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Windows Update Error 0x800f0986: 5 Ways To Fix It

Corrupt files are a likely culprit for encountering this issue

6 min. read

Updated onMarch 27, 2024

updated onMarch 27, 2024

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Key notes

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Microsoft put a huge emphasis on improving their operating system with regular content patches. On the second Tuesday of each month, the company releases updates that include fixes and sometimes new additions.

Usually, Windows will automatically search and upgrade itself once a patch is officially released. However, the process doesn’t always go as planned, which usually results in failure or other problems.

The 0x800f0986 Windows Update error is just an example. This issue arises when you try to download cumulative patch updates via Settings in Windows 10 1909.

Instead of downloading the updates, you get anUpdates failederror message with the 0x800f0986 code. Consequently, you can’t download various patch updates for Windows 10.

How do I fix the Windows Update error 0x800f0986 ?

1. Check if the Windows Update service is enabled

2. Use the Windows Update troubleshooter

The real cause of the error might also be related to some corrupted system files. If that is the case, you need to replace them.

Even if Windows Troubleshooter is great at solving problems, it’s not the best tool out there, so you might need to repair them using other ways.

We recommend usingprofessional automatic registry cleanerssince they are designed to fix Windows errors and keep your OS in optimal condition, reducing the risk of getting error codes when you perform an update.

Certain issues can affect your PC’s security as well, so an all-in-one program with protection-oriented features is ideal.

3. Clear out the SoftwareDistribution folder

4. Reset Windows Update

5. Reset Windows 10

Why should I update my Windows?

Microsoft is constantly working to improve its operating system with new features and tools. You can only get these additions by updating the OS.

Additionally, the company releases frequent security updates that patch breaches or weak spots in the system to prevent cyberattacks from compromising the device or stealing your data.

If you don’t update Windows for a long time, the system will slowly become insecure.

How to check if there is an update available?

Usually, Windows will notify you if there is an update that needs to be installed, but there is a way to manually check that as well.

Knowing how important it really is to update your PC, it’s time to apply some quick solutions and get rid of theUpdates failederror message right away.

The Microsoft Update Catalog

Microsoft created a web-based service called theWindows Update Catalog, containing a list of drivers and updates for Windows or other software related to the OS and Microsoft itself.

They should be distributed over corporate networks, but can also be used by home users. You can search the title of the update and its description. When doing so for hardware updates, type in the model, manufacturer, and other details.

You can find important, recommended, and optional updates on the website:

With the Microsoft Update Catalog, you won’t have to rely on the operating system to update automatically.

What are the benefits of resetting the OS?

Resetting the operating system is really useful when you don’t know the exact cause of a problem. Since you have the option to keep the files in storage, there’s no risk of losing precious data or progress.

The only downside is the fact that you will need to configure the general settings. There is also the option to completely delete all the settings, apps, and stored files on the device and install a fresh copy of the system.

Are feature updates worth it?

Microsoft decided to focus on constantly improving Windows 10. Twice a year, they release massive content updates that add new features and overhaul existing ones.

Since there is so much emphasis on them, the Redmond company is pouring all of its resources into developing new tools.

Most of the time, the updates will include quality-of-life changes that were asked by the community, so it’s worth installing them right away.

Don’t worry about possible issues. All builds are going through testing before they are officially released, in order to fix any bugs.

Hopefully, by following these steps, you managed to get rid of the Windows Update error 0x800f0986. If you have problems with theupdating processbut you are using a newly installed operating system, there aremany ways to solve them.

Moreover, if theerror 0xc1900204 blocks Windows 10 updates, try running the Windows Update troubleshooter, and keep in mind that we’ve also prepared a detailed guide to help you in this regard.

Which one of the solutions written above worked best for you in solving the 0x800f0986 Windows Update error? Feel free to ask anything or talk about the subject in the comments section below. We’re eager to hear you out.

Windows Update Error 0x800f0986: 5 Ways To Fix It#

How do I fix the Windows Update error 0x800f0986 ?#

1. Check if the Windows Update service is enabled#

2. Use the Windows Update troubleshooter#

3. Clear out the SoftwareDistribution folder#

4. Reset Windows Update#

5. Reset Windows 10#

Why should I update my Windows?#

How to check if there is an update available?#

The Microsoft Update Catalog#

What are the benefits of resetting the OS?#

Are feature updates worth it?#