Windows 10 Update Error 0x800f081f: 5 Easy Fixes

In spite of Windows’ many improvements over the years, users still occasionally encounter error messages. Error Code 0x800F081F is one of the most common errors encountered when trying to install updates on Windows 10.

This error usually accompanies the message: “Windows could not find required files to complete the requested changes”. This post will discuss the causes and possible methods to fix the Windows 10 Update error 0x800f081f.

What Is Error Code 0x800F081F Caused By?

Error Code 0x800F081F can have several variations and causes, depending on the circumstances. Some of these variations include:

• 0x800f081f – CBS_E_MANIFEST_VALIDATION_DUPLICATE_ATTRIBUTES: This error is caused when two or more components in the Windows component store have the same name.

• 0x800f081f – CBS_E_SOURCE_MISSING: This error is caused when the source files required to install a component are missing or not available.

• 0x800f081f – CBS_E_INVALID_INSTALL_STATE: This error is caused when the state of the system or component doesn’t match what Windows expects.

This error can also occur if the system has not been updated for some time, or if other components are preventing the installation of updates correctly. Whatever the cause, there are a few easy fixes you can try to solve this problem and get your updates installed.

How to Fix Error 0x800f081f on Windows 10

Windows 10 update error 0x800f081f can have various versions of the error but fortunately, this error can be easily fixed with a few simple steps by implying the same methods for all its versions. Here are 5 easy fixes for Error 0x800F081F in Windows 10:

Fix 1: Run System File Checker to repair damaged Windows files

SFC or System file checker is the tool of Windows OS that assists you in finding broken files and repairs them immediately. This tool looks for corrupted and damaged files associated with the error 0x800F081F and replaces it with a valid ones from its own cache.

To run SFC, follow these steps:

1. Search for the “Command Prompt” on the Windows search box, right-click on its icon, and select Run as administrator.
   
2. Type SFC /scannow in the command prompt window and press Enter to execute it.
3. Wait for the scan to finish. It might take a few minutes.
4. Once the scan is completed, you should be able to install updates properly.

Fix 2: Run DCIM Tool to Check Corrupt Error

The DISM or Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool is another inbuilt system repairing tool that helps you fix the Windows components. The DCIM tool can be used to check and repair the corrupted files associated with error 0x800F081F.

To run this tool, follow these steps:

1. Open the Command Prompt window with administrator privileges, as mentioned earlier.
2. Type “DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth” and press Enter to execute the command.
3. Wait for the DISM command to finish running. This might take a few minutes.
4. After the command has been executed, try installing updates again and see if it works now.

Fix 3: Reinstall & Check Microsoft .NET Framework

Sometimes Microsoft .NET Framework can cause error 0x800F081F and result in failure of update. If this is the case, reinstalling or updating the framework should do the trick.

To do so, follow these steps:

1. In the Search Section of your Task Bar, search Windows features and select Turn Windows features on or off.
   
2. Click on the check box related to .NET Framework, then click the OK button to save the change.
3. A pop-up Window will appear. Click on Let Windows Update download the files for you option.
4. This action will help you automatically download the required files and install the features.
5. Reboot your computer and run the update again.

Fix 4: Check Group Policy Editor

Group Policy Settings are a set of rules and configurations that can be used to manage Windows machines in an organization or network. Windows 10 update error 0x800f081f could also be due to incorrect group policy settings.

Note: Only Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education come with the Group Policy Editor.

To check this, you need to access the Local Group Policy Editor:

1. To open the Run dialogue, press Windows Key + R.
2. Enter the command gpedit.msc.
   
3. The Group Policy Editor window will appear once you execute the command.
4. Once the editor is open, browse to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System using the left-hand panel.
5. Scroll down on the right-hand panel to locate the entry labeled Specify settings for optional component installation and component repair (You can find it underneath the folders you see at the top of the list)
6. You can open the Settings window by double-clicking on the above entry.
7. To finish, Enable the checkbox at the top left corner and press OK.

Fix 5: Use Windows Update Troubleshooter Tool

Persistently pinpointing the root cause of a Windows update error can be an daunting task. The Windows Update Troubleshooter tool can be used to diagnose and repair any errors related to your system’s Windows Updates.

To do so, follow these steps:

1. Click on the Start button and choose Settings from the Start Menu.
2. Select Update & Security under Windows Settings.
3. Switch to the Troubleshoot tab on the left pane and select Additional troubleshooters on the right.
4. Look for the Windows Update troubleshooter and select it.
5. Click the Run the troubleshooter button.
6. Windows will now look for the problems.
7. After the troubleshooting, Windows will list the problems and possible solutions.

Conclusion

As of late, the Windows 10 Update Error 0x800f081f has been a fairly common issue for many users. Fortunately, Microsoft created many easy-to-use methods in order to reduce confusion and enable you to fix your problem with no hassle. If this is something that you’re dealing with right now, give one or more of these solutions a try – it will ultimately save you time and money in the long run!

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