Can not clear this error Download error - 0x80240437

Question

Keep Getting Download error - 0x80240437 after running troubleshooter

Answer 1

Hi,

Error code 0x80240437 indicates that the update problem is likely due to corrupted Windows Update components.

1. In the search bar, type Winver and hit Enter.

Please share a screenshot of that window.

2. Could you list the troubleshooting steps you've tried to avoid repeating them?

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Answer 2

Error 0x80240437 is a Windows Update download error. Since the Windows Update troubleshooter has already been run and the error persists, use the following steps that directly target common download and service issues.

1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter again from the correct place (Windows 11)
   • Select Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
   • Under Most frequent, select Windows Update > Run.
   • When it finishes, restart the PC.
   • After restart, go to Start > Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates and try again.
2. Clear the Windows Update cache This fixes many download-related errors caused by corrupted update files.
   1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
   2. Find Windows Update, right‑click it, and select Stop.
   3. Open File Explorer and go to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution.
   4. Delete all files and folders inside SoftwareDistribution.
   5. Go back to services.msc, right‑click Windows Update, and select Start.
   6. Check for updates again from Settings > Windows Update.
3. Check network and security software Download errors often occur if the connection or security software interferes with Windows Update.
   • Verify the internet connection is stable: Settings > Network & Internet > Wi‑Fi (or Ethernet) and confirm it is connected.
   • Temporarily disable any third‑party antivirus or firewall and then try Check for updates again.
   • If using a VPN or corporate proxy, temporarily disconnect from the VPN or switch to a direct home network and retry.
4. Verify Windows Update services and TLS/network configuration (advanced) If updates still fail to download, check that the system can reach Microsoft update services and that TLS 1.2 is enabled.
   • Ensure ports 80 and 443 are open on any firewall or network device between the PC and the internet.
   • In an elevated Command Prompt, verify TLS 1.2 is enabled:

          reg query "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\SecurityProviders\SCHANNEL\Protocols\TLS 1.2\Server"
     

     The values should be:
     • Enabled REG_DWORD 0x1
     • DisabledByDefault REG_DWORD 0x0 If TLS 1.2 is disabled, enable it as per the documented settings, then retry Windows Update.
5. Restart after updates apply If some updates install but Windows still reports issues, restart to complete installation:
   • Select Start > Power > Update and restart (or Update and shut down) if available.

If the error continues after these steps, collect the exact update KB number(s) failing and any additional error codes shown in Settings > Windows Update > Update history, then use the guidance in Troubleshoot problems updating Windows for the specific error code listed there.

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References:

• Windows Update Troubleshooter
• Troubleshoot problems updating Windows
• Troubleshoot Windows Update download errors