Error Code 0x80040124 Summary
Error 0x80040124 typically occurs when there is an issue with the Windows Update service, often related to corrupted system files or incorrect permissions within the update folder. This error can prevent updates from being installed and may affect various aspects of Windows functionality such as accessing Windows Update settings or deploying security patches.
This error code usually indicates a problem with the Software Licensing Service (SLsvc) on your computer. When you encounter 0x80040124, it’s often because there are issues with the licensing database or corrupt files that prevent SLsvc from functioning correctly.
To resolve this issue, follow these detailed steps:
1. Restart your computer and press F8 during startup to access Safe Mode with Networking.
2. Once in Safe Mode, open Command Prompt as Administrator and run the following command: sfc /scannow
3. If SFC does not fix the issue, proceed by opening Command Prompt again and running: dism.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
4. Reboot your computer in normal mode after these commands have completed.
5. Check if Windows Update settings are accessible now or if the issue persists, proceed to repair or reinstall the Software Licensing Service via Control Panel > Programs and Features > Turn Windows features on or off
6. If problems continue, consider performing a System Restore to an earlier point when Windows Update was working correctly.
7. Contact Microsoft Support if issues persist after following these steps.
Where You Might Encounter Error Code 0x80040124 in Your System
Error 0x80040124 can occur in various scenarios involving the interaction between Windows Update and system components such as SLsvc or corrupt registry entries related to software licensing.
This error is particularly common when attempting to check for available updates through Settings > Update & Security, which may show an error message stating “Windows can’t connect to the update server” with code 0x80040124. Additionally, trying to access Windows Update manually from Control Panel might result in similar connection errors.
Another situation where this error might arise is during attempts to install or repair system files using tools like System File Checker (SFC) or Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM), which could fail if there are underlying issues affecting the integrity of Windows Update service components.
The issue can also occur when running specific commands or scripts that interact with licensing services, especially in environments where software deployment automation is involved. In such cases, troubleshooting might require deeper analysis using tools like Event Viewer to identify corrupted files or registry entries impacting SLsvc operations.
Finally, this error may appear during the process of uninstalling or updating applications that rely on Windows Update for their licensing verification, indicating potential conflicts between software license management and system update mechanisms.
Howto solve error code 0x80040124
1. Restart your computer in Safe Mode with Networking.
2. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and execute: sfc /scannow
3. After SFC scan, run DISM repair command: dism.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
4. Reboot your computer once more.
5. Attempt to access Windows Update settings or use Control Panel to manage Windows features for potential fixes.
6. If necessary, perform a System Restore to revert changes before the error appeared.
7. For unresolved issues, contact Microsoft Support for further assistance and troubleshooting options.
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