How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80d02004
If you're trying to update Windows 11 either automatically through Windows Update or manually, there's a chance that you will keep getting error code 0x80d02004. While this error isn’t considered severe, it effectively blocks you from installing new system updates. This guide will walk you through several effective solutions to get your system back on track and up to date.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80d02004
One of the simplest and most reliable ways to deal with error 0x80d02004 is by running the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter. This tool automatically scans for and repairs common update-related issues.
- Press Windows Key + I to open the Settings app.
- Navigate to the System tab and click Troubleshoot.
- Select Other troubleshooters, then find Windows Update.
- Click Run, and let the tool detect and resolve problems.
Once the tool finishes, restart your system and try updating again. If the update still fails, continue with the next steps.
Clear Delivery Optimisation Files
Windows caches parts of updates to help speed up the update process, but sometimes these files get corrupted. Clearing the Delivery Optimisation Files can help.
- Open Settings > System > Storage > Temporary Files.
- Look for Delivery Optimisation Files and check the box.
- Click Remove files to delete them.
After clearing these files, restart your system and try the update again.
Uninstall Recent Windows Updates
Sometimes, new updates introduce compatibility problems or bugs that cause later updates to fail. In these cases, rolling back the most recent update may fix the problem.
To uninstall an update:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update history.
- Scroll down and click Uninstall updates.
- Choose the most recent update and click Uninstall.
For a full walkthrough, refer to the guide linked below:
How to Uninstall a Windows 11 Update
Reinstall the Latest Windows 11 Update
Once you've removed the problematic update, reinstalling the most recent version may resolve the issue and bring stability back to the update process.
- Go to Settings > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any updates available.
This process often includes patches that fix bugs from earlier builds, including ones that might have caused the 0x80d02004 error.
Use the Microsoft Update Catalogue
If automatic updates and the troubleshooter both let you down, you can manually download and install the necessary update from the Microsoft Update Catalogue.
- Visit the Microsoft Update Catalogue
- Enter the KB number of the update you're having trouble with, or search for the latest cumulative update
- Download the correct version for your system (x64, ARM64, etc.).
- Open the downloaded file and follow the prompts to install it.
Windows will prevent incompatible updates from installing, so there's no risk of accidentally installing the wrong one.
Why Does This Happen?
Update issues like error 0x80d02004 are more common than you'd think, especially on Windows 11. While Microsoft doesn’t always offer clear explanations, most failures stem from file corruption, background update conflicts, or compatibility problems introduced by previous updates. Ironically, the updates meant to fix things can sometimes be the very reason future updates fail.
Thankfully, rolling back or manually reinstalling updates usually solves the problem at least until the next update rolls out.