How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x800f0826

Running into Windows Update error 0x800f0826? Whether you're updating manually or letting Windows handle it, this pesky error can bring your system's update process to a halt. The good news? It’s nothing critical—just an annoying roadblock keeping you from the latest updates. Follow along as we go through some tried-and-tested troubleshooting methods to get things back on track.

Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter

One of the fastest ways to tackle this issue is by using Windows' built-in Update Troubleshooter. Here’s how:

• Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
• Navigate to System > Troubleshoot.
• Select Windows Update and click Run.
• Follow the prompts to let Windows scan for and fix any issues.

Once the tool has finished, try updating your system again.

Clear Delivery Optimization Files

If the Troubleshooter didn’t do the trick, clearing out leftover update files might help. These files can sometimes get corrupted, causing update failures.

• Open Settings and go to System > Storage.
• Click Temporary Files, then find Delivery Optimization Files.
• Check the box next to it and click Remove files.

Give the update another shot and see if it goes through.

Roll Back the Latest Windows Update

Believe it or not, sometimes the best fix is to go backward. Microsoft updates can occasionally introduce bugs that interfere with future updates. Rolling back might just do the trick. For a step-by-step guide on how to uninstall a Windows update, check out this detailed article: How to Uninstall a Windows 11 Update Once you've rolled back, restart your PC and try updating again.

Manually Download and Install the Latest Update

If uninstalling an update helped, the next step is to install the latest available version. Microsoft might have already patched the issue.

• Open Settings and go to Windows Update.
• Click Check for updates and install any available ones.

Manually Install the Update via Microsoft Update Catalog

If you're still having trouble, you can bypass Windows Update altogether and download the update manually.

• Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog
• Search for the update you need (or a newer one).
• Download and install it manually.

If you accidentally pick the wrong update, don’t worry—Windows won’t let you install an incompatible one.

Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files or a damaged Windows image can interfere with DLL functions. Running SFC and DISM can repair these issues.

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

• Run the System File Checker:

• After completion, execute the following DISM commands:

• Restart your system and check if the error is resolved.

Why Do Windows Updates Keep Failing?

Windows updates are prone to issues. And despite what Microsoft says, the truth is, no one (not even Microsoft) has an answer. The most likely culprits are minor file corruptions or unexpected compatibility issues between updates. Fortunately, rolling back and then retrying tends to smooth things out.