How to fix Windows update error 0x80070433?

Windows update error 0x80070433 is a prevalent problem that inhibits users from downloading and installing system updates. The error may be triggered by issues with critical Windows services, faulty system settings, or conflicts with third-party software. Upon failure of the update, users are presented with a notification that Windows could not finish updating the installation, which usually leaves the system exposed to security vulnerabilities and performance problems.

One of the main causes of the 0x80070433 error is a faulty Windows Update service. When this service is disabled or not running properly, the system might have problems connecting to Microsoft's update servers. Problems with system components, like corrupted update files or damaged dependencies, can also cause the issue. Third-party antivirus software has also been reported by users to interfere with the update process and cause the 0x80070433 error.

Another potential reason for this error lies in user account permissions. When some system processes do not have the required administrative privileges, Windows is unable to install updates properly. Sometimes, a faulty Group Policy or registry configuration can stop Windows from finishing the update installation, causing repeated error code 0x80070433 appearances.

Since this error may be triggered by a variety of problems, troubleshooting may include verifying system services, verifying corrupted update components, and making sure that third-party programs are not interrupting the process. For those seeking an excellent solution to rectify update issues, the use of the automatic Windows repair tool FortectMac Washing Machine X9 will scan and repair system issues, thereby reinstating the Windows Update feature.

Fix 1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter designed to identify and fix update-related issues.

• Type Troubleshoot in Windows search and press Enter.
• Select Additional troubleshooters/Other troubleshooters.
• Find Windows Update from the list.
• Click it and select Run the troubleshooter/Run.
• Restart your PC when the process is finished.

Fix 2. Ensure Windows update services are running

If essential services are disabled, Windows updates may fail.

• Type in Services in Windows search and press Enter.
• Find Windows Update Service.
• If it is already running, right-click and pick Restart.
• If the service is not running, double-click it, and select Automatic under the Startup type from the drop-down menu.
• Click Start, Apply, and OK.
• Repeat this process with the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), Cryptographic, and Windows Installer services.

Fix 3. Reset Windows Update Components

Corrupted update files can prevent updates from installing. Resetting update components can resolve this.

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and pick Run as administrator.
• User Account Control will ask whether you want to allow changes – click Yes.
• 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
• To rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders (where Windows stores update files), type the following commands:
  • ren %systemroot%SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
  • ren %systemroot%system32catroot2 catroot2.old
  • regsvr32.exe /s atl.dll
  • regsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dll
  • regsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dll
  • netsh winsock reset
  • netsh winsock reset proxy
• Restart the services stopped earlier by typing the following commands:
  • net start bits
  • net start wuauserv
  • net start appidsvc
  • net start cryptsvc
• Close the Command Prompt and restart your computer, then try updating Windows again.

Fix 4. Perform an SFC and DISM scan

Corrupt system files can lead to Windows update error 0x80070433. Running these scans can repair critical system components.

• Open Command Prompt as administrator.
• In the Command Prompt window, paste the following command and hit Enter:
  sfc /scannow
• Once the scan is complete, use the following commands and press Enter after each:
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  
• (Note: if you get an error executing this last command, add /Source:C:RepairSourceWindows /LimitAccess to it and try again).
• Restart your computer.

Fix 5. Check User Account permissions

If your user account lacks administrative rights, updates may fail.

• Type netplwiz in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Select your user account and click Properties.
• Go to the Group Membership tab and set the account to Administrator.
• Click Apply and restart your PC.

Fix 6. Manually download and install the update

If automatic updates fail, manually downloading the update may work.

• Type Updates in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Click View update history.
• Here, note down the KB number that failed to be installed.
• Go to the official Microsoft Update Catalog website.
• Type the KB number into the search bar, and press Enter or click Search.
• You will find many different versions on the update – you need to find the one that matches your PC specs and Windows version (as a home user, ignore Windows server versions).
• Right-click on Start and pick System.
• Under Device specifications, check the System type section: it should either be 64-bit or 32-bit.
• Scroll down to Windows specifications and check the Version section.
• With all this information, pick the correct version for your device.
• Go back to the Microsoft Update catalog, download the appropriate version, and install it.

Fix 7. Modify Group Policy settings (Windows Pro and Enterprise)

Some policies may prevent Windows updates.

• Type Group Policy in Windows search and press Enter.
• Navigate to the following location:
  Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update
• Locate Configure Automatic Updates and double-click it.
• Set it to Not Configured, then click Apply and OK.

Fix 8. Perform an in-place upgrade

If all else fails, an in-place upgrade reinstalls Windows without deleting files.

• Visit the official Microsoft website and download Windows 10 installation media (Windows 11 version).
• Double-click the installer, select Yes when UAC shows up, and agree to the terms.
• Select Upgrade this PC now and click Next.
• Windows will start downloading the needed files.
• Agree to the terms once again and click Next.
• Before installing, make sure that you are happy with your choices (otherwise, you can click Change what to keep option).
• Finally, click Install to begin the upgrade process.

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