Windows Defender cannot complete scanning function - Error Code: 0x800703eb

Question

Split from this thread.

Hello! I had this exact same problem. I manually set the computer to run a full scan overnight and when I return in the morning I get the error code 0x800703eb.


I installed Windows 10 sometime around August. It's up to date as of now.

Answer 1

The SFC instructions says right in the first paragraph for "Windows 8.0 and 8.1".  I have upgraded to Windows 10.  I can manually scan all the different drives on my computer one at a time and WD works.  When I manually do a Quick Scan I get this error every time.  I do not have any other virus checker and my Windows Updates are current.  I give up.

Answer 2

@DavidtheJoyner -

If you haven't already.  Can you please search for this issue in the 'Windows Feedback' app that comes preinstalled with Windows 10.  If you find it, please up-vote, else create a new one with the error in the title.

Can you share with me what AMEngine/AntispywareSignatureVersion/AntivirusSignatureVersion you have installed on this system (PowerShell -> Get-MpComputerStatus )

One last check.  Can you view your Event Viewer to see if there was ever a Windows Error Report around the time you had the scan running. 

It looks like the scan started, but something happened and it didn't complete (unless you have RTP disabled - in which case the 'PC status : At risk' is expected).

Thx,

CJ.Eichholz (MSFT) - Microsoft Antimalware

This post is provided as-is with no warranty or support.

Answer 3

@kwols:

I'm having the same error messages...

What 'same' error message? Are you confirming you're also getting 0x800703eb?

and don't find the above message helpful because...

Try:

a.- You may use download links for MSS provided in this page.

b.- See: Windows Startup Settings (including safe mode) - In Windows 10:

• Right click the Start button > select Run > type msconfig in the box > Ok.
• In the new window, click Boot at the top > under Boot option, check the box "Safe boot" > Ok.
• Restart your computer and it will go to Safe Mode.

After you are done in Safe Mode, make sure you go back to Msconfig and uncheck the Safe Boot box > then restart > to get back to normal mode.

c.- Yes, just follow the instructions provided in the KB929833... including how to view details of the System File Checker process to find the corrupted file (if any).

And see Mary's feedback above...

Answer 4

Split from this thread.

I'm having the same error messages about Defender not functioning, and don't find the above message helpful because,

a. I don't know how to 'scan using Microsoft Safety Scanner (the link produces a 'page not found' message).

b. I don't know how to 'reboot my pc in Safe Mode'.

c. I don't know how to 'run the System file checker (SFC) tool...."

I see that the KB article provides some instructions.  I will print them out and try to follow them tomorrow, when I'm not so tired of struggling.

My computer, emails, streaming appears to be working ok today, but I am worried that the little stone wall icon (for Defender) is not showing at the bottom of my screen.  How can I know whether I'm protected???

I am beginning to see why the Apple family of users are so pleased with the simplicity of their operating system and its apparent resistance to security breaches.  Since the Windows 10 upgrade (for me, just last month), I've had no end of grief, frustration and anxiety!

Please, Microsoft, can't you just run an upgrade that fixes this mess??

kw

Answer 5

@David:

Error code 0x800703eb translates to 'ERROR_CAN_NOT_COMPLETE' ... which, as in the past, not helpful at all.

• Is Windows Update (WU) Automatic Updates (AU) working ok?
• Can you manually update WD?

Suggest you run a SFC to see if it helps. Report your results.