Fix Windows Update error 0x80070005

Error 0x80070005 means Windows Update could not write a file or registry key. The usual cause is a damaged update cache or corrupted system files.

1. Run the troubleshooter

   Open Settings › System › Troubleshoot › Other troubleshooters and run Windows Update. Then restart the PC.

2. Repair system files

   Open Terminal as administrator (Win + X › Terminal (Admin)) and run:

   sfc /scannow

   cmdCopy

1. Repair the Windows image with DISM

   If SFC reports files it could not repair:

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

   cmdCopy

   Allow 10 to 20 minutes. Keep the window open.

2. Clear the Windows Update cache

   In the same admin Terminal:

   net stop wuauserv
   net stop bits
   ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
   net start bits
   net start wuauserv

   cmdCopy

   Then check for updates again.

Good to know : If the error persists, check that a third-party antivirus isn't blocking Windows Update by disabling it temporarily.