6 Approved Ways to Fix Windows 11 Update Error 0x800f081f

Updating your Windows 11 operating system is essential for improving its performance, fixing security vulnerabilities, and accessing new features. However, sometimes the update process can encounter errors, such as the 0x800f081f error code, which can be frustrating.

This error occurs when the system fails to install an update due to missing or damaged files. Fortunately, several approved ways exist to fix this error and ensure that your system stays up to date.

In this article, we’ll explore six effective methods to resolve the Windows 11 update error 0x800f081f and get your system running smoothly again.

What causes Windows Update 0x800f081f?

Several factors cause this problem, some of these factors include:

Missing or corrupted system files: If the update files or system files required for the update are missing or corrupted, the update process may fail.
Third-party antivirus software: Antivirus programs may interfere with the update process and prevent the system from installing updates.
Outdated or incompatible drivers: If your system has outdated or incompatible drivers, they may prevent the update from installing correctly.
Limited storage space: If your system doesn’t have enough storage space to accommodate the update, the installation may fail.
Internet connection issues: If your internet connection is unstable or slow, the update may fail to download or install correctly.
Corrupted Windows Registry: The Windows Registry contains essential configuration settings for the system, and if it becomes corrupted, it can cause the update process to fail.

How do I fix error code 0x800f081f on a Windows 11 PC?

1. Repair Windows system files

1.1 Use a system scan

Click the magnifying glass icon to open the search bar, type command in the text box, select Command Prompt, and click Run as administrator.
Type the command below and click Enter.
sfc /scanow
After this step, your device will begin scanning and fixing this problem.
Restart your device once the scan is complete.

1.2 Use chkdsk command

Click the magnifying glass icon to open the search bar, type command in the text box, select Command Prompt, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following commands below and click Enter after each command.
chkdsk C: /f /r /x
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
After the scan, restart your system and check if this problem has been resolved.

2. Run the Windows update troubleshooter

Click the magnifying glass icon to open the search bar; type troubleshoot other problems in the text box, then click Open.
Select the Run button next to Windows Update.
The troubleshooter will start running and check for errors.
Apply the recommended fixes.
Reboot your device and check if the problem persists.

3. Modify your group policy

Hold the Windows + R keys to launch the Run dialogue.
Input gpedit.msc into the dialogue box and hit Enter.
Click on Computer Configuration to expand it, next expand Administrative Templates then click System.
On the right side, double-click the Specify settings for optional component installation and component repair option.
Check Enabled and press OK.
Now check if the problem has been fixed.

4. Clear Windows update cache and components

Click the magnifying glass icon to open the search bar, type command in the text box, select Command Prompt, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following commands below into your command prompt and hit Enter after each command.
Net Stop bits
Net Stop wuauserv
Net Stop appidsvc
Net Stop cryptsvc
Ren %systemroot%SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.bak
Ren %systemroot%system32catroot2 catroot2.bak
Net Start bits
Net Start wuauserv
Net Start appidsvc
Net Start cryptsvc
Exit the command prompt and reboot your PC.
Check to see if this problem has been resolved.

5. Download Windows 11 update manually

Go to the official Microsoft Update Catalogue website
In the search bar on the right, type the KB (Knowledge Base) of the Windows update you want to download and click the Search button.
A list containing available update packages will be displayed. Click on the Update title to get more information.
Go through all the details to find an update that suits your needs.
Identify the right update and click the Download button.
Right-click on the download link and select the Save link as option.
Select your download directory and hit Save.
Locate the folder where the Windows 11 package has been downloaded, double click on it to run.
After some seconds, click the Yes button in the Windows Update Standalone Installer pop-up to commence the update installation.
Restart your system and check if the problem has been fixed.

6. Take away WUServer and WIStatusServer from the registry

Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run dialogue box.
Input the command below and press Enter.
regedit
In the permission pop-up click Yes.
Navigate to the address below.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdateOn
On the right-hand side, locate WUServer and WIStatusServer and delete both.

Why do my Windows updates keep failing?

There can be several reasons why Windows updates keep failing. Here are some common ones:

Internet connection: A slow or intermittent internet connection can cause updates to fail or take longer to download and install.
Insufficient disk space: Windows updates require enough free space on your hard drive to install. If your computer does not have enough space, the update may fail.
Third-party software: Some third-party software, such as antivirus or security software, can interfere with Windows updates.
Corrupted system files: Corrupted system files can prevent Windows updates from installing properly.
Compatibility issues: In some cases, Windows updates may not be compatible with certain hardware or software configurations on your computer, leading to this problem.
Incorrect date and time: Incorrect date and time settings can cause issues with the update process.
Pending updates: If there are pending updates, they may need to be installed before new updates can be installed. Check for any pending updates in the Windows Update settings.
Windows Update service: If the Windows Update service is not running, Windows update might fail.

By following the instructions in this article, you can successfully fix the 0x800f081f DISM Windows 11 problem.

The steps in this article have not been listed in any particular order, so ensure to try as many solutions as possible until you find one that works for you.