Fix: ‘Windows Update Error code 0x80242016’ issue

Do you want to know how to Fix ‘Windows Update Error code 0x80242016′ issue? Most of the time, after installing the operating system, users don’t tamper with the default Windows settings. This implies that everyone should automatically receive routine OS updates that Microsoft ships on a regular basis. When this process fails with the error code 0x80242016, Windows cannot be updated to the most recent version. The problem is also present when the update process is started manually. Windows is a complex operating system that functions properly thanks to thousands of processes, files, settings, scheduled tasks, registry entries, and other elements.

Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case because all of these elements and how they interact sometimes can lead to usability and functionality problems. The majority of users encounter this error when attempting to install updates, but some also experience it after upgrading to Windows 11/10 or performing a fresh installation of the operating system. In this situation, users must manually download and install the KB4498524 or KB4515384 update. We explain how to Fix ‘Windows Update Error code 0x80242016’ issue.

What is Windows Update error code 0x80242016?

The update state following the conclusion of the post-reboot operation is unexpected, according to Windows Update error code 0x80242016. The error logs might contain a WU_E_UH_POSTREBOOTUNEXPECTEDSTATE message. Users may miss crucial updates, such as bug fixes and other improvements, if they encounter this error code.

In any case, keeping your system updated is essential if you want to get new features and avoid potential security threats. It is crucial to remove this error code in order to successfully install new Windows updates. This post is for you if you are having the same error code and are unable to resolve it. In that guide, we’ll go over a few effective solutions to the 0x80242016 Windows Update error.

What causes Windows Update error code 0x80242016?

1. Internet connectivity issues: If your computer is having trouble connecting to the Windows Update servers, it won’t be able to download the necessary updates, leading to error 0x80242016.
2. Corrupted Windows Update components: Sometimes, the files or settings related to Windows Update can become corrupted, preventing the service from functioning properly.
3. Software conflicts: Certain third-party software or security programs can interfere with the Windows Update process, causing errors like 0x80242016.
4. Insufficient disk space: If your system drive is running low on free space, Windows Update might fail to download and install updates.
5. Incorrect system settings: Misconfigured settings on your computer, such as incorrect date and time settings or proxy configurations, can cause update errors.

Fix: ‘Windows Update Error code 0x80242016’ issue

Rename the Software Distribution Folder.

The files necessary for installing the update files are temporarily stored in the Software Distribution folder. You might be able to resolve the update error you are currently experiencing by renaming it. Follow these steps to rename the Software Distribution folder:

1. Navigate to the Start menu.
2. Type CMD into the Windows search box.
3. From the search results, select Command Prompt and then click the Run as Administrator option.
4. Type the command net stop wuauserv into the command line.
5. Press Enter.
6. Put the ren c:/windows/SoftwareDistributions softwaredistribution.old command after that.
7. Press Enter.
8. Net start wuauserve input.
9. Lastly, press Enter.
10. Command Prompt is closed.
11. Restart the computer.

Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

A strong built-in tool that can identify and fix some problems with the Windows Update procedure is the Windows Update Troubleshooter. Consequently, using this effective tool may be the answer you’re looking for if you’re still getting error 0x80242016 with regard to your Windows update. Follow these instructions to use this tool:

1. The Settings window will appear when you press Win + I on your keyboard. See our instructions on how to access the Settings window for more details.
2. System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters should be selected.
3. Click the Run button next to Windows Update.
4. Check to see if the error is fixed once the troubleshooting process is finished.

Use the Computer Management Utility

1. To open the Power User menu, press Windows + X.
2. Opt for Computer Management.
3. Click Services and Applications in the Computer Management Utility window’s left-hand column.
4. Choose Services.
5. To use the Find service, double-click on it.
6. Double-click Windows Search after that.
7. Select This will disable the service under Startup Type.
8. To save the changes, click Apply.
9. Hit OK.
10. Restart the computer.

Delete the Software Distribution Directory

1. Switch to Safe Mode in Windows.
2. Run File Explorer while in Safe Mode.
3. The Windows folder, please.
4. The SoftwareDistribution folder must be deleted.
5. Restart the computer.
6. The update should be reinstalled.

Clear the Software Distribution Folder

The Software Distribution Folder must be cleaned out in order to install updates and prevent problems with error messages. While Windows updates are being installed, temporary files are stored in this folder. If this folder becomes corrupted, you may not be able to install the updates. Therefore, clearing out this crucial folder will aid in fixing any installation issues and enable your system to function normally once more. This is how you do it:

1. Launch the Run command window.
2. To open the Command Prompt, enter cmd and press Enter.
3. Enter each command after you type it in the command line as follows:
   • net stop wuauserv
   • net stop bits
   • net stop cryptSvc
   • net stop msiserver
4. By running the aforementioned command, you can stop Windows Update, BITS, Cryptographic, MSI Installer, and other services.
5. Now launch File Explorer and go to the following path:
   • C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
6. Select all of the files in the SoftwareDistribution folder (Ctrl + A) and hit Delete.
7. Run the following command after reopening the Command Prompt window:
   • net start wuauserv
   • net start bits
   • net start cryptSvc
   • net start msiserver
8. Once you’ve finished, restart your computer and check Windows Update to see if the error code has been fixed.

Pause Windows Updates

1. Access Settings.
2. Select Security and Update.
3. Get to the Windows Update section by navigating.
4. Then select Advanced Options.
5. The switch next to the “Pause Updates” section should be turned on.
6. Switch off your computer.
7. Follow steps 1 through 5 after Windows has fully booted up. However, turn off Pause Updates this time.
8. Install the update again.

Conclusion

Here is a tutorial for fixing the 0x80242016 Windows Update error. Windows Update errors are nothing new; users frequently experience one update error or another. One such error is the 0x80242016 error code, which appears when you manually or automatically install some feature or quality updates. In case if you have any query regards this article you may ask us. Also, please share your love by sharing this article with your friends. If you want to know more information about this issue so you can visit Microsoft Official Website.

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