Forum Discussion
How to fix windows 11 update error 0x800f0991?
Hi everyone,
I'm not very good with computer troubleshooting, so I'm feeling a bit stuck. For the past few days, my Windows 11 laptop has been failing to install the latest update. Every time it tries, I get an error code: 0x800f0991.
I've tried clicking "Retry" a bunch of times, but it always ends up with the same error message 0x800f0991. I'm worried that if I don't get this update, my computer might have security problems or start acting buggy. Could anyone please walk me through some simple steps to fix windows 11 update error 0x800f0991?
Thank you so much for help
5 Replies
- SDGmanisonIron Contributor
Run the Windows 11 troubleshooter. If it does not work, then reinstall the latest windows 11 version.
- LawrencecemIron Contributor
Using a script to remove pending updates and clear the update cache can be an effective and unobtrusive way to fix the Windows 11 update error 0x800f0991. Here's a simple batch script you can run as an administrator.
How to use this script:
- Open Notepad and paste the above code.
- Save it with a .bat extension, e.g., ClearUpdateCache.bat.
- Right-click the saved file and choose Run as administrator.
What this script does:
- Stops the Windows Update and Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS).
- Deletes all files in the SoftwareDistribution\Download and DataStore folders, which store temporary update files.
- Restarts the services to allow updates to proceed afresh. Maybe you can fix the Windows 11 update error 0x800f0991.
- DavidGarciaIron Contributor
There are some methods you can try to fix the Windows 11 update error 0x800f0991 that are less commonly known. Here are a few options:
1. Use the Windows Update Log and DISM Logs for Advanced Diagnostics
- Navigate to the Windows Update log by running the command Get-WindowsUpdateLog in PowerShell.
- Analyze the log files for specific clues about the error.
- Similarly, check the DISM log located at C:\Windows\Logs\DISM\dism.log for detailed errors that can guide targeted fixes.
2. Manually Repair System Image Using DISM with a Source
- Sometimes, the error occurs due to corrupted system files or missing updates. You can manually repair the system image by pointing DISM to a known good source, such as a Windows ISO.
- Download a Windows 11 ISO matching your current version, mount it, and run: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:X:\Sources\install.wim /LimitAccess
- Replace X: with the mounted ISO drive letter.
3. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter in a Command Line Mode
- Run the troubleshooter from an elevated Command Prompt with: msdt.exe /id WindowsUpdateDiagnostic
- This can sometimes fix the Windows 11 update error 0x800f0991 that the GUI troubleshooter misses.
4. Reset Windows Store and Related Components
- Since some updates depend on the Windows Store, resetting it might help: wsreset.exe
- Also, re-register Windows Store apps: powershell -ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted -Command & {Get-AppXPackage *WindowsStore* -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}}
- EnzoipIron Contributor
The Windows 11 update error 0x800f0991 typically indicates a problem related to Windows Update, often involving issues with the update components, system files, or network connectivity. It can also be related to problems with the Windows Update service not being able to download or install the necessary files properly.
Common causes of Windows 11 update error 0x800f0991:
- Corrupted Windows Update components
- Problems with the Windows Update cache
- Insufficient disk space
- Network connectivity issues
- Problems with the Windows Update server
- Corrupted system files
- Issues with specific update files or dependencies
How to troubleshoot and fix Windows 11 update error 0x800f0991:
1. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter:
Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Select Windows Update and click Run.
Follow the prompts to detect and fix issues.
2. Clear the Windows Update cache:
Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Run these commands one by one: net stop wuauserv net stop bits
Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download and delete all files inside.
Restart the services:
3. Run System File Checker and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM):
Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Run: sfc /scannow
Then: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
After completion, restart your PC and try updating.
4. Check for sufficient disk space:
Ensure you have enough free space on your system drive (usually C:).
5. Manually download and install the update:
Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.
Search for the specific update KB number.
Download and install it manually.
6. Reset Windows Update components:
Use a script or manually reset the update components.
7. Check your network connection:
Ensure a stable internet connection.
Disable VPNs or firewalls temporarily to rule out interference. - LennoxGrovehillIron Contributor
The Windows 11 update error 0x800f0991 usually indicates an issue with corrupted system files, problems with the Windows Update components, or interference from third-party software.
A simple fix for Windows 11 update error 0x800f0991
Disconnect Peripherals: Unplug all unnecessary external devices (printers, external drives, non-essential USB devices) except your mouse and keyboard.
Disable Antivirus/VPN: Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus or VPN software, as they can sometimes interfere with the update process. Re-enable them after the update is complete.
Run Windows Update Troubleshooter:
- Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot.
- Click Other troubleshooters.
- Find Windows Update and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen prompts and apply any suggested fixes.