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Windows Update Error 0x80073701 [Solved]

Getting error 80073701 while updating your PC? Apply these fixes

6 min. read

Updated onMarch 22, 2024

updated onMarch 22, 2024

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The Windows update error 080073701 occurs in Windows 10 and earlier platforms. That error blocks Microsoft’s cumulative updates and has been reported by multiple users.

Thus, you can’t update Windows when the issue arises. In addition, there is no specific official resolution for error 0x80073701, even though Microsoft has acknowledged the error code.

Speaking of that, users also reported similar issues involving the same code. So, let’s take a closer look to know precisely what you’re up against.

What does error 80073701 mean?

Error 0x80073701 or simply error 80073701 occurs when the system fails to perform the update process. Though it doesn’t cause any severe problems, you won’t be able to install the latest updates on your PC if this issue exists.

After some research, we have prepared a list of the most common reasons you would face the error 80073701 on your Windows 10 PC:

Where else can this error occur, and what to expect?

How do I fix the Windows Update error 0x80073701?

1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

The Windows Update troubleshooter is a built-in system tool for fixing Windows update bugs. So that might come in handy for fixing error 0x80073701.

It was reported that upon running this tool, it managed to fix some bugs but ended in displaying another error:Therequested service has already been started. More help is available by typing NET HELPMSG 2182.

We’ve covered this issue in our guide onhow to fix the NET HELPMSG 2182. Some of the solutions presented there also apply to the 80073701 stop code.

2. Perform a clean boot

After this procedure, try updating Windows and see if the problem has been resolved.

3. Use the Windows 10 Update Assistant

4. Use specialized repair tools

Error 80073701 can prevent you from installing cumulative updates and upgrading your OS to a newer version. The most common reason behind this is missing or broken update files.

Fortunately,specialized toolscan address file corruption and repair Windows update errors and numerous other severe system errors instantly.

Using such a program is far more accurate and time-effective than manual troubleshooting.

5. Run Deployment Image Servicing and System File scans

The Windows Update error 0x80073701 might be due tocorrupted system files. We recommend using the Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool to repair them.

The System File Checker also repairs corrupted system files, which will be beneficial to run.

6. Restart the Windows Update service

7. Reset the Windows Update components

Resetting Windows Update components will restore them to their default values. So this resolution is undoubtedly worth a shot.

8. Check the Date and Time Settings

Error 0x80073701 can also be due to date and time settings in Windows 10. So, ensure Windows 10’s date and time are set correctly.

Some of those resolutions might fix error 0x80073701. Also, you can check out our guide on how tofix Windows update errorsfor additional fixes.

If this guide was helpful, drop us a line about your experience with the steps you used to get your device back on track.

Windows Update Error 0x80073701 [Solved]#

What does error 80073701 mean?#

How do I fix the Windows Update error 0x80073701?#

1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter#

2. Perform a clean boot#

3. Use the Windows 10 Update Assistant#

4. Use specialized repair tools#

5. Run Deployment Image Servicing and System File scans#

6. Restart the Windows Update service#

7. Reset the Windows Update components#

8. Check the Date and Time Settings#