Failure to install KB5079473 (26200.8037) - installation error 0x80070005

Question

I have a Dell Desktop XPS 8930, 64 bits. 

I migrated from Windows 10 to Windows 11 Pro in January.

I lost WiFi during that migration, but managed to recover it with Dell's help. 

my OS is now Windows 11 Pro, 25H2, build 26200.7628. 

Early February, I got the installation error 0x80070005 when trying to install KB5077181.

I waited for the March update, KB5079473, tried to install it, yet got the same installation error code.

In both cases, PC tried to update, then issued an error message "update didn't work well - don't worry - we're unsinstalling the update", and returned to the previous version.

What should I do ?

Thanks a lot, in advance, for your help.

Philippe 

Answer 1

Hi. I'm David, and I'm happy to help you.

---

Many factors can cause this error. To avoid a long answer, I will suggest a few procedures. If these do not work, there are other methods.

---

I suggest doing the following:

Run the Windows Update troubleshooter and try to install the update.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-update-troubleshooter-19bc41ca-ad72-ae67-af3c-89ce169755dd#WindowsVersion=Windows_11

---

If it persists, rename the software distribution folders as instructed below:

1. Open Start and type cmd, right-click on "Command Prompt", and select "Run as administrator".
2. Run the following commands at the Command Prompt one at a time:

net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptsvc
ren %systemroot%\softwaredistribution softwaredistribution.bak
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 catroot2.bak
net start bits
net start wuauserv
net start cryptsvc

3. After all these commands are completed, close the Command Prompt window, restart (not shutdown) your computer, and then try to update Windows.

---

If it persists, use the system file checker to repair possible corrupted or missing system files.

1. Open Start and type cmd, right-click on "Command Prompt", and select "Run as administrator".
2. Run the following commands at the Command Prompt one at a time:

dism.exe /online /cleanup-image /scanhealth
dism.exe /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
dism.exe /online /cleanup-image /startcomponentcleanup
sfc /scannow

Note: Pay close attention to the results of the commands. This will help you determine whether the procedure was completed successfully or if there was a problem. If you get any errors, let me know the error message that was displayed.

3. Then restart (not shutdown) your PC and see if you can update.

---

If it persists, download and install the update that is having problems manually.

Download the installation package from the link below.

https://catalog.sf.dl.delivery.mp.microsoft.com/filestreamingservice/files/db81d709-c552-47ed-a3b9-ba77dfff9972/public/windows11.0-kb5079473-x64_651d0cdb7665e03bb80b4c198784b255081032d2.msu

Source: https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=KB5079473

---

If the problem persists or you receive an error during any of the procedures, please let me know.

---

Feel free to ask any questions you may have.

Answer 2

Error 0x80070005 during Windows Update usually indicates an access/permissions problem or interference from software or devices. For Windows 11 upgrade/update failures, the recommended path is:

1. Remove external and nonessential hardware
   • Unplug all nonessential USB and external devices (printers, external drives, docks, etc.).
   • If the PC uses a docking station, undock it.
2. Update Windows and drivers first
   • In Settings > Windows Update, install any other pending updates first.
   • Ensure device drivers (especially network, storage, and chipset) are up to date using Dell’s tools or Windows Update.
3. Temporarily remove non-Microsoft antivirus and nonessential software
   • Uninstall any third‑party antivirus or antispyware. Windows Defender will protect the system during the update.
   • Uninstall old or nonessential applications that might interfere with setup.
   • Use Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features, select the program, then Uninstall and confirm.
4. Check disk space and rerun Windows Update
   • Ensure there is sufficient free space on the system drive (at least 20 GB for 64‑bit).
   • Then go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates and retry installing KB5079473.
5. If updates still fail, perform an in‑place repair/reinstall of the current Windows 11 version
   • When repeated updates fail and standard tools (like SFC/DISM) are not resolving it, an in‑place reinstall of the current Windows 11 version is a supported way to repair the component store and update stack while keeping files and apps.
   • Follow the guidance in Fix issues by reinstalling the current version of Windows to perform a repair install that keeps personal files, apps, and settings.
   • After the repair completes, run Windows Update again and install KB5079473.

If the issue persists even after an in‑place repair, collect the exact error messages and logs and contact support, as deeper component store corruption or a driver issue may require hands‑on investigation.

---

References:

• Get help with Windows upgrade and installation errors
• Troubleshoot problems updating Windows
• March 10, 2026—KB5079473 (OS Builds 26200.8037 and 26100.8037)
• KB5079473 fail with 0x80073712 while inplace upgrade fail with 0x8007042B - Microsoft Q&A
• Mijn windows updates gaan mis - Microsoft Q&A