Windows Update Error 0x80070005 Fix

Fixing Windows Update Error 0x80070005: Access Denied

Encountering Windows Update Error 0x80070005, often called "Access Denied," can be frustrating. This error typically arises when your Windows account lacks the necessary permissions to download and install updates. Fortunately, several solutions can resolve this issue. This article provides a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and fix error 0x80070005.

Method 1: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to automatically diagnose and fix common update problems. Running this tool is a great first step:

1. Go to Settings (Windows key + I).
2. Click on Update & Security.
3. Select Troubleshoot from the left-hand menu.
4. Choose Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooter may take 10-15 minutes to complete.

After the troubleshooter finishes, restart your computer and try running Windows Update again.

Advanced Solutions for Error 0x80070005

Method 2: Reset Windows Update Components

Corrupted or damaged Windows Update components can also trigger the 0x80070005 error. Resetting these components can often resolve the problem. This involves stopping related services, renaming specific folders, and restarting the services.

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator. (Search for "cmd", right-click, and select "Run as administrator").
2. Enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
   • net stop wuauserv
   • net stop cryptSvc
   • net stop bits
   • net stop msiserver
   • ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
   • ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
   • net start wuauserv
   • net start cryptSvc
   • net start bits
   • net start msiserver
3. Close Command Prompt and restart your computer.

This process stops the necessary services, renames the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders (where update files are stored), and then restarts the services. Renaming the folders forces Windows Update to create new, clean versions of these folders. The process takes approximately 5 minutes.

Method 3: Check Permissions on Windows Update Folder

In rare cases, incorrect permissions on the Windows Update folder can cause this error. Ensure your user account has full control over the SoftwareDistribution folder, located at C:\Windows.