Troubleshooting Windows Update Error 0x8007371c
Error 0x8007371c in Windows Update often results from corruption within the Windows Component Store, preventing update installations. To troubleshoot, first run the Windows Update Troubleshooter via Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot. If the issue persists, utilize Command Prompt commands like `sfc /scannow` and `DISM` for system repairs. Advanced techniques include clearing the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders to resolve deeper corruption. These steps remove problematic files and allow updates to proceed anew. Moreover, manually downloading updates from the Microsoft Update Catalog can bypass errors effectively. Learn more to guarantee a thorough troubleshooting process.
Understanding Error 0x8007371c
Error 0x8007371c, likewise known as ERROR_SMI_PRIMITIVE_INSTALLER_FAILED, typically signifies a failure during the Windows Update setup or servicing process. This error often emerges because of potential corruption within the Windows Component Store, a crucial repository that maintains system files required for updates. When this store is compromised, it can obstruct the installation of updates for Windows, leading to further complications.
A common symptom of error 0x8007371c includes the inability to install cumulative updates, often coupled with related error codes such as 2147956508. Prompt troubleshooting is critical to prevent further system degradation. One effective method involves running the System File Checker (SFC) tool, which scans and repairs corrupted system files.
Furthermore, the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) can be employed to restore the health of the Windows Component Store, further aiding the update process.
Understanding the underlying causes and symptoms of error 0x8007371c is paramount for maintaining system integrity. By leveraging built-in utilities like SFC and DISM, users can address the corruption issues effectively, ensuring that updates for Windows can resume seamlessly.
Running the Windows Update Troubleshooter
A highly effective initial step for addressing Windows Update errors, including error 0x8007371c, is to run the Windows Update Troubleshooter. This built-in tool is designed to detect and resolve common issues that prevent Windows updates from installing correctly.
To access the Windows Update Troubleshooter, navigate to Start > Settings > Update & Security, then select the troubleshoot section. Within this section, click on Additional troubleshooters, and then select Windows Update. This will initiate the troubleshooting process. Running the troubleshooter will automatically identify and attempt to fix update-related errors, including error 0x8007371c. The automatic repair process is straightforward; after clicking on Run the troubleshooter, follow any on-screen prompts to complete the procedure.
Utilizing the Windows Update Troubleshooter is a recommended first step as it can save time and effort compared to manual troubleshooting methods. By addressing the common issues that often cause update failures, this tool helps guarantee that your system's settings for Windows updates are correctly configured.
Employing this method can considerably streamline the resolution process for update-related errors, providing a solid foundation for further troubleshooting if necessary.
Simple Solutions for Error Resolution
Restarting your PC is a straightforward yet effective method for resolving minor glitches that may cause the 0x8007371c update error. This simple action can refresh the system and eliminate transient issues that interrupt the update process.
Nevertheless, if the error persists, consider the following additional solutions:
- Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter: This built-in tool can automatically detect and repair issues related to the update process. Access it through the Settings menu, navigate to 'Update & Security,' and follow the on-screen instructions to fix Windows errors.
- Utilize the Command Prompt: Open the command prompt as an administrator and run commands like `sfc /scannow` and `DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth`. These commands can scan for and repair corrupted system files that may be causing errors and make your update process smoother.
- Boot into Safe Mode: Restart your PC in Safe Mode to perform troubleshooting without interference from third-party software. This isolated environment can help identify and resolve conflicts affecting Windows updates.
- Manually Download Updates: Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog to download and install updates manually. This method can bypass errors associated with the automatic update process and guarantee your system remains up-to-date.
Implementing these steps can considerably improve your chances of resolving the 0x8007371c update error.
Clearing the SoftwareDistribution Folder
Clearing the SoftwareDistribution folder is a vital step in resolving persistent Windows Update errors such as 0x8007371c. The SoftwareDistribution folder, located at C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution, stores temporary files that assist in the update process. To clear this folder, first, stop the Windows Update services by executing the commands `net stop wuauserv` and `net stop bits` in an elevated command prompt. This action guarantees that the necessary services are halted, preventing conflicts.
