Solved: Overcoming the Challenge of Error Code 0x80070BC9 in Windows Updates

Error Code 0x80070BC9 Summary

The error code 0x80070BC9 is typically encountered when trying to connect or authenticate with a Microsoft Update service. This can occur during attempts to install Windows updates, repair an installation of Windows, or when other services rely on the Windows Update infrastructure for updates or configurations. It generally indicates that there’s an issue preventing the system from properly communicating with Microsoft servers to perform these tasks.

Description of Error 0x80070BC9 and Common Scenarios

This error can manifest in several scenarios and environments where interaction with Microsoft’s update services is required:

1. **Windows Update Issues**: When attempting to check for, download, or install updates through Windows Update.
2. **System Restore Problems**: During the creation of system restore points or when restoring a system snapshot if there’s an ongoing issue with connecting to necessary Microsoft servers for metadata and other data needed during restoration processes.
3. **Windows Setup or Installation Errors**: When trying to repair, reset, or completely reinstall Windows 10/11, particularly if the installation media (USB drive, DVD) is compromised or if there’s a network issue affecting communication with Microsoft’s servers.
4. **App Store and Other Microsoft Services Connectivity Issues**: Problems can arise in apps like the Xbox app, Skype, or any other software that relies on Microsoft services for updates or configuration, as these too depend on a clear connection to update sources hosted by Microsoft.

The error may also be related to issues with your internet service provider blocking access to certain ports used by Windows Update and other Microsoft services. Additionally, malware can interfere with the normal operation of these systems leading to this specific error code being thrown.

Howto solve error code 0x80070BC9

1. Verify that your device is connected to the internet properly. Check for any firewall or antivirus software interference that might be blocking connections to necessary ports (typically port 443) used by Microsoft services.

2. Run the Windows Network Diagnostics tool to automatically detect and correct common network issues preventing connection to Microsoft Update servers. To do this, open Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Internet Connections and select ‘Run the troubleshooter.’

3. Check your system date and time settings to ensure they are accurate as discrepancies can lead to errors when attempting to verify software updates.

4. Restart your device and connect directly to your home network’s modem or router without any intermediate devices like Wi-Fi extenders or smart switches in between.

5. If you’re experiencing issues with Windows Update, try resetting the update components by executing the following steps from an elevated command prompt:

  1. Stop the BITS service via ‘net stop bits.’
  2. Stop the WUauEngines service using ‘net stop wuauserv.’
  3. Delete or rename the SoftwareDistribution folder located at %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution.
  4. Delete or rename the Catroot2 folder found in C:\Windows\System32\catroot2.
  5. Restart both services with ‘net start bits’ and ‘net start wuauserv.’

6. As a last resort, consider performing a clean installation of Windows if none of the above solutions resolve the issue or if you suspect your system has been compromised by malware that is affecting these update processes. Make sure to back up all important data before proceeding with such an action.

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