How to Resolve Error Code 0x80070002 in Windows 10/11 Updates

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For most Windows users, it's quite common to encounter this scenario: "An error occurred while checking for new updates for your computer. Errors found: Code 80070002 Windows Update encountered an unknown problem."

You might encounter this issue when attempting to install certain Windows 10 updates, like KB3200970 or others. You'll observe that the update begins downloading, but as soon as it reaches the stage where it should be installing, it either fails instantly and removes itself or reboots your computer, only to fail again and uninstall.

Solutions to Fix Error Code 0x80070002

When encountering this type of error, don't panic! There are several straightforward solutions for this issue, even for those without extensive technical expertise. Simply follow the steps outlined in the methods below to effectively address Windows Update errors 0x80070002 or 0x80070003.

Solution 1: Quick Fix - Check Time Settings

Details are crucial for success, and the time settings play a significant role in Windows updates. Simply verifying and adjusting the date and time settings might resolve your issue.

1. Click "Control Panel" 2. Open "Date and Time" 3. Click "Change date and time" and adjust as needed 4. Set your time zone before clicking "OK" 5. Click on the "Internet Time" tab, then select "Change Settings" 6. Check "Synchronize with an Internet time server" and choose a Time Server from the provided list 7. Click "Update Now" 8. Click "OK" twice to finish the configuration and close all windows

Following this, restart your computer before attempting to access Windows Update. If the time on your system was incorrect, performing the steps above should resolve the 0x80070002 error for you.

Solution 2: Check and Remove Corrupted System Files

If the quick fix doesn't work, it's recommended to scan your system for any corrupted files.

First, Scan and Check for Corrupted System Files

1. Click the Windows icon, type "CMD," and then right-click on Command Prompt. Choose "Run as Administrator." 2. Type "SFC /scannow" and press Enter. 3. Wait for the process to finish.

If you receive a message indicating that everything was successful, try running Windows Update again. If you encounter an error message stating that corrupted files were detected but could not be repaired, please attempt to remove the corrupted files.

Second, Remove Corrupted Windows Update Files

1. Click the "Start" button and choose "Control Panel". In the search bar, type "Administrative Tools" and hit Enter. 2. In the resulting window, locate and double-click on "Services". If prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, enter the password and provide confirmation. 3. Sort the list by clicking the "Name" tab alphabetically, which will help you easily locate the "Windows Update" service. Right-click on it and select "Stop".

If deleting system files doesn't resolve the issue, you can rectify the 0x80070002 error by eliminating the Software Distribution folder to assist in resolving this problem. Proceed with Solution 3 to address it now.

Solution 3: Delete the Software Distribution Folder to Resolve Error 0x80070002

The Software Distribution folder is located on the C drive of your system. It resides within the folder that stores all downloaded Windows updates.

It might be the case that certain files within the folder are corrupted, which could hinder or prevent the installation of updates. Deleting the folder can potentially resolve error code 0x80070002. Here are the straightforward steps to follow:

1. Click on "This PC" or "My Computer." 2. Navigate to the "C:\Windows" folder. 3. Search for and either delete or rename the folder named "SoftwareDistribution." If you prefer not to delete it, you can rename it to "SoftwareDistributionOld." 4. Restart your computer before attempting to access the Windows Update Store. You should now see updates downloading and installing. This process should help resolve the error code 0x80070002 for you.

Solution 4: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

When encountering any issues with Windows Update, using the Windows Update Troubleshooter is always a recommended solution. Visit the Microsoft official website, search for "Troubleshooter," download it, and this tool will automatically diagnose and resolve common problems with Windows Update.

Important Note: Back Up Data When Encountering Error 0x80070002

Data loss occurs every day and any of the aforementioned solutions might lead to data loss. Hence, it's crucial to backup your files. Some users might think that backing up files could be quite complicated. Actually, with the assistance of a professional tool - Todo Backup, it's really effortless. You can learn more about it at Todo Backup Software.

Step 1. To start the backup process, click the Select backup contents button.

Step 2. Four data backup categories are displayed: File, Disk, OS, and Mail.

Step 3. Lists of both local and network files are displayed on the left side of the screen. Expand the directory to select the files you want to back up.

Step 4. Follow the on-screen instructions and select the location where you want to save the backup.

Ensure the backup is encrypted by clicking on Options within Backup Options. Additionally, you can set the backup schedule by clicking Options under Backup Scheme, allowing you to initiate the backup at a specific time. There are numerous other customizable options available for you to explore.

Step 5. You can save the backup file on your computer, in the tool's cloud service, or on a Network-Attached Storage (NAS) device.

Step 6. Todo Backup allows customers to store backup copies of their files on a third-party cloud drive or on the company's own cloud storage.

If you wish to back up your data to a third-party cloud drive, choose 'Local Drive' and scroll down to add a 'Cloud Device.' Next, enter your account details.

Click Cloud Backup, then sign up and log in with your Todo Backup account if you wish to store backup files on Todo Backup's own cloud storage service.

Step 7. Click on Backup Now to initiate a backup. When the backup process is completed, it will be displayed as a card on the left side of the screen. Right-clicking on it will provide more information on how to manage the backup job in greater detail.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Fixing Error Code 0x80070002 in Windows 10/11 Update

What does error code 0x80070002 signify?

You might encounter the error message "Error(s) found: Code 80070002 Windows Update encountered an unknown problem" when attempting to install certain Windows 10 updates, like KB3200970 or others. This indicates that Windows Update is unable to locate the updates.

2. How do I resolve a Windows 10 update error?

There are several methods you can attempt to resolve this issue.

1. Firstly, you can run the Windows Update Troubleshooter, which is an automated tool designed to detect common issues and attempt to resolve them.
2. Secondly, you can manually download the updates directly from Microsoft's Download Center and subsequently install them.
3. Thirdly, you can attempt to reset the Windows Update components. This process will remove any existing updates and then reinstall them fresh from the beginning.
4. Fourthly, you can try disabling your antivirus software temporarily and then retry installing the updates.