The Problem:
Windows Server 2022 users may encounter the error code 0x800F0831 (-2146498511) when attempting to install the cumulative update KB5051979. This error prevents the update from being applied successfully, potentially leaving the server without important security patches and improvements.

Problem Analysis:
The error 0x800F0831 typically indicates a failure in the update process due to missing or corrupted files that are necessary for the update to proceed. Users may notice that the update process starts but eventually fails with this error code. The issue often arises after a failed update attempt or if there are connectivity issues with the Windows Update servers.

Root Cause:
The root cause of the error 0x800F0831 is usually related to missing dependencies or components that the update requires. This can happen if a previous update did not install correctly, or if certain files are missing from the Windows component store (WinSxS). Additionally, network issues or incorrect update configurations can prevent the server from accessing the necessary files from the Windows Update servers.

Solution:
To resolve the 0x800F0831 error when installing KB5051979 on Windows Server 2022, follow these steps:

1. Check Update History:

   • Open the Windows Update settings and review the update history to identify any previous updates that failed to install. Re-attempt to install any failed updates before proceeding.

2. Use Windows Update Troubleshooter:

   • Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter to automatically detect and fix common update issues.
   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters and select Windows Update.

3. Check Network Connectivity:

   • Ensure that the server has a stable internet connection and can access Windows Update servers. Test connectivity by pinging www.windowsupdate.com.

4. Reset Windows Update Components:

   • Open Command Prompt as an administrator and execute the following commands to stop Windows Update services:

     net stop wuauserv
     net stop cryptSvc
     net stop bits
     net stop msiserver

   • Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders to reset Windows Update components:

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

   • Restart the services:

     net start wuauserv
     net start cryptSvc
     net start bits
     net start msiserver

5. Repair System Files:

   • Use the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) to repair corrupted system files.
   • Run the following commands in Command Prompt as an administrator:

     sfc /scannow
     dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth

6. Manually Install the Update:

   • Download the standalone package for KB5051979 from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
   • Manually install the update by running the downloaded .msu file.

7. Review Logs:

   • If the issue persists, review the Windows Update logs located at C:\Windows\Logs\CBS\CBS.log for more detailed error messages and address any specific issues mentioned.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the 0x800F0831 error and successfully install the KB5051979 update on Windows Server 2022.