Fixing the Issue with Error Code 0x8004204E: Problem Solved!

Error Code 0x8004204E Summary

The error code 0x8004204E is typically associated with issues related to the Windows Update service on Microsoft Windows operating systems. This error can occur when attempting to install updates through the Windows Update process or via Group Policy if Automatic Updates are managed by a system administrator for corporate networks. The specific error indicates an issue retrieving information from a server, likely due to network connectivity problems, incorrect server settings, or issues with the Windows Update service itself.

Description and Common Scenarios for Error Code 0x8004204E

This error can occur in several scenarios:
– When attempting to install updates through Windows Update.
– During the automatic update process managed by Group Policy for corporate environments.
– If there are network configuration issues preventing proper communication between your device and Microsoft’s servers, such as DNS resolution problems or firewall settings blocking necessary ports.
– Problems with the Windows Update service itself, including corruption of its files or incorrect permissions assigned to them.
– Issues related to compatibility, like trying to install updates on a version of Windows that is no longer supported by Microsoft.

Howto solve error code 0x8004204E

To resolve this issue, follow these steps:

1. Restart your computer and try running the Update troubleshooter from Control Panel or Settings.
2. If step 1 does not work, attempt to repair system files using System File Checker. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run “sfc /scannow”.
3. Check for Windows updates manually again after any repairs are made.
4. Reset the Windows Update components via command prompt: start by opening a new elevated Command Prompt window, then enter each of the following commands in order (with no spaces between “net” and “stop”), pressing Enter after each one:
   1. net stop wuauserv
   2. net stop cryptsvc
   3. net stop bits
   4. net stop msiserver

   After this, navigate to the folder C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution and rename it as SoftwareDistribution.old. Then proceed to reset the services:

   • Run “net start wuauserv”
   • Run “net start cryptsvc”
   • Run “net start bits”
   • Run “net start msiserver”

   Finally, check for updates again.

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