Next, navigate to the SoftwareDistribution folder, select all files within the folder, and delete them. It is important to retain the folder itself and only remove its contents. By doing so, you eliminate potentially corrupted files that may be causing the error code 0x8007371c. After deleting the files, restart the Windows Update services by running `net start wuauserv` and `net start bits`. This reinitializes the update process, allowing Windows Update to function correctly.
| Step | Command | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Stop services | `net stop wuauserv` | Halts the Windows Update services |
| Delete files | – | Removes files in SoftwareDistribution folder |
| Restart services | `net start wuauserv` | Reinitializes the Windows Update services |
Regularly clearing the SoftwareDistribution folder can prevent conflicts and promote smoother updates.
Deleting Catroot & Catroot2 Folders
Deleting the Catroot and Catroot2 folders is a significant step in addressing Windows Update errors, such as error code 0x8007371c. These folders play an important role in Windows Update and cryptographic operations. Deleting catroot and catroot2 folders can help you troubleshoot errors and restore system functionality.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Stop Cryptographic Services: To safely delete the Catroot2 folder, you first need to stop the Cryptographic Services. Open an elevated command prompt and type the command `net stop cryptsvc`. This action guarantees that the folders can be deleted without causing system issues.
- Access the Folders: Navigate to C:\Windows\System32 where you will find both Catroot and Catroot2 folders. Deleting these folders can assist in resolving Windows Update errors, such as 0x8007371c.
- Delete Catroot2: You can safely delete the Catroot2 folder as it will be automatically recreated upon reboot. Be cautious with the Catroot folder since improper handling can lead to system boot issues.
- Restart Cryptographic Services: After deleting the folders, restart the Cryptographic Services by typing `net start cryptsvc` in the command prompt. This guarantees proper functionality during subsequent Windows Updates.
Advanced Fixes and Commands
Removing the Catroot and Catroot2 folders can resolve some Windows Update errors. Advanced fixes and commands offer further methods to address more persistent issues.
One effective approach is using the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM). Running commands such as `DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth` and `DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth` can repair corrupted Windows Component Store files, which may be causing the update error code 0x8007371c.
In addition, regularly using the System File Checker (SFC) tool to scan for and repair corrupted system files can prevent these errors and make your PC more reliable during updates.
Another crucial tool is the Windows Update Troubleshooter. This built-in repair tool can automatically diagnose and fix various Windows Update issues.
For more severe problems, performing a System Restore can revert your system to a previous state before the errors occurred, potentially fixing persistent update failures.
Additional Resources and Recommendations
For further assistance in resolving Windows Update errors, consider leveraging the Microsoft Update Catalog to manually download and install updates. This method can be particularly useful when automatic updates fail, guaranteeing you have the latest patches available to fix errors and make system improvements.
Here are additional resources and recommendations to help address Windows Update Error 0x8007371c:
- Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter: Run the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter to detect and fix errors related to the update process. This tool is designed to identify common issues and provide automated solutions.
- Monitor Key Services: Regularly check the status of vital services like the Windows Update (wuauserv) and Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) to confirm they are running smoothly. Any interruptions in these services can cause update failures.
- Review Network Configurations: Examine your network settings and firewall configurations to ascertain they are not blocking the update process. Misconfigured settings can lead to errors during updates.
- Consult Official Guides: Microsoft provides detailed troubleshooting guides tailored to specific update errors, including 0x8007371c. These guides offer step-by-step instructions to resolve issues effectively.
Call Zoo for your Tech Needs
Conclusively, addressing Windows Update error 0x8007371c involves a series of methodical steps.
From running the built-in troubleshooter to clearing specific system folders, each solution plays a pivotal role in resolving the issue.
Advanced commands and fixes offer additional layers of remediation.
By adhering to these guidelines, users can restore system functionality and maintain a stable operating environment.
The path to resolution, though potentially arduous, eventually leads to a more reliable and efficient system.
Such diligence guarantees peak performance and user satisfaction.
