Windows 7 - Error Code: 80000004 (Can't install updates)

Question

**Until this point, I've never had any issues with Windows Update, but over the last week or so my updates have persistently failed. At first, I had about ten or fifteen updates that all failed. All but two of the updates failed with Code 800F0826, which an internet search indicated to be a secondary code indicating that the update failed, but that another update with a different code was the source of the problem. So, I tried to run all the updates with the 800F0826 code, and it went through without a hitch.**The other two updates failed with Code 80000004, which I cannot find a single hit on, through the built-in help on Windows Update or through internet searches.  The two particular updates that are failing have done so persistently for the last several days, whether I try to install them alone or together, manually or through the automatic update settings I have established.  The two updates that are failing are as follows: Security Update for Windows 7 for x64-based Systems (KB2378111)Error details: Code 80000004Installation status: Failed

Update type: Important

A security issue has been identified that could allow an unauthenticated remote attacker to compromise your system and gain control over it. You can help protect your system by installing this update from Microsoft. After you install this update, you may have to restart your system.

More information: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=201098

and second

Update for Windows 7 for x64-based Systems (KB2345886)

Installation status: Failed

Error details: Code 80000004

Update type: Important

Install this update to help strengthen authentication credentials in specific scenarios. After you install this item, you may have to restart your computer.

More information: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=202472

The second update doesn't necessarily seem crucial, but the first seems rather important. 

Anyone that can offer assistance would be much appreciated. For what it's worth, I'm quite computer literate; I've been building and maintaining my own systems and some small servers for many years now. I'm just at a loss when I get an error like this and I can't find any documentation of the error code online.

Answer 1

Start a help ticket

<http://support.microsoft.com/common/international.aspx?rdpath=1&gprid=9860>

See the "How to obtain help" section of http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2378111

For home users, visit the Microsoft Virus Solution and Security Center for resources and tools to keep your PC safe and healthy.  If you are having issues with installing the update itself, visit Support for Microsoft Update for resources and tools to keep your PC updated with the latest updates. 

For more information about how to contact your local Microsoft subsidiary for security update support issues, visit the International Support Web site:http://support.microsoft.com/common/international.aspx

For enterprise customers, support for security updates is available through your usual support contacts.

Answer 2

Ok, I'll get the ball rolling. As a service to anyone else who has a similar issue, I'll update this threat with whatever solution(s) correct the problem.