Defender does not update

Question

I'm trying to update the virus definitions on my Win10, 64-bit machine but it keeps failing;

"Virus and spyware definitions couldn't be updated."

Error Code: 0x80004004

Error description: The definition updates couldn't be installed. Please try again later.

From Windows Defender settings;

Antimalware client version: 4.8.10240.16384

Engine version: 1.1.12805.0

Antivirus definition: 1.223.2489.0

Antispyware definition: 1.223.2489.0

Network inspection system engine version: 2.1.12706.0

Network inspection system definition version: 116.10.0.0

I tried to manually install the updates using mpam-fe application

from https://www.microsoft.com/security/portal/definitions/adl.aspx

Let me know if you would like anymore info

Answer 1

Answer-by-number:

1. Did the computer come with Win10 preinstalled or did you upgrade a Win7 computer or a Win8.1 computer [<=PICK ONE!] to Win10?
2. Has a Norton application or a McAfee application EVER been installed on the computer since you bought it?
3. Did a Norton free-trial or a McAfee free-trial [<=PICK ONE!] come preinstalled on the computer when you bought it? (Doesn't matter if you never used or Activated it.)
4. Have you ever run the Norton Removal Tool and/or the McAfee Consumer Products Removal Tool?
5. Is KB3163018 or KB3163017 [<=PICK ONE!] listed in Installed Updates*(not Update History*)? [1]
6. How about KB3149135, KB3163019, KB3159635, KB3125217, and/or KB3147460?
7. Is Adobe Flash Player v22.0.0.192 installed? TEST HERE USING INTERNET EXPLORER OR EDGE ONLY! => http://www.adobe.com/software/flash/about/

Answer 2

It was a little new, I guess. I do remember not having any issues with updating before.

But I've tried doing this update for a month or so and no luck

Answer 3

Who are you and what have you done with ArshiaSasson?

Answer 4

Recent within the past two days or so.

Answer 5

Was this a sudden, new problem or...?