How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x8007000D
Quick Fix Summary
TL;DRRun the Windows Update Troubleshooter, then execute 'sfc /scannow' and 'DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth' in an elevated Command Prompt.
Error 0x8007000D indicates Windows Update encountered a data error, typically due to corrupted system files or a damaged Windows Update component store. This prevents critical security and feature updates from installing, leaving systems vulnerable.
Diagnosis & Causes
Recovery Steps
Step 1: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
Use the built-in automated tool to diagnose and fix common Windows Update problems.
ms-settings:troubleshoot
Navigate to 'Additional troubleshooters' > 'Windows Update' > 'Run the troubleshooter'Step 2: Repair System Files with SFC and DISM
Use System File Checker (SFC) to repair protected system files, then use Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) to fix the underlying Windows image. Run these commands sequentially in an Administrator Command Prompt.
sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthStep 3: Reset Windows Update Components Manually
If automated tools fail, manually stop Windows Update services, clear the update cache, and restart the components. This is a definitive reset.
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserverStep 4: Perform a Clean Boot and Retry Update
Eliminate software conflicts by performing a clean boot, then attempt the update again. This isolates the issue to Windows or third-party services.
msconfig
Under 'Services' tab, check 'Hide all Microsoft services' > 'Disable all'
Under 'Startup' tab, click 'Open Task Manager' > disable all startup items
Reboot and attempt Windows UpdateStep 5: Use the Windows Update Assistant (Media Creation Tool)
As a last resort before an in-place upgrade, use the official Microsoft Update Assistant or Media Creation Tool to force the update process from outside the corrupted environment.
Download 'Windows Update Assistant' or 'Media Creation Tool' from Microsoft.com
Run the tool and select 'Upgrade this PC now'Architect's Pro Tip
"After running DISM /RestoreHealth, always run SFC /scannow again. DISM repairs the source image, but SFC applies those repairs to the running OS. The order matters for a complete fix."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is error 0x8007000D dangerous? Will I lose data?
The error itself is not dangerous and does not cause data loss. However, it leaves your system unpatched against security vulnerabilities. The repair steps are non-destructive to user data.
What if SFC and DISM commands fail or find corruption they cannot repair?
If DISM fails with source errors, you may need to specify an alternate source using the /Source option with a Windows ISO. As a final step, an in-place repair upgrade (keeping files and apps) is the most reliable fix.
How can I prevent this error in the future?
Ensure stable power (use a UPS), disable aggressive antivirus scans during updates, maintain sufficient free disk space (>20GB), and avoid interrupting update installations once they begin.