Windows update not installing

Question

windows security update saying files are missing ...

Answer 1

Hello,

Please run Windows Update troubleshooter from Settings app > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters. See if it works.

If that doesn't work, try this:

Open administrative Command Prompt and type following commands one-by-one followed by Enter key.

net stop wuauserv

net stop cryptSvc

net stop bits

net stop msiserver

Ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old

Ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old

net start wuauserv

net start cryptSvc

net start bits

net start msiserver

Close Command Prompt and see if Windows Updates works then.

Let us know if this helps!

Answer 2

Hi, good day!

Can you take a screenshot of the issue and post it in your next response?

Note: Please don't include any personal information or sensitive data as Microsoft Q&A is a public forum.

Please include a screenshot of your Windows operating system and the version of Windows 11.

Press Windows key+R to open Run then type: winver

Press Enter

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I look forward to receiving your update and I'm willing to collaborate with you till we resolve the issue. Do keep me informed by clicking "Add comment" below.

Answer 3

If you are encountering issues with Windows updates not installing and receiving messages about missing files, it may be related to error code 0x80070003. This error typically indicates that some update files are missing or inaccessible. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue:

1. Check CBS Logs: Review the CBS logs for entries that indicate missing files. This can provide insight into what specific files are causing the issue.
2. Verify Folder Existence: Ensure that the folder C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\System Tools exists. If it is missing, copying it from a working machine may resolve the issue.
3. Perform an In-Place Upgrade: If the problem persists, consider performing an in-place upgrade of your Windows installation, which can replace missing or corrupted files.
4. Contact Microsoft Support: If none of the above steps work, you may need to reach out to Microsoft Support for further assistance, providing them with details about the missing files.

These steps should help you resolve the issue with the Windows security update not installing due to missing files.

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References:

• Error 0x80070003 at startup after you install a Windows update
• Troubleshoot Windows Update error 0x80070002