Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070002 / 0x80070003

How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070002 / 0x80070003
The Windows Update errors 0x80070002 and 0x80070003 are two of the most common issues users face when trying to update their operating system. These errors, often displayed with a message like “The system cannot find the file specified,” indicate that Windows Update is unable to locate the necessary update files.

This guide will provide a series of effective troubleshooting steps to resolve these errors, ranging from simple fixes to more advanced command-line solutions.

Understanding the Errors 0x80070002 and 0x80070003
These two error codes share a similar meaning: a file is missing or corrupted, preventing the update process from proceeding. This often happens because:

Corrupted Update Cache: The temporary files that Windows Update stores in the SoftwareDistribution folder are corrupted.

Incorrect Date and Time: An incorrect system date and time can interfere with the security certificates used to download updates.

Corrupted System Files: Essential Windows files, not just update files, may be damaged.

Third-Party Software Interference: An antivirus program or firewall might be blocking the download of update files.

Step-by-Step Solutions
Solution 1: Check Date and Time Settings
An incorrect system clock can cause sync issues with Microsoft’s update servers. This is a simple but surprisingly effective fix.

Right-click on the clock in your taskbar and select “Adjust date and time”.

Ensure that “Set time automatically” and “Set time zone automatically” are both turned on.

If they are already on, turn them off and on again to force a resync.

Solution 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
The built-in troubleshooter can often automatically detect and fix the underlying issues.

Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.

Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.

Find “Windows Update” in the list and click “Run”.

Follow the on-screen instructions.

Solution 3: Reset Windows Update Components
If the update cache is corrupted, you’ll need to manually reset the Windows Update components by renaming the SoftwareDistribution and catroot2 folders.

Press the Windows key + R, type cmd, and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt as an administrator.

Stop the BITS and Windows Update services with these commands, pressing Enter after each:
net stop wuauserv
net stop bits

Rename the folders using these commands:
ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 Catroot2.old

Restart the services with these commands:
net start wuauserv
net start bits

Close the Command Prompt and try running Windows Update again.

Solution 4: Use the System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted system files can sometimes be the cause. The SFC tool can help repair them.

Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

Wait for the scan to complete.

Restart your computer and try the update again.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I get a message saying I don’t have permission to rename the folders. What should I do?
A: This means the update services are still running. Make sure you opened Command Prompt as an administrator and that you correctly ran the net stop commands. You may need to restart your computer and try again.

Q: Could my antivirus software be causing this?
A: Yes. An overzealous antivirus or firewall can block the download of update files. Try temporarily disabling your security software and running the update. Remember to re-enable it afterward.

Q: The errors keep coming back. What’s a more permanent solution?
A: If the errors are persistent, a deeper issue may exist. Try running the DISM tool to repair the system image:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
If that fails, consider performing a Repair Upgrade using the Windows Media Creation Tool, which reinstalls Windows without deleting your personal files.

Conclusion
The 0x80070002 and 0x80070003 errors are typically a sign of corrupted update files. By correctly resetting the Windows Update components, checking your system’s integrity with SFC, and ensuring your time settings are correct, you can resolve these issues in most cases. If the problems persist, using the DISM tool or a Repair Upgrade are reliable next steps to get your system back on track.