Solved: Troubleshooting Steps for Windows Update Error Code 0x80040033

Error Code 0x80040033 Summary

The error code 0x80040033 is commonly encountered when dealing with issues related to Windows Update or Microsoft’s Windows Installer. This error can indicate problems such as corrupted system files, conflicts with third-party software, or issues within the Windows Update component itself. It often arises during attempts to install, repair, or update applications and system components using Windows Installer. Resolving this issue typically involves several troubleshooting steps that address these underlying causes, including repairing the Windows Installer, resetting Windows Update settings, and ensuring system integrity through scanning with tools like System File Checker (SFC).

Description of Error Code 0x80040033 and Common Scenarios Where It Appears

This error can occur in various scenarios within a Windows environment. It frequently appears during attempts to install or repair applications using Microsoft’s Windows Installer technology. It is also common when applying updates from Windows Update or attempting manual installation of specific update packages that are managed by the system installer. Additionally, 0x80040033 can appear due to conflicts with third-party software that interferes with normal installation processes or corrupts necessary files used by the Windows Installer service. Users may encounter this error when trying to install updates for applications such as Microsoft Office Suite or other software packages that rely on Windows Installer for deployment. The occurrence of 0x80040033 can also indicate a deeper issue with system stability, potentially pointing towards corruption in critical files required by the operating system itself.

Howto solve error code 0x80040033

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and execute sfc /scannow. This command scans all protected system files for integrity and repairs any problems found.
  2. If the above step does not resolve the issue, proceed to repair or reset Windows Update settings by running PowerShell with administrative privileges. Execute net stop wuauserv, followed by net stop bits. Then rename these folders: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution and C:\Windows\System32\catroot2.
  3. After renaming the folders, restart both services with net start wuauserv and net start bits. Reboot your computer to ensure all changes take effect.
  4. To further ensure system integrity, use DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tool. Open Command Prompt as Administrator again and run the following commands:
    dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
    dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  5. Finally, repair the Windows Installer through Control Panel by accessing Programs > Programs and Features > Turn Windows features on or off. Uncheck “Windows Installer”, click OK to confirm changes. Once installation completes, re-enable this feature to reinstall it.

Similar questions

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