Resolve Error 0x80246008: Troubleshoot and Fix

What is 0x80246008?

0x80246008 is an error code encountered in Windows operating systems, typically related to issues with the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS). This error signifies that there is a problem with downloading or updating files, often during Windows Update processes. It indicates that the system failed to connect to the necessary resources for downloading updates, which can hinder system performance and security.

Common Causes of 0x80246008

• BITS is not running or is misconfigured.
• Network connectivity issues preventing access to update servers.
• Corrupted Windows Update components.
• Firewall settings blocking necessary connections.
• Antivirus software interfering with the update process.

How to Diagnose 0x80246008

To determine the nature of the error, follow these steps:

• Check Network Connection: Ensure your device is connected to the internet.
• Review Windows Update History: Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Update & Security’ > ‘Windows Update’ > ‘View update history’ to see if any updates failed.
• Use Event Viewer: Press Windows + R, type eventvwr.msc, and hit Enter. Look under ‘Windows Logs’ > ‘Application’ and ‘System’ for error messages related to updates.
• Check BITS Status: Open the Services application by typing services.msc in the Run dialog (Windows + R). Look for ‘Background Intelligent Transfer Service’ and check if it’s running.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix 0x80246008

Method 1: Restart BITS

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Find ‘Background Intelligent Transfer Service’.
3. Right-click and select ‘Restart’.

Method 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

1. Open ‘Settings’ by searching for it in the start menu and go to ‘Update & Security’.
2. Click on ‘Troubleshoot’ and select ‘Windows Update’.
3. Run the troubleshooter and follow the prompts to fix identified issues.

Method 3: Reset Windows Update Components

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator: Right-click the Start button and select ‘Windows Terminal (Admin)’ or search for ‘cmd’ in the start menu, right click and select ‘Run as administrator’.
2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:

• net stop wuauserv
• net stop cryptSvc
• net stop bits
• net stop msiserver
• net start wuauserv
• net start cryptSvc
• net start bits
• net start msiserver

Method 4: Clear BITS Cache

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator (see method 3).
2. Type bitsadmin /reset and press Enter.
3. This command will reset the BITS service to its default state.

Method 5: Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings

1. Temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus software to see if they are blocking updates.
2. If updates work after disabling, reconfigure the settings to allow Windows Update processes.

Advanced Troubleshooting

For more complex issues involving 0x80246008, consider these options:

• Check for Network Issues: Use tools like ping or tracert in Command Prompt to diagnose connectivity problems.
• Update Network Drivers: Go to ‘Device Manager’ by right-clicking the Start button, selecting ‘Device Manager’, and expanding ‘Network adapters’. Right-click your adapter and choose ‘Update driver’.
• Registry Edits: If comfortable, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate in the Registry Editor. Ensure keys are correct. Warning: Editing the registry can cause serious issues if done improperly.

Preventing Future 0x80246008 Issues

To avoid encountering this error again:

• Regularly update Windows and drivers.
• Keep antivirus and firewall settings configured to allow Windows Update processes.
• Monitor your network connection for reliability.
• Periodically check system settings and update configurations to ensure they are correct.