Windows Update Error Code 0x800700C1 can appear when Windows encounters a problem while downloading or installing an update. The issue may be related to corrupted system files, Windows Update components, security software, malware, or temporary files.
In some cases, the update services may also fail to start correctly, and a damaged update cache can make the problem worse. This guide explains how to fix it in Windows 10 and 11.
What Causes Windows Update Error Code 0x800700C1?
Common causes include corrupted or missing Windows system files, damaged Windows Update components, problems with Windows Update services, third-party antivirus or security software interference, malware or other unwanted software, corrupted temporary update files, or network connection problems. Start with the simpler solutions below before moving to more advanced repairs.
Here’s how to fix Error Code 0x800700C1:
Temporarily disable third-party security software
For Windows Security: Settings → Privacy & security → Windows Security → Virus & threat protection → Manage settings, and temporarily turn off Real-time protection. For third-party antivirus, disable its real-time protection and, if needed, its firewall feature too. Check Windows Update again, then turn protection back on — don’t leave it disabled unnecessarily.
Check your internet connection
Restart your router if the connection is unstable. Disconnect and reconnect to the internet, restart your computer, and verify websites load normally before trying Windows Update again. For connection or update-service problems specifically, see our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x8024402C.
Run System File Checker
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run sfc /scannow. Wait until the scan reaches 100% and restart your computer. If SFC can’t repair some files, continue with DISM.
Run DISM to repair Windows components
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. This can take several minutes. Restart your computer once it completes. For additional troubleshooting involving corrupted components and update failures, see our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x800F0900.
Clear temporary files
Press Win + R, type cleanmgr, press Enter, select your system drive (usually C:), select the temporary files to remove, click OK, and select Delete Files when prompted. Restart your computer after the cleanup finishes.
Reset Windows Update components
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptsvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.bak
ren %systemroot%\System32\catroot2 catroot2.bak
net start wuauserv
net start cryptsvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
Restart your computer, then open Windows Update and select “Check for updates.”
Scan for malware
Open Windows Security → Virus & threat protection → Scan options → Full scan → Scan now. If a threat is detected, follow the recommended removal steps and restart your computer.
Check available storage
Go to Settings → System → Storage, and remove unnecessary files if your system drive is nearly full. If low disk space is contributing to the problem, see our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x80070070.
Check Windows Update services
Press Win + R, type services.msc, press Enter, and look for “Windows Update.” Make sure it’s not disabled, and right-click it to select Start if stopped. Also check Background Intelligent Transfer Service, Cryptographic Services, and Windows Installer. Restart your computer after making changes.
Check Windows Update again
Windows 11: Settings → Windows Update.
Windows 10: Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
Select “Check for updates” and let Windows download and install what’s available.
Should You Reset Windows?
A Windows reset should be considered only after the other troubleshooting methods have failed — back up important documents, photos, and other personal files first. A reset can remove applications and change system settings, so use it only as a last resort. Our experts are here to assist you — Chat with a specialist — for more technical support.
We are an independent technical support provider and are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Microsoft.
FAQ
What is Windows Update Error Code 0x800700C1?
It’s an update-related error that can appear when Windows encounters a problem during the update process.
Can SFC fix error 0x800700C1?
SFC can repair corrupted protected system files. If it can’t resolve the problem, running DISM can repair the Windows component store.
Can antivirus software interfere with Windows Update?
Yes. Some third-party security programs can interfere with update operations — temporarily disabling protection helps determine whether it’s the cause.
Should I reset Windows to fix error 0x800700C1?
No. A Windows reset should be a last resort — try repairing system files, resetting Windows Update components, checking security software, and clearing temporary files first.
Tags: 0x800700c1., Code 0x800700c1., Error Code 0x800700c1., KB9199235, Windows Update Error Code 0x800700c1.
