Resolving Windows Update Error 0x80070490
To resolve Windows Update Error 0x80070490, start by running the Windows Troubleshooter, which identifies and fixes common issues. Perform a System File Check using `sfc /scannow` in Command Prompt to find and repair corrupt files. Furthermore, use the DISM tool with the command `DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth` for correcting image corruption. Resetting update components involves stopping update services, renaming SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders, and restarting services. If these steps fail, consider temporarily disabling third-party antivirus software or conducting a thorough malware scan. By following these steps, further insights and solutions can be explored.
Understanding Error 0x80070490
Error 0x80070490 typically indicates issues with corrupted system files or Windows Update components. This error often arises when users attempt to install cumulative updates or upgrade their operating system, disrupting the installation process.
One main cause of this error is the corruption of Component-Based Servicing (CBS) files, which are vital for managing the installation of updates. Furthermore, registry corruption can greatly impact the update process, leading to this error.
Corrupted system files are another common culprit, leading to failures in the smooth execution of updates. Third-party software conflicts can likewise play a role, interfering with the proper functioning of update components.
Regular system maintenance, including running scans and updates, is important to minimize the occurrence of error 0x80070490 and maintain overall performance. Utilizing a troubleshooting tool can help identify and resolve these underlying issues.
Understanding these main causes and maintaining system health through proactive measures can effectively reduce the frequency of encountering this error, ensuring a stable and efficient Windows operating system.
Running Windows Troubleshooter
To address error 0x80070490, utilizing the Windows Troubleshooter can effectively identify and resolve update-related issues. First, navigate to the Start menu, select Settings, then go to Update & Security, and click on Troubleshoot. In the Troubleshoot menu, choose Additional troubleshooters and select Windows Update. By clicking on the 'Run the troubleshooter' button, you initiate a scan for any update-related issues.
The troubleshooter will conduct a thorough scan of your system to detect the root causes of error 0x80070490. During this process, it will provide on-screen instructions, guiding you through potential fixes based on the issues it identifies. Follow these instructions carefully to guarantee all necessary adjustments are made.
Once the troubleshooting process is complete, it is crucial to restart your system. Restarting guarantees that any changes implemented by the troubleshooter are fully applied, thereby increasing the likelihood of resolving the error.
After the restart, attempt to run Windows Update again to verify if the issue has been resolved. Utilizing the Windows Troubleshooter is a straightforward and efficient method to diagnose and fix update-related problems, ensuring your system remains up-to-date and functional.
Performing a System File Check
Performing a System File Check (SFC) is a vital troubleshooting step for identifying and repairing corrupted system files that may be causing error 0x80070490.
To initiate this process, open Command Prompt as an administrator by right-clicking the Start button and selecting 'Command Prompt (Admin)' or 'Windows PowerShell (Admin)'. Once the Command Prompt window appears, type the command `sfc /scannow` and press Enter. This command instructs Windows to scan all protected system files for integrity violations and repair them if necessary.
The SFC scan can take some time to complete, so patience is important during this phase. Upon completion, the scan results will indicate whether corrupted files were found and whether they were successfully repaired or if further action is required.
It is imperative to restart your computer after running the SFC scan to confirm that any repairs made take effect and to verify if the Windows error code 0x80070490 persists.
Using DISM Tool
The Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) is a powerful utility that can be employed to repair the Windows image and resolve issues related to the Windows Update error 0x80070490. This tool is particularly effective in scanning for and repairing corrupted system files that might be causing the error code.
To use DISM, open an elevated command prompt and enter the command `DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth`. This command initiates the process of restoring the health of the Windows image by performing an online cleanup-image operation.
Throughout this procedure, DISM will check for corruption within the system files and attempt to repair any identified issues. This process may take several minutes to complete, depending on the extent of corruption and the system's performance.
It is crucial to have an active internet connection during running the DISM command, as the tool may need to download replacement files from Windows Update to fix the corrupted system image effectively.
Resetting Update Components
After utilizing the DISM tool to repair the Windows image, the next step involves resetting the Windows Update components to further address error 0x80070490.
To reset components, you must first stop services related to Windows Update, including the Windows Update service, Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), and Cryptographic services. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and execute the following commands:
`net stop wuauserv`,
`net stop cryptSvc`,
`net stop bits`,
`net stop msiserver`.
These commands will stop services critical to the update process.
