Windows Update Error 0X80070308 is a common issue that can prevent your system from downloading and installing updates. This error typically indicates a problem with the Windows Update service or related components. In this article, we will explore various methods to troubleshoot and resolve this error using built-in Windows tools and commands.

Examples:

1. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

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

   • Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
   • Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
   • Click on Additional troubleshooters.
   • Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

2. Reset Windows Update Components

   Sometimes, resetting the Windows Update components can resolve the error. You can do this via the Command Prompt:

   • Open Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by typing cmd in the Windows search bar, right-clicking on Command Prompt, and selecting Run as administrator.

   • Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:

     net stop wuauserv
     net stop cryptSvc
     net stop bits
     net stop msiserver
     ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
     ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
     net start wuauserv
     net start cryptSvc
     net start bits
     net start msiserver

   • Close the Command Prompt and try running Windows Update again.

3. Check for Corrupted System Files

   Corrupted system files can also cause Windows Update errors. You can use the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) to repair them.

   • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

   • Run the SFC scan by typing:

     sfc /scannow

   • Wait for the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions.

   • If the SFC scan does not fix the issue, run the DISM tool:

     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

   • After the DISM process completes, restart your computer and try updating Windows again.

4. Check Windows Update Services

   Ensure that the necessary Windows Update services are running:

   • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.

   • Type services.msc and press Enter.

   • In the Services window, locate the following services and ensure they are running:

     • Windows Update
     • Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
     • Cryptographic Services

   • If any of these services are not running, right-click on them and select Start.