Error while updating virus and threat protection Definition updates on Windows Server 2016

Hi MukeshsKumar,

When you encounter error code 80072ee2 while updating Microsoft Virus and threat protection definition updates on Windows Server 2016, it's typically associated with network or connectivity problems.

Here are steps to try to resolve this issue:

1. Verify Your Internet Connection: Ensure that your server has a reliable internet connection as network issues are a common cause of this error.

2. Utilize the Windows Update Troubleshooter: Make use of the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter to automatically identify and fix common update-related problems. To run the troubleshooter, follow these steps:

   • Press Windows + S, search for "Troubleshoot," and select "Troubleshoot settings."
   • Under "Get up and running," select "Windows Update," and then run the troubleshooter.

3. Review Proxy Settings: If you are using a proxy server, ensure that your proxy settings are correctly configured. Here's how:

   • Open Windows Settings (press Windows + I).
   • Navigate to "Network & Internet."
   • Select "Proxy" on the left sidebar and confirm that your proxy settings are accurate.

4. Inspect Windows Firewall Settings: Check your Windows Firewall settings to ensure that they are not blocking the updates. Ensure that Windows Defender can access the internet. You can temporarily disable the firewall to check if it's the source of the issue, but remember to re-enable it afterward.

5. Check Date and Time Settings: Incorrect date and time settings can occasionally cause update problems. Confirm that your server's date and time settings are correctly configured.

6. Verify DNS Configuration: Ensure that your DNS server settings are accurate. Your server should be able to resolve domain names to IP addresses. Incorrect DNS settings can lead to update failures.

7. Address Software Conflicts: Certain third-party software can interfere with Windows updates. Temporarily disable or uninstall any third-party security software and attempt to update Windows Defender.

8. Ensure System Updates: Confirm that your server has all the latest Windows updates installed. Outdated Windows system components can sometimes disrupt Windows Defender updates.

9. Evaluate Group Policy Settings: If your server is part of a domain, examine group policy settings that may impose restrictions on Windows Defender updates. Your system administrator can assist with this.

10. Reset Windows Update Components: At times, resetting Windows Update components can resolve update-related issues. Follow these steps:

    • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
    • Execute the following commands one by one:
       

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 msiserver

• After executing these commands, attempt the update again.