Next, rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders to guarantee fresh copies are created during the next update process. Execute these commands in Command Prompt:
`ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old`
and
`ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old`.
Renaming these folders can fix the problem of corrupted files within them.
Once the folders are renamed, restart the previously stopped services with the commands:
`net start wuauserv`,
`net start cryptSvc`,
`net start bits`,
`net start msiserver`.
Finally, check for updates again in the Windows Update settings to determine if the error code 0x80070490 has been resolved.
Utilizing the update troubleshooter can further confirm that resetting the update components has effectively resolved the error.
Disabling Third-Party Antivirus
Disabling third-party antivirus software can mitigate conflicts that interfere with the Windows Update process, potentially resolving error 0x80070490.
Antivirus programs like Norton, AVG, and McAfee sometimes block crucial system files and services needed for successful updates. These conflicts can prevent Windows from completing its update process, leading to the aforementioned error.
To address this issue, you can temporarily pause real-time protection instead of fully uninstalling the antivirus software. This action reduces the risk of exposing your system to threats during the attempt to resolve the update error.
Once you have disabled the antivirus, attempt to run the Windows Update process again to see if the error persists. This step helps determine if the third-party antivirus was the cause of the conflict.
Creating a New Local Account
Creating a new local account can effectively reset user-specific settings, potentially resolving the Windows Update error 0x80070490. To begin this process, navigate to the Settings menu on your computer. From there, select Accounts and proceed to the Family & other users section. Here, you will find an option to 'Add someone else to this PC.'
Choose this option and follow the prompts to create a local account. Make sure you fill in the necessary information, such as username and password, to complete the setup.
Once the new local account is created, sign in using the new credentials. Check if the Windows Update error 0x80070490 persists. If the issue is resolved, you can consider transferring important files from your old account to the new one.
This step guarantees that no vital data is lost during the changeover. After successfully transferring your files, you may choose to delete the old account to clean up your system.
Scanning for Malware
To address potential disruptions caused by malicious software, scanning for malware is an essential step in resolving the Windows Update error 0x80070490.
Malicious software can corrupt system files, interfering with the Windows Update process and causing this specific error. Ensuring that your system is free of malware is vital for the smooth functioning of updates.
Windows Defender, the built-in antivirus tool in Windows, offers reliable malware scanning capabilities. Users can conduct quick or full scans to identify and remove harmful software.
Moreover, third-party antivirus software provides advanced scanning features that can detect a wider array of malware types. Regular scans should be part of routine maintenance to keep the system free from infections that could disrupt updates.
To effectively scan for malware, follow these steps:
- Use Windows Defender: Run a full scan using Windows Defender to identify and remove any malicious software affecting system files.
- Employ Third-Party Antivirus Software: Utilize supplementary antivirus software to perform thorough scans, ensuring no malware is missed.
- Keep Software Up-to-Date: Regularly update your antivirus software to protect against newly emerging threats that could cause Windows Update errors.
Deleting Software Distribution Folder
Addressing the Windows Update error 0x80070490 likewise involves handling issues within the Software Distribution folder, a critical component that stores temporary files necessary for updates.
To delete the contents of this folder, begin by stopping the Windows Update service. Open 'services.msc' by typing it into the Start menu's search bar and hitting Enter. Locate the Windows Update service in the list, right-click it, and select 'Stop'. This action halts any ongoing processes and permits safe deletion of the folder's contents.
Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution and delete all files and folders within. This step guarantees that any corrupted files contributing to the error code are removed.
After deleting the contents, return to the 'services.msc' window and right-click the Windows Update service again, selecting 'Start' to restart the service.
Once the Windows Update service is running again, proceed to the Windows Update settings in the Control Panel or Settings app. Click on 'Check for updates' to initiate a search for available updates. This process should now proceed without encountering the error code 0x80070490, effectively resolving the issue.
Call Zoo for your Tech Needs
In sum, resolving Windows Update error 0x80070490 necessitates a methodical approach, encompassing troubleshooting tools and system checks.
Employing the Windows Troubleshooter, System File Check, and DISM Tool can rectify many underlying issues.
Furthermore, resetting update components, disabling third-party antivirus, and creating a new local account serve as practical steps.
Scanning for malware and deleting the Software Distribution Folder further guarantee system integrity.
These measures, even though seemingly laborious, are crucial for maintaining a well-functioning Windows environment.
