Windows Update Error 0x80073712 is a common issue that occurs when a file needed by Windows Update is either missing or corrupted. This error can prevent your system from installing updates, which may lead to security vulnerabilities and performance issues. In this article, we will explore several methods to resolve this error using built-in Windows tools and commands.

Examples:

1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter:

   The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built-in tool that can automatically detect and fix common update problems.

   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
   • Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

2. Use the System File Checker (SFC) Tool:

   The SFC tool scans and repairs corrupted system files.

   • Open Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by typing cmd in the search bar, right-clicking on Command Prompt, and selecting Run as administrator.
   • Type the following command and press Enter:

     sfc /scannow

   • Wait for the scan to complete. If it finds any corrupted files, it will attempt to repair them.

3. Use the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM):

   DISM can be used to repair the Windows image and resolve component store corruption.

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

     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

   • This process might take some time. Once completed, restart your computer and try running Windows Update again.

4. Manually Reset Windows Update Components:

   If the above methods do not work, you can manually reset Windows Update components.

   • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
   • Stop the BITS, Windows Update, and Cryptographic services by typing the following commands and pressing Enter after each:

     net stop bits
     net stop wuauserv
     net stop appidsvc
     net stop cryptsvc

   • Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders by typing the following commands:

     ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
     ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old

   • Restart the services you stopped earlier:

     net start bits
     net start wuauserv
     net start appidsvc
     net start cryptsvc

   • Try running Windows Update again.

5. Check for Disk Errors:

   Sometimes, disk errors can cause update issues. Use the CHKDSK tool to check for and fix disk errors.

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

     chkdsk /f /r

   • You will be prompted to schedule the disk check on the next restart. Type Y and press Enter.
   • Restart your computer to allow CHKDSK to run.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the Windows Update Error 0x80073712 and ensure that your system can install updates properly.