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How to Fix Windows 8.1 Update Issues

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With any new software update on any device, there are going to be small hiccups, little issues that cause users to not be able to download the update even though they should be able to. Windows 8.1, the free update for tablets, desktops and notebooks running Microsoft’s Windows 8 operating system isn’t any different.

Since its release users have reported random issues with not being able to download the update. Here’s what to do when Windows tells you your Windows 8.1 install couldn’t be completed.

Before proceeding, it’s a good idea to simply close the Windows Store app by clicking or tapping on its top and dragging it to the bottom of our screen. Then trying the update again. This could fix your issue and save you from having to proceed with the rest of this process. If that still hasn’t helped then continue.

The first thing you want to do if you see the error above on your screen is to restart your Windows 8 devices and try again. Remember to save any work you’ve been doing in the background before you restart first. After you’ve restarted, don’t open the Windows Store app.

If you’re still having trouble downloading the update. You’re going to need to open the Windows 8 Command Prompt. Go to the Start Screen by pressing the Windows key on your keyboard or by pressing the Windows button underneath your device’s display.

How to Fix Windows 8.1 Update Issues (1)

Right-click anywhere on the Start Screen and click on the All Apps button.

Now, find the Command Prompt option in the list of installed apps. Don’t left-click on it. Instead, right-click on it and select Run As Administrator from the menu on the bottom. Tablet users should place their finger on Command Prompt and then pull down on the app slightly to see the app menu.

How to Fix Windows 8.1 Update Issues (2)

In the menu type ‘net stop wuauserv’ then hit enter on your keyboard.

How to Fix Windows 8.1 Update Issues (3)

Now type ‘net stop bits’ then hit enter on your keyboard again.

How to Fix Windows 8.1 Update Issues (4)

Now open a file window by going back to the Desktop. Go the following location by manually typing it into the address bar or by copy and pasting it into the address bar in a file window: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution. Delete everything inside that folder.

How to Fix Windows 8.1 Update Issues (5)

Now go back to the Command Prompt and type in ‘net start wuauserv’ then hit enter.

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Next type ‘net start bits’ then hit enter.

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Now head to the Windows Store and attempt to download Windows 8.1 again.

Read: Microsoft Details Windows 8.1 Features

By now, you should be able to download the Windows 8.1 without any issues. Remember to make sure you’re on a stable internet connection and that your Windows 8 device is plugged in.

7 Comments

7 Comments

  1. Ria Streicher

    03/24/2014 at 1:16 am

    I am a teacher at a secondary school in Polokwane. I downloaded win8.1 an have problems now with my printer. I can’t print anything!

  2. ffinder

    03/24/2014 at 6:55 am

    @ Ria Streicher Just update your printer’s driver..

  3. Luke

    03/25/2014 at 1:57 am

    I have just done the update, now i have a black screen. Running it onan hp pavillion laptop. :(

  4. wes

    03/25/2014 at 4:59 pm

    After ive downloaded win8.1 do I restore the files I deleted out of the software distribution folder or can I go ahead and delete them completely out of my recycle bin?

  5. Jam Sianmung

    03/26/2014 at 3:01 am

    it is not supported in my computer. what shall i do?

  6. Frank

    03/26/2014 at 2:17 pm

    Unfortunately, this process did not work for me. I still get the same error I have received for 5 months now after trying everything that has been written about this problem on the internet. I get an error code # 0x*0004005

  7. Gary Druce

    04/12/2014 at 12:50 am

    When is Microsoft going to get there act together windows 8 has been a dud ever since it’s launch and it not getting any better now you can’t even install the much heralded 8.1.1 update that will actually make this awful OS actually usable errors-80070020-80073712-800f081f-80242fff-800f0922 are piling up with absolutely no help from Microsoft to resolve the issue just more excuses. Come on Microsoft get it sort its not that you haven’t been at it long enough.

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