • Error Code 0x80240020 indicates a problem with the Windows Update process.
  • ACertain updates may fail if Automatic Updates requests cannot be processed.
  • Several straightforward solutions are available to fix this error.

Troubleshooting Windows Update Error Code 0x80240020: A Complete Guide

Encountering Error Code 0x80240020 while trying to update your Windows 10 or 11 system can be frustrating. This guide examines the underlying issues and provides effective solutions to resolve the problem.

Effective Solutions for Resolving Update Error Code 0x80240020

Step 1: Activate the Use My Sign-In Info Option

Start by configuring your sign-in settings in Windows Update.

  • Press Win + I to open the Settings window.
  • Navigate to Accounts > Sign-in options.

For Windows 11

  • Access the Additional Settings section.
  • Enable the toggle for Use my sign-in info to automatically finish setting up after an update.

For Windows 10

  • Scroll down to the Privacy section.
  • Enable Use my sign-in info to automatically finish setting up my device and reopen my apps after an update or restart.

Pro Tip: Reboot your PC and check if the error persists after logging in again.

Step 2: Utilize the Windows Update Troubleshooter

If the error remains, run the Windows Update Troubleshooter to detect and fix any underlying issues.

For Windows 11

  • Open the Settings menu using Windows + I.
  • Select System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  • Locate Windows Update and click the Run button.

For Windows 10

  • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
  • Type ms-settings: and click OK.
  • Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Windows Update.
  • Click on Run the troubleshooter.

Pro Tip: Restart your computer after running the troubleshooter to ensure updates are applied.

Step 3: Check and Enable BITS Service

Ensure that the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) is running properly as it plays a crucial role in Windows Updates.

  • Click on Start, type Services, and press Enter.
  • Find the Background Intelligent Transfer Service and double-click it.
  • In the General tab, verify if the Service status is Running.
  • If it’s Stopped, click the Start button and select OK to save changes.

Pro Tip: Restart your PC after enabling BITS for effective changes.

Step 4: Delete and Recreate the SoftwareDistribution Folder

Sometimes, the SoftwareDistribution folder may contain corrupt files. Follow these steps to recreate it:

  • Open the Run dialog using Win + R.
  • Type services.msc and press OK.
  • Locate and double-click on the following services to stop them:
    • Windows Update service
    • Background Intelligent Transfer service
    • Cryptographic services
  • Open File Explorer using Win + E and navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\.
  • Delete all contents or rename the folder to softwaredistribution.old.

After this, open Command Prompt as an Admin and run:

wuauclt.exe /updatenow

Restart the previously stopped services and reboot your PC.

Step 5: Modify Registry Settings

If the issue persists, tweaking the registry might be the next step, but proceed with caution. Always back up your system first.

  • Right-click the Windows icon and select Run.
  • Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  • Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsUpdate\OSUpgrade.
  • If this key is missing, create it by right-clicking on WindowsUpdate > New > Key and name it OSUpgrade.
  • Inside this key, create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named AllowOSUpgrade and set its value to 0x00000001.

Pro Tip: A system backup is crucial before making any registry changes to avoid system corruption.

Additional Tips for Success

  • Always check for available storage before updates.
  • Regularly run disk cleanup to maintain system health.
  • Keep drivers updated to avoid compatibility issues.

Summary

In this guide, we addressed the common reasons behind the Windows Update Error Code 0x80240020 and provided comprehensive steps to troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively. Following the outlined procedures should help ensure smooth Windows updates moving forward.

Conclusion

By following the methods outlined above, you can effectively tackle the Error Code 0x80240020 and maintain the integrity of your Windows update process. If you encounter any further issues, do not hesitate to reach out for additional assistance.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What does Error Code 0x80240020 mean?

Error Code 0x80240020 indicates that the Windows Update process could not complete due to issues with the logged-on user or system service errors.

How can I fix Error Code 0x80240020?

You can fix the error by enabling specific sign-in settings, using the Windows Troubleshooter, ensuring the BITS service is running, and recreating the SoftwareDistribution folder. Additionally, tweaking registry settings can also help resolve the issue.

PC Repair