Share this article

This article is translated in

Improve this guide

Windows 7 Update Error 80072efe [Solved]

This error code can be solved with ease using our guide

6 min. read

Updated onApril 1, 2024

updated onApril 1, 2024

Share this article

This article is translated in

Improve this guide

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more

Key notes

The 80072EFE error can arise in Windows 7 and 10 when some users try to update those platforms.

The Windows 7 update error 80072efe issue saysWindows could not search for new updates. Consequently, Windows doesn’t update when that error occurs.

What causes the code 80072EFE error in Windows 7?

According to the users, this issue might appear after a clean install of Windows 7 because the support has ended in January 2020.

On the other hand, the error can be caused by your internet connection problems so you better check this factor as well.

TheWindows could not search for new updates errormessage can be also found in the following versions:

What does the Windows Error Code 80072efe mean?

Microsoft Windows 7 update error 80072efe means that there is a connection interruption when downloading the Windows Update.

When your PC fails to connect with the Windows servers, you will not be able to download the update and get the Windows 7 update error 80072efe.

Apart from failed communication with the servers, there are a few other common reasons that could trigger this error code.

How do I fix the Windows 7 update error 80072efe?

1. Run a malware scan

The first step is to determine if the issue is caused by viruses, intrusive apps, or other malicious attacks. We recommend you run a full PC scan with an antivirus with a high detection rate, such asESET Antivirus.

ESET Antivirus has a strong firewall and network inspector to ensure you always have a safe connection. It uses multi-layered protection which means it has multiple ways of detecting all sorts of threats.

To run a scan, you just have to open the main window, click on the Computer scan button in the sidebar, then select Scan your computer. Wait for the process to complete and let the antivirus remove all threats found.

Restart your PC and see if the issue is solved.

Othernotable featuresof ESET Antivirus include:

This is a subscription-based antivirus, but you can use the 30-day free trial to try it out first.

On top of that, if you need a full PC scan as soon as possible, you should know that offers a free, one-time full PC scan.

ESET Antivirus

2. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

After the troubleshooter is finished, check if theWindows could not search for new updates 80072efderror is still there.

If you want to go through a dull in-depth scan of your PC, we recommend using a third-party tool specialized in Windows repair and troubleshooting.

3. Run the Network Adapter troubleshooter

The Network Adapter troubleshooter might also help some users resolve the 80072efe Windows 7 update error.

4. Delete the catroot2 folder for Windows Update

5. Clear the SoftwareDistribution folder

After doing that, Windows Update services will be restarted and theWindows could not search for new updates 80072efemessage should be gone.

6. Manually install the KB3138612 update (Windows 7 fix)

This is a quick and easy workaround, but it should help you fix the Windows 7 update error 80072efe with ease.

7. Disable third-party firewall and antivirus software

It’s also recommended to disable any third-party firewalls installed before trying to update Windows.

Zone Alarm, McAfee, AVG, and Panda firewalls are known to generate issues for Windows updates. So, have a look through the settings for any installed firewall to disable it.

How do I fix Windows 7 not updating?

Users have confirmed some of the above fixes can resolve theWindows 7 Update error 80072efe.

If you have fixed the same issue with different solutions you’re welcome to share them in the comments below.

Windows 7 Update Error 80072efe [Solved]#

What causes the code 80072EFE error in Windows 7?#

What does the Windows Error Code 80072efe mean?#

How do I fix the Windows 7 update error 80072efe?#

1. Run a malware scan#

ESET Antivirus#

2. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter#

3. Run the Network Adapter troubleshooter#

4. Delete the catroot2 folder for Windows Update#

5. Clear the SoftwareDistribution folder#

6. Manually install the KB3138612 update (Windows 7 fix)#

7. Disable third-party firewall and antivirus software#

How do I fix Windows 7 not updating?#