What is 0x80246007?
Error Code 0x80246007 is a notification in Windows systems, alerting users to an error encountered during operations like updating Windows or downloading new features or apps from the Windows Store. This error typically means that a file needed by Windows Update or the Windows Store is damaged or missing, hindering the update or download process. For beginners, think of it as a librarian unable to find a book because it’s not where the system says it should be.
Common Causes of 0x80246007
This error may arise from various sources, including:
- Interruptions during download or installation, leading to incomplete files.
- Corruption within the Windows Update components.
- Disruptions in the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), which manages background downloads.
- Faulty or incomplete update service configurations.
How to Diagnose 0x80246007
Begin by:
- Checking your internet connection to rule out connectivity issues.
- Using the built-in Windows Update troubleshooter to scan for problems.
- Viewing the system’s event logs to trace the error’s origins.
- Confirming the status of BITS and Windows Update services in the Services applet.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix 0x80246007
Method 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
- Navigate to ‘Settings’ > ‘Update & Security’ > ‘Troubleshoot’.
- Select ‘Windows Update’ and run the troubleshooter.
- Apply any recommended fixes.
Method 2: Restart BITS and Windows Update Services
- Press Windows key + R, type ‘services.msc’, and press Enter to open Services.
- Locate ‘Background Intelligent Transfer Service’, right-click it, and select ‘Stop’.
- Find ‘Windows Update’ service, right-click, and select ‘Stop’.
- After stopping both, restart them by right-clicking and selecting ‘Start’.
Method 3: Clear the Windows Update Cache
- Stop the Windows Update service as described in Method 2.
- Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download and delete its contents.
- Restart the Windows Update service.
Method 4: Use System File Checker (SFC)
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator by typing ‘cmd’ in the Start menu, right-clicking on Command Prompt, and choosing ‘Run as administrator’.
- Enter ‘sfc /scannow’ and wait for the process to finish.
- Reboot your machine upon completion.
Advanced Troubleshooting
If these methods don’t resolve the issue, proceed with caution:
- Try the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool to repair Windows images.
- Update your device drivers through the Device Manager.
- For advanced users, check the registry for incorrect entries, but beware: incorrect registry editing can cause serious issues.
Preventing Future 0x80246007 Issues
To keep this error at bay:
- Regularly conduct Windows Updates to ensure system integrity.
- Use a reliable antivirus tool to prevent malware that could corrupt system files.
- Perform consistent backups, particularly before making significant changes to your system.
