Windows Update is a critical feature that ensures your system stays secure and up-to-date. However, sometimes you might encounter errors during the update process. One such error is 0x80242016, which indicates an unexpected state post-reboot. This article will guide you through the steps to resolve this error in Windows 10.

Understanding Error 0x80242016

The error code 0x80242016, also known as WU_E_UH_POSTREBOOTUNEXPECTEDSTATE, signifies that the Windows Update process encountered an unexpected state after a reboot. This can be caused by various issues such as corrupted system files, incomplete updates, or conflicts with third-party software.

Steps to Resolve Error 0x80242016

Step 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
2. Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
3. Select Additional troubleshooters.
4. Click on Windows Update and then Run the troubleshooter.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

Step 2: Reset Windows Update Components

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by typing cmd in the Start menu, right-clicking on Command Prompt, and selecting Run as administrator.

2. Execute the following commands one by one:

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

3. Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders by executing the following commands:

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

4. Restart the services by executing the following commands:

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

5. Close the Command Prompt and restart your computer.

Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

2. Run the System File Checker tool:

   sfc /scannow

3. After the scan is complete, run the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM):

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

4. Restart your computer and try running Windows Update again.

Step 4: Check for Conflicting Software

Sometimes third-party software can interfere with Windows Update. To check for conflicting software:

1. Boot your computer in Safe Mode:

   • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
   • Go to the Boot tab and check Safe boot.
   • Click OK and restart your computer.

2. Try running Windows Update in Safe Mode. If it works, a third-party application might be causing the issue.

3. Identify and uninstall the conflicting software:

   • Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter.
   • Look for recently installed applications and uninstall them.

4. Reboot your computer normally by unchecking Safe boot in the System Configuration tool.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the 0x80242016 WU_E_UH_POSTREBOOTUNEXPECTEDSTATE error in Windows 10. Regularly updating your system and maintaining a clean environment can help prevent such issues in the future.