How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80073712 on Windows 10?

Windows 10, although meticulously crafted, still grapples with imperfections. A prime example is the recurrent 0x80073712 error, causing concern for those striving to keep their system up-to-date. 

But what is the error code 0x80073712? It is a Windows Update issue indicating that some necessary update files are missing or corrupted. This can result in failed updates and potential system instability. In this guide, we’ll uncover the possible causes of the error, and explore how to fix it.

Possible Causes of the Error Code 0x80073712

Let’s take a look at the possible causes that may trigger the 0x80073712 error:

• Corrupt or missing Windows components: This error often occurs in connection with a Windows upgrade or update, signalling corrupt or missing Windows components.
• Faulty registry entries: Faulty entries in the Windows Registry might lead to error code 0x80073712. Registry issues can disrupt the update process, necessitating a thorough check and repair.
• Corrupted update files: The presence of corrupted files in the downloaded update packages can trigger this error.
• System file corruption: Damaged or corrupted system files may contribute to the error.
• Malware infections: Malware can interfere with the normal functioning of Windows Update, leading to errors.

Now, it’s time to explore the fixes to the Windows Update error 0x80073712.

How to Fix the 0x80073712 Error

Scan your PC for malware

To begin, let’s eliminate the possibility of malware causing persistent Windows Update errors, as it’s a rather common culprit. To do this, we recommend conducting a thorough system scan using either your third-party antivirus software or the integrated Windows Defender tool.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on utilizing Windows Defender in Windows 10:

• Go to Virus & threat protection (Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.)
• Click Scan options, opt for Full scan, and click Scan now.

Integrating such a tool can significantly fortify your system against hostile software threats.

Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Next, leverage the Windows Update Troubleshooter, a native Microsoft tool crafted to automatically identify and rectify update problems within your operating system.

To run this utility on Windows 10, follow these steps:

• Go to Additional troubleshooters (Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.)
• Click on the Windows Update troubleshooter and follow the on-screen prompts.
• After completing the troubleshooting process, restart your PC to allow the changes to take effect.
• Check if the Windows Update error 0x80073712 is gone now.

Run the DISM and SFC tools to repair your system files

If the solutions mentioned earlier prove ineffective, there may be damage or absence of essential Windows files. In such cases, the recommended course of action is to execute the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) solution followed by the System File Checker (SFC).

Perform these steps:

• Press Windows key + S to open Search.
• Type Command Prompt and choose to run it as administrator.
• Confirm if prompted or provide necessary administrator credentials.
• Type DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth and press Enter. The scan may take some time; be patient and avoid interrupting the process.
• Now, use the System File Checker tool by inputting sfc /scannow and pressing Enter. Wait for the scan to complete.
• Review the scan report and take appropriate action based on the provided message.

Rename the SoftwareDistribution folder

Another solution recommended for addressing the Windows Update error 0x80073712 includes clearing out the SoftwareDistribution folder, fixing issues with update files corrupted due to failed downloads, incomplete installations, or other factors that impact their integrity. 

Follow the steps below:

• Open an elevated Command Prompt. Refer to the previously explained method to identify how to do this.

• Input the following commands, pressing Enter after each (or simply copy and paste the whole list into the Command Prompt):

net stop wuauserv

net stop cryptSvc

net stop bits

net stop msiserver

rename c:\windows\SoftwareDistribution softwaredistribution.old

net start wuauserv

net start cryptSvc

net start bits

net start msiserver

• Restart your PC.
• Check if the error code 0x80073712 persists.

Restart the Windows Update service

If you’re still experiencing the error, fret not. Try restarting the Windows Update service by following these steps:

• Open the Run dialog by simultaneously pressing Windows key + R.
• In the Run dialog, type services.msc and press Enter.

• Locate the Windows Update service in the Services window.
• Check its status; if it’s not indicated, right-click on the service and select Start to forcefully initiate Windows Update.
• In case you encounter an error, find the Startup type option and set it to Automatic.
• Now, reboot your computer and check if the Windows Update is functioning correctly.

• Open an elevated Command Prompt.
• Input the following commands, hitting Enter after each:

net stop bits

net stop wuauserv

net stop appidsvc

net stop cryptsvc

Del “%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\qmgr*.dat”

cd /d %windir%\system32

regsvr32.exe atl.dll

regsvr32.exe urlmon.dll

regsvr32.exe mshtml.dll

regsvr32.exe shdocvw.dll

regsvr32.exe browseui.dll

regsvr32.exe jscript.dll

regsvr32.exe vbscript.dll

regsvr32.exe scrrun.dll

regsvr32.exe msxml.dll

regsvr32.exe msxml3.dll

regsvr32.exe msxml6.dll

regsvr32.exe actxprxy.dll

regsvr32.exe softpub.dll

regsvr32.exe wintrust.dll

regsvr32.exe dssenh.dll

regsvr32.exe rsaenh.dll

regsvr32.exe gpkcsp.dll

regsvr32.exe sccbase.dll

regsvr32.exe slbcsp.dll

regsvr32.exe cryptdlg.dll

regsvr32.exe oleaut32.dll

regsvr32.exe ole32.dll

regsvr32.exe shell32.dll

regsvr32.exe initpki.dll

regsvr32.exe wuapi.dll

regsvr32.exe wuaueng.dll

regsvr32.exe wuaueng1.dll

regsvr32.exe wucltui.dll

regsvr32.exe wups.dll

regsvr32.exe wups2.dll

regsvr32.exe wuweb.dll

regsvr32.exe qmgr.dll

regsvr32.exe qmgrprxy.dll

regsvr32.exe wucltux.dll

regsvr32.exe muweb.dll

regsvr32.exe wuwebv.dll

netsh winsock reset

netsh winhttp reset proxy

net start bits

net start wuauserv

net start appidsvc

net start cryptsvc

• Close the Command Prompt and restart your PC to check if the 0x80073712 error persists.

Fix registry issues

If you’re still grappling with the error code 0x80073712, it’s prudent to inspect the registry, as it could be corrupt or damaged, potentially necessitating modifications. However, manual intervention in the registry is strongly discouraged due to the inherent risks; a simple mistake can have severe consequences for your system.

PRO TIP

For a safer approach, we recommend leveraging a reliable tool – Auslogics Registry Cleaner, offered completely free of charge. This tool is designed to assist without compromising your system’s integrity. By using Auslogics Registry Cleaner, you can swiftly restore your registry to a healthy state, mitigating the risk of damage to your Windows system. 

Prioritizing the safety of your PC is paramount, and Auslogics Registry Cleaner ensures that your system is back on track without compromising its security.

Conclusion

That is all on how to fix the 0x80073712 error. Hopefully, with these comprehensive solutions you can bid farewell to your Windows Update problems.

Always prioritize your PC’s safety, and let us know if our tips have successfully resolved your issue in the comments section.