Resolve Error 0x80070490: Troubleshoot and Fix

What is 0x80070490?

0x80070490 is an error code that can occur in Windows, typically indicating a problem with a system component or service required to perform an update or operation. It often appears when Windows Update is unable to apply new updates or during the installation of specific applications.

For those less familiar with technical terms, imagine a key turning in a lock that won’t open because the internal mechanism is broken; similarly, Windows is facing a barrier it cannot bypass due to some corruption or misconfiguration within its core files or settings.

Common Causes of 0x80070490

This error can be triggered by:

• Corrupted system files that are essential for Windows Update to function.
• A malfunctioning Component-Based Servicing (CBS) manifest, which is critical for installing updates.
• Damaged or incomplete Windows update components.

How to Diagnose 0x80070490

To begin diagnosing this error:

• Check the Windows Update troubleshooter for any reported issues.
• Use the Event Viewer to look for error messages related to the update process: you can access it by typing ‘Event Viewer’ in the search box on the taskbar and selecting the app.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix 0x80070490

Method 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

• Navigate to ‘Settings’ > ‘Update & Security’ > ‘Troubleshoot’.
• Select ‘Windows Update’ and initiate the troubleshooter.

Method 2: Perform a System File Check

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator by typing ‘cmd’ in the search box, right-clicking on ‘Command Prompt’, and selecting ‘Run as administrator’.
• Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

Method 3: Use the DISM Tool

• Launch Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
• Enter DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and wait for the process to complete.

Method 4: Manually Reset Windows Update Components

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Stop the BITS, Cryptographic, MSI Installer, and the Windows Update Services by typing their respective stop commands.
• Delete the qmgr*.dat files by typing Del "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\qmgr*.dat".
• Restart the BITS, Cryptographic, MSI Installer, and the Windows Update Services by typing their respective start commands.

Advanced Troubleshooting

If the error remains unresolved:

• Resetting Windows might be necessary, which can be done under ‘Settings’ > ‘Update & Security’ > ‘Recovery’, but it’s crucial to back up data before proceeding.
• Repairing Windows via installation media, which involves booting from a Windows setup disk or USB and selecting ‘Repair your computer’.

For complex issues, professional assistance might be needed:

• If the above methods fail to correct the error.
• When there’s potential for significant data loss or other system risks.

Preventing Future 0x80070490 Issues

To help avert this error in the future:

• Maintain your system’s health by regularly running system scans and keeping all software updated.
• Utilize tools such as DISM and SFC periodically to catch early signs of corruption.
• Ensure that your antivirus software is up to date and scanning effectively to prevent malware that could corrupt system files.