How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x800f020b

Do you keep seeing Windows Update error 0x800f020b when attempting to download and install new updates? If so, you may just need a little help fixing your Windows Update workflow.

In this blog post, we’ll explain what Windows Update error 0x800f020b is, as well as how to fix it quickly and painlessly so that you can get back to your regular routine.

What Is Windows Update Error 0x800f020b?

Windows update error 0x800f020b is a Microsoft error code that occurs when trying to install new Windows Updates. Seemingly this specific error is known to appear when users attempt to update their Xerox or HP-branded printers. In some cases, a corrupt file or an ill-fitted update package may also cause this issue to appear.

Note: This is not an issue unique to Xerox or HP users; users of other printer brands have also reported Windows Update Error 0x800f020b.

Try These Fixes to Resolve Windows Update Error 0x800f020b

There are 8 ways you can go about resolving the Windows Update error 0x800f020b. You don’t have to try every single one of them; just go down the list and see what works best for you. So let’s learn how to master the dreaded “0x800f020b”!

Fix 1: Restarting Your Computer

Before you try any of the technical fixes, you should always begin by restarting your machine. Sometimes simply rebooting your PC can do the trick and get rid of the Windows Update error 0x800f020b, as there may have been an issue with your computer that the restart can resolve.

Fix 2: Check for the Windows Driver

It is crucial that you ensure your drivers are compatible with the current system, as any distinctions could lead to errors.

To check your Windows driver, follow the steps below:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Windows Update.
3. Click on Advanced options.
4. Then click the Other updates button.
5. Click on the View optional updates option.
6. Click the Driver Updates section header. Then browse the list and place check marks beside any driver you want to update.
7. Click the Download and install button to install the updated driver using Windows Update.

Fix 3: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update troubleshooter examines your computer’s settings and registries, compares them with the requirements of Windows Update, and offers potential solutions to address the issue. It’s important to note that you must have an administrator account to run the troubleshooter.

Here is how to utilize the Windows Update troubleshooter:

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 fix it.
5. Next, click the Run the troubleshooter button.
6. Windows will now look for the problems.
7. After troubleshooting, Windows will list the problems and possible solutions.

Fix 4: Deleting Software Distribution

The SoftwareDistribution folder, located in the Windows directory, temporarily stores files necessary for installing the latest Windows updates on your computer. This folder is managed by the WUagent, which handles read and write operations.

Note: This method will also clear your update history.

1. Launch the Command Prompt with the administrative rights.
2. On the command line window, use the net stop wuauserv command to stop the Windows Update service and the net stop bits command to stop Background Intelligent Transfer Service.
3. Now launch the File Explorer and navigate to the following address: “C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution“
4. Delete the contents(files and folders) of the SoftwareDistribution folder.
5. Now again, launch the Command Prompt window and use the net start wuauserv command to start the Windows Update service and the net start bits command to start Background Intelligent Transfer Service.

Fix 5: Clear DNS Cache Files

The DNS cache stores the IP addresses of websites you have visited so that they can be loaded more quickly. To ensure your troubleshooting process runs smoothly, it is recommended that you clear the cache files beforehand.

To clear DNS cache files, follow the steps below:

1. Launch CMD with administrator privileges on your computer and type “ipconfig /flushDNS.“
2. Wait for the process to finish.

Fix 6: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter Tool

Since Windows Update error 0x800f020b is a Microsoft-based error, launching the inbuilt Windows Update troubleshooter tool can help you resolve it.

To run the Windows Update troubleshooter tool, follow the steps below:

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 is completed, Windows will list the problems and possible solutions.

Fix 7: Run DISM Command in Command Prompt

If the above fixes haven’t resolved Windows Update error 0x800f020b, it is likely that your system files may be corrupted, which can be resolved by running the DISM command in the command prompt.

To run the DISM command, follow the steps below:

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 executing the command, try installing updates again and see if it works now.

Fix 8: Perform the System Restore

If all else fails, you can always resort to performing a system restore, as this will restore your computer back to an earlier point in time when the error wasn’t present.

To perform a system restore, follow the steps below:

1. Launch the Run dialog box by pressing Win + R keys together.
2. Type rstrui in the Run dialog box and hit Enter.
3. This will launch the System Restore wizard. Click Next to proceed.
4. Now select a restore point from the list of available points created either automatically or manually by you and click Next to continue.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish up the system restore process.

Note: If you have tried all of the above fixes and the Windows Update error 0x800f020b still persists, it is likely that you have a hardware issue. It is best to consult with a local IT provider for assistance.

Conclusion

Windows Update Error 0x800f020b is a Microsoft error code that occurs when attempting to install new Windows Updates. It can affect users of all printer brands and can be tricky to resolve. In this blog post, we have discussed the causes and Six potential fixes for Windows Update error 0x800f020b. If none of these methods work, it is best to consult with a local IT provider for assistance.

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