How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x8007371c
To fix Windows Update Error 0x8007371c, start by running the Windows Update troubleshooter from Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot. If the issue persists, clear the contents of the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders by stopping the update services, deleting the contents, and restarting the services. In addition, run the System File Checker (sfc /scannow) and DISM commands to repair corrupted system files. Manual download and installation of updates from the Microsoft Update Catalog can also help. Ensuring smooth operation of vital services and verifying network configurations are important steps to prevent the error from reoccurring. Learn more for further detailed instructions.
Understanding Error 0x8007371c
Error 0x8007371c, likewise known as ERROR_SMI_PRIMITIVE_INSTALLER_FAILED, signifies a failure during the Windows setup or servicing process, commonly encountered during Windows Updates. This Windows Update Error typically arises because of corrupted system files, issues with Windows update components, or interference from third-party antivirus software. Understanding the root causes of this error is important for effective troubleshooting and resolution.
Corrupted system files are a primary culprit behind ERROR_SMI_PRIMITIVE_INSTALLER_FAILED. These files are critical for the smooth operation of the Windows update process, and any corruption can lead to significant issues. Furthermore, problems within the Windows update components themselves can prevent updates from installing correctly. Third-party antivirus software can likewise interfere with the update process, flagging legitimate update processes as threats and blocking their execution.
Addressing this error quickly is essential for maintaining system integrity and ensuring the smooth operation of Windows updates. Common troubleshooting methods include running the Windows Update Troubleshooter, clearing the SoftwareDistribution folder, and using DISM commands to repair the Windows Component Store.
Ignoring error 0x8007371c can lead to further complications with system updates and overall performance, making timely resolution imperative for ideal system functionality.
Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Initiating the Windows Update Troubleshooter is a crucial first step in diagnosing and resolving error 0x8007371c. To begin, navigate to Start > Settings > Update & Security. From there, click on Troubleshoot and select Additional troubleshooters. Within this section, locate Windows Update and click on Run the troubleshooter. This action will initiate an automatic diagnostic process designed to detect and fix issues that might be hindering the update process, including complications specific to error 0x8007371c.
The troubleshooter functions by examining various Windows Update components, identifying irregularities, and attempting to rectify them. Its automated nature guarantees that even users with minimal technical expertise can address potential problems effectively.
Once the troubleshooter completes its assessment and any necessary repairs, it is advisable to restart your PC. This step guarantees that all changes are fully implemented and provides an opportunity to verify whether the error 0x8007371c has been resolved.
Regularly utilizing the Windows Update Troubleshooter can help maintain system integrity and prevent future issues within the update process. By proactively addressing these issues, users can guarantee a smoother and more reliable update experience, reducing the likelihood of encountering similar errors in the future.
Simple Solutions for Error Resolution
After using the Windows Update Troubleshooter, consider employing simple solutions to resolve error 0x8007371c effectively. These straightforward approaches can often address the underlying issues causing the error, ensuring a smoother Windows Updates process.
1. Restart Your Computer: This basic step can resolve minor glitches that may be interfering with Windows Updates. A restart refreshes the system and clears temporary files that might cause conflicts.
2. Rename the Catroot2 Folder: Renaming this folder helps reset Windows Update components. To do this, open Command Prompt as an administrator and type:
```
net stop cryptsvc
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
net start cryptsvc
```
This forces Windows to recreate the Catroot2 folder upon reboot, potentially resolving update failures.
3. Run SFC and DISM Tools: System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) can repair corrupt system files. Execute these tools via Command Prompt:
```
sfc /scannow
dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
```
4. Manual Update Installation: Download and install updates directly from the Microsoft Update Catalog to bypass common installation errors associated with error 0x8007371c.
Implementing these steps can greatly improve your chances to fix Windows Update Error, ensuring your system remains up-to-date and secure.
Clear SoftwareDistribution Folder
To troubleshoot and potentially resolve error 0x8007371c, clearing the SoftwareDistribution folder is a vital step. This action can help resolve issues related to Windows Update malfunctions by removing potentially corrupted files.
To begin, open an elevated command prompt by right-clicking the Start button and selecting 'Command Prompt (Admin)' or 'Windows PowerShell (Admin).'
First, you need to stop the Windows Update services to prevent interference during clearing the folder. Execute the commands `net stop wuauserv` and `net stop bits` in the command prompt. These commands halt the Windows Update and Background Intelligent Transfer Service, respectively.
