How to fix ‘Windows Update error 0xe0000003’ issue

This article will show you How to fix ‘Windows Update error 0xe0000003’ issue. When you try to install a Windows Update, you’ll see the error code 0xe0000003. This problem gets in the way of the update process, which can lead to the installation failing. The error code could appear if the Windows update database cache is damaged, if you have a third-party antivirus or program running, if system files are damaged, or if your network isn’t working right.

The Windows Update install error 0xe0000003 is usually caused by Windows Update files that are damaged and stored in the software distribution folder. A software distribution is where Windows update files are kept until they are installed on Windows. You can fix the Windows update error 0xe0000003 by clearing the cache, running the troubleshooter, using System File Checker and DISM, and fixing the network. Also, you might need to change the DNS server address and do a clean boot or an in-place upgrade from time to time. We mentioned below are the ways how to fix ‘Windows Update error 0xe0000003’ issue.

What is the Windows Update error 0xe0000003 issue?

It is important to keep Windows up to date. This can keep your computer safe from threats, fix bugs, and make the system run better. People often get the error code 0xe0000003 when they try to download and install Windows updates. This error 0xe0000003 can stop Windows Update from working normally. You can take some time to figure out what went wrong before you try to fix it.

There have been complaints from some Windows users that they can’t finish installing the latest update on their device and instead get an error code 0xe0000003. As promised, the update is downloaded successfully, and you are told to restart your computer. But the update gets stuck during the restart, and when you force restart, it gets rolled back. If you want to know more information about this issue so you can visit Microsoft Official Website.

Causes of the Windows Update error 0xe0000003 issue

1. Network Issues: A disrupted or unstable internet connection can lead to update errors. If the update process is interrupted due to a network problem, it can result in error 0xe0000003.
2. Corrupted System Files: Corrupted or missing system files can prevent Windows from installing updates successfully. This corruption may occur due to various factors, such as sudden system crashes or malware infections.
3. Software Conflicts: Sometimes, third-party software or security programs can interfere with the Windows Update process, causing errors like 0xe0000003.
4. Insufficient Disk Space: If your system doesn’t have enough free disk space to accommodate the updates, it can trigger errors during the installation process.
5. Outdated Drivers: Outdated or incompatible device drivers can also lead to Windows Update errors. Drivers play a crucial role in hardware communication, and outdated ones can disrupt the update process.
6. Windows Update Service Issues: Problems with the Windows Update service itself, including corrupted update components or misconfigurations, can result in error 0xe0000003.

How to fix ‘Windows Update error 0xe0000003’ issue

Use Windows update troubleshooter

1. Windows will search for Troubleshoot. Type it in and press Enter.
2. Choose “Other troubleshooters” or “Additional troubleshooters.”
3. From the list, find Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
4. Wait until the scan is done. You will then be given a list of possible causes so that you can fix the problem.
5. If no suggestions were given, use the following solutions.

Enable services related to Windows update process

1. Click on Windows Search and type “Services.” Then press “Enter.”
2. Find Out More About Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS).
3. Right-click and choose “Restart” if it’s already running.
4. Double-click the service if it’s not already running, and then choose Automatic from the drop-down menu next to Startup type.
5. Press OK, then press Start.
6. Do the same thing again for Cryptographic services and Windows Update.

Run Clean Boot

1. To open the Run box, press the Windows key + R.
2. To open the System Configuration window, type msconfig and press Enter.
3. Check the box next to Hide all Microsoft Services when you go to the Services tab.
4. To turn off services that aren’t made by Microsoft, click “Disable all,” and then click the “Startup” tab.
5. Turn off everything that starts up when you open the Task Manager, then close it.
6. On the Boot tab, check the box next to Safe boot.
7. When you’re done, click OK in the System Configuration window and then restart your computer.
8. Try to update Windows once more.

Use Media Creation Tool

1. You can get Windows installation media (Windows 11 version) from the Microsoft website.
2. When UAC comes up, double-click the installer and choose “Yes.”
3. Accept the terms.
4. Choose “Upgrade this PC now” and then “Next.”
5. Windows is now downloading all the files it needs. This could take a while.
6. Once more, agree to the terms and click Next.
7. Make sure you’re happy with your choices before you install. If you’re not, you can click the “Change what to keep” button.
8. If you want to start the upgrade process, click Install.

Run SFC and DISM

1. For Windows to find cmd, type it in.
2. Find the Command Prompt and right-click on it. Then, choose Run as administrator.
3. Type this command and hit “Enter“:
   run sfc /scannow
4. This is what you should do when you’re done:
   dism /online /image-cleanup /scanhealth
5. You can check your health at dism.online/cleanup-image and get your health back at dism.online/cleanup-image.
6. For those who get stuck on the last command, add /Source:C:\RepairSource\Windows /LimitAccess and try again.
7. Start up your system again.

Use Network troubleshooter

1. Press and hold on Start, then click on Settings.
2. Check out the Network & Internet section.
3. Select “Advanced network settings” from the list on the right.
4. Wait after you click Network troubleshooter.
5. The fixes will be made automatically.

Conclusion

This post has ways to fix the Windows Update Error 0xe0000003. Windows Updates makes sure that your computer always has the most recent security patches, bug fixes, and feature additions. It usually happens when installing Windows updates that add up to new versions. Luckily, this error is easy to fix. Just follow these simple steps. Most of the time, errors with the Windows Update Service cause Error 0xe0000003 when installing cumulative Windows updates.

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