Windows Update error 0x80070005

Where this problem appears

Windows 10 and Windows 11 computers receiving error 0x80070005 during update or feature installation.

Symptoms to confirm

• Windows Update downloads a package but fails during installation.
• The history page records error 0x80070005.
• The problem began after security software, account or service changes.

Likely causes

• Update services cannot access required folders or components.
• Security software or policy is blocking an update task.
• Windows component files are damaged.
• The active account or system service permissions are inconsistent.

Work in order

Step-by-step fix

1. 1

   Restart Windows and retry the update from an administrator account.

2. 2

   Confirm that the system date, time and free disk space are reasonable.

3. 3

   Run the built-in Windows Update troubleshooter and apply only the changes it recommends.

4. 4

   Open an elevated Terminal and run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.

5. 5

   After DISM completes, run sfc /scannow and restart the computer.

6. 6

   Temporarily pause third-party antivirus only if its vendor recommends this test, then re-enable it immediately.

7. 7

   If the same update still fails, note its KB number and use Microsoft's update history guidance for that package.

If the main path does not work

• Install the matching package from the official Microsoft Update Catalog when Microsoft documents that method.
• Use an in-place repair install after backing up important data if multiple Windows components are failing.

How to reduce repeat failures

Maintain free disk space, avoid permission-tweaking utilities and create backups before feature updates.

Common questions