Next, navigate to the SoftwareDistribution folder located at `C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution`. Here, delete all files and subfolders within the SoftwareDistribution folder, but confirm you do not delete the folder itself. This step is essential as it clears out any potentially corrupted files that may be causing the update error.
After clearing the contents, restart the previously stopped services by running `net start wuauserv` and `net start bits` in the command prompt. This allows Windows to recreate the necessary update files.
Delete Catroot and Catroot2 Folders
Deleting the Catroot and Catroot2 folders is a crucial step in resolving Windows Update error 0x8007371c, as it can address corruption issues within these system folders.
The Catroot2 folder is automatically recreated upon reboot, making it safe to delete. Meanwhile, the Catroot folder, which serves as a repository for Windows Update files, can likewise be cleared to troubleshoot update failures. This process involves stopping specific services to confirm the folders are not in use during deletion.
To delete these folders, follow these steps:
- Stop Cryptographic Services: Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges and type `net stop cryptsvc`.
- Navigate to System32 Directory: Go to `C:\Windows\System32` using File Explorer.
- Delete Folders: Manually delete the Catroot and Catroot2 folders.
- Restart Services: Return to Command Prompt and type `net start cryptsvc` to restart the services.
These steps can help mitigate system instability caused by corrupted update files.
It is advisable to back up important data before making changes to system files and folders to prevent unintended consequences. Properly following these guidelines guarantees a high probability of resolving the Windows Update Error 0x8007371c.
Run SFC and DISM Commands
Running SFC and DISM commands can greatly aid in repairing corrupted system files and resolving Windows Update error 0x8007371c efficiently.
The System File Checker (SFC) tool can be executed with the command `sfc /scannow`, which scans for and repairs corrupted system files that may be causing update errors. This process is a vital step in maintaining system integrity and preventing future issues.
If the SFC scan identifies problems it cannot fix, the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) can be utilized. Commands like `DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth` allow you to check the health of the Windows image and identify any issues within the component store. Should these issues be found, the `DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth` command can replace damaged files from a local or online source.
After running both SFC and DISM commands, it is important to restart your PC. This guarantees that the repairs take effect and allows you to verify if the update error has been resolved.
Regularly using SFC and DISM can help prevent update errors, such as 0x8007371c, thereby maintaining system stability and performance.
Manually Download and Install Updates
After employing SFC and DISM commands to address system file issues, manually downloading and installing updates can further resolve Windows Update error 0x8007371c.
To manually download and install updates, follow these steps:
- Visit the [Microsoft Update Catalog](https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com) website.
- Use the specific update's KB number to search for the required update.
- Download the appropriate version for your system architecture (e.g., x64 for 64-bit systems).
- After downloading the update file (.msu), double-click it to initiate the installation process and follow the prompts.
This manual approach guarantees you are directly addressing the update requirements without relying on the automated Windows Update process, which may have encountered errors.
It is essential to check the update page for any prerequisites or dependencies before installation to confirm a smooth process. This can prevent common pitfalls that lead to incomplete updates or installation failures.
Additionally, manually downloading updates from the Microsoft Update Catalog provides a more controlled environment, allowing users to verify and manage each step of the installation.
Additional Resources and Recommendations
Leveraging Microsoft's extensive knowledge base and support forums can provide valuable insights and solutions for resolving Windows Update error 0x8007371c. These resources offer detailed troubleshooting guides and community-driven support that can help users navigate this common issue effectively.
Furthermore, the Microsoft Update Catalog is a vital tool for manually downloading updates, potentially bypassing errors encountered with the automatic installer.
A failed update can often be traced back to issues with specific Windows services. Confirm that important services, such as Windows Update, Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), and Cryptographic services, are running correctly. Misconfigurations in these areas can result in persistent error messages during updates.
Running SFC (System File Checker) can likewise be an important step in diagnosing and repairing corrupted system files that may contribute to update failures. This command-line tool scans and restores system files, potentially resolving issues that cause updates to fail.
Moreover, it is important to verify your network configurations and firewall settings. Misconfigured network settings can disrupt the update process, leading to failed installations. Monitoring the BITS service can provide real-time insights into potential issues, allowing for timely troubleshooting and resolution.
Call Zoo for your Tech Needs
In the maze of software maintenance, resolving Windows Update Error 0x8007371c requires methodical steps.
Employing the Windows Update Troubleshooter, clearing the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot folders, and running SFC and DISM commands are crucial navigation tools.
Manual installation of updates serves as a final beacon of resolution.
By following these structured procedures, the path to a smoothly functioning system becomes illuminated, guiding users from confusion to clarity in maintaining their digital environment.
