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Fix Error 0x80070426 in Microsoft Store and Windows Update

By metsPosted on Posted in Sport Gear

Fix Error 0x80070426 in Microsoft Store and Windows Update

Encountering error 0x80070426 can be frustrating when trying to update Windows or download apps from the Microsoft Store. This error typically indicates a problem with the Windows Update service or the Microsoft Store’s components not functioning correctly. Fixing this error ensures your system stays secure, up-to-date, and runs smoothly without interruptions. Before starting, ensure your PC is connected to the internet and you have administrator rights on your device, as most troubleshooting steps require administrative privileges.

What You’ll Need

  • Administrator access on your Windows PC
  • Stable internet connection
  • Basic familiarity with Windows Settings and Command Prompt
  • Optional: Windows Troubleshooter tools

Step-by-Step

  1. Restart Your Computer: Always begin with a simple restart. Sometimes, temporary glitches can cause this error, and a reboot can resolve them.
  2. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter:
    • Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I.
    • Navigate to Update & Security.
    • Click on Troubleshoot in the left menu.
    • Select Additional troubleshooters.
    • Click on Windows Update and then Run the troubleshooter.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any recommended fixes.
  3. Reset the Windows Update Components:
    • Open Command Prompt as Administrator: type “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
    • Stop the Windows Update services by executing:
      • net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
    • Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders to reset update cache:
      • ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
    • Restart the services with: 
      net start wuauserv
net start bits
  4. Re-register the Microsoft Store:
    • Open PowerShell as Administrator: right-click the Start button, select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
    • Type the following command and press Enter: 
      Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}
  5. Check for Windows Updates Manually:
    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
    • Click Check for updates.
    • If updates are found, install them and restart your PC.
  6. Reinstall the Microsoft Store:
    • Open PowerShell as Administrator.
    • Enter the command: 
      Get-AppxPackage *WindowsStore* | Remove-AppxPackage
    • Then reinstall with: 
      Add-AppxPackage -register "C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\Microsoft.WindowsStore_8wekyb3d8bbwe\AppxManifest.xml"
  7. Perform a System File Check:
    • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
    • Run the command: 
      sfc /scannow

      > This scans and repairs corrupted system files that might be causing the error.

  8. Restart Your PC to apply all changes and check if the error persists.

Common Mistakes

  • Skipping the restart after making system changes, which can prevent fixes from taking effect.
  • Running commands without administrator privileges, leading to permission errors.
  • Renaming or deleting system folders without caution, risking system instability.
  • Ignoring Windows Update Troubleshooter recommendations without applying suggested fixes.
  • Not updating Windows fully before troubleshooting, which can leave unresolved issues.

Tips

  • Always back up your important data before performing advanced troubleshooting steps.
  • Keep your Windows system up-to-date to prevent errors from occurring.
  • Run the System File Checker regularly to maintain system integrity.
  • Use the Microsoft Store app troubleshooter for specific store-related issues.
  • If problems persist, consider creating a new user profile to see if the issue is profile-specific.

Troubleshooting

If the above steps do not resolve error 0x80070426, consider the following additional troubleshooting methods:

  • Check for Malware: Run a full system scan with Windows Defender or your preferred antivirus to ensure no malicious software is interfering with system services.
  • Perform a Clean Boot: Disable all third-party services temporarily to identify if a background application is causing the conflict. To do this:
    • Press Windows key + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
    • Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
    • Switch to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
    • Disable all startup items, then restart your PC.
  • Reset Windows Update via Settings: In Settings, go to Update & Security, then Recovery, and select Reset this PC if other solutions fail. This should be a last resort.
  • Check System Event Logs: Use Event Viewer to identify specific errors related to Windows Update or Store services, which can provide clues for targeted fixes.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: If none of the above solutions work, reaching out to Microsoft support can help, especially if the error is due to deeper system issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What causes error 0x80070426 in Windows?

This error usually occurs due to issues with the Windows Update service, corrupted system files, or problems with the Microsoft Store components.

2. Can I fix error 0x80070426 without reinstalling Windows?

Yes, most common causes can be fixed by troubleshooting update services, resetting components, or re-registering store apps without a full OS reinstall.

3. Is it safe to reset the Windows Update components manually?

Yes, but ensure you follow instructions carefully. Resetting update components can resolve many update errors but should be done with caution.

4. How long does it typically take to fix this error?

The time varies depending on the complexity of the issue, but most fixes can be completed within 30 minutes to an hour.

5. Will fixing this error delete my files?

No, troubleshooting steps like resetting services or re-registering apps do not delete personal files. However, performing a system reset or reinstall can.

6. What should I do if the error persists after troubleshooting?

If the error continues, consider performing a repair install of Windows or contacting professional support for advanced diagnostics.

By following these detailed steps, you should be able to resolve error 0x80070426 affecting your Windows Update and Microsoft Store, ensuring your system remains secure and functional. Remember, patience and careful execution are key to successful troubleshooting.

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Fix Error 0x80070426 in Microsoft Store and Windows Update
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