What is 0x80096010?
The error code 0x80096010 signifies a certification validation error when using Windows operating systems. This occurs when the system is unable to verify the certificate of a file that’s being installed or run. It’s a signal that the system distrusts the file’s origin or integrity, which is critical for maintaining system security.
Common Causes of 0x80096010
- The digital signature of a downloaded file can’t be verified.
- Security certificates related to Windows Update are missing or expired.
- System files integral to the certificate validation process are corrupted.
- Incorrect system date and time, leading to certificate validation issues.
How to Diagnose 0x80096010
- Begin by checking system time and date settings for accuracy.
- Examine the update history to identify any update-related errors.
- Use Event Viewer by pressing Win + R, typing ‘eventvwr.msc’, and hitting Enter to investigate related error logs.
- Run a system scan to check for file corruption. To do this, type ‘cmd’ in the search bar, right-click on ‘Command Prompt’ and select ‘Run as administrator’, then type ‘sfc /scannow’ and press Enter.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix 0x80096010
Method 1: Update Date and Time Settings
- Press Win + I, select ‘Time & Language’, and ensure settings are correct.
- Enable ‘Set time automatically’ and ‘Set time zone automatically’.
Method 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
- Navigate to ‘Settings’ > ‘Update & Security’ > ‘Troubleshoot’.
- Select ‘Windows Update’, then run the troubleshooter.
Method 3: Manually Install the Certificates
- If a specific certificate is identified as untrusted, download the root certificate from a trusted source and install it manually.
Method 4: Clear the Windows Update Cache
- Type ‘services.msc’ in the search bar, find ‘Windows Update’ in the list, right-click, and select ‘Stop’.
- Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download and delete its contents.
- Go back to ‘services.msc’ and start the Windows Update service again.
Advanced Troubleshooting:
- Running DISM (Deployment Image Service and Management Tool) to repair Windows Update components. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type ‘DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth’.
- Check for driver updates, which can be done through the device manager. Access this by right-clicking ‘This PC’ on your desktop, selecting ‘Manage’, and then ‘Device Manager’.
- If confident, review the relevant security policies via ‘secpol.msc’ to ensure they are not misconfigured.
Professional help is recommended for:
- Deep system file corruption repair.
- Advanced security policy configuration.
Preventing Future 0x80096010 Issues
- Keep your system updated, including Windows and all drivers.
- Maintain accurate system time.
- Regularly validate system files’ integrity via the System File Checker tool.
- Ensure security certificates are up-to-date and trusted.
