How to Fix Windows Error 0x80070002

Windows error 0x80070002 usually appears when Windows can’t find files it needs during an update, app install, or system task. In many cases, the problem is caused by corrupted update cache files, missing temporary files, incorrect date and time settings, or damaged system files. It’s especially common with Windows Update when old download data gets stuck and prevents new updates from installing correctly.

What Causes This?

Error 0x80070002 typically means Windows is looking for a file or folder that is missing or unreadable. The most common causes are broken Windows Update components, corrupted temporary update files, bad system files, or a mismatch in your PC’s date and time settings. It can also happen if background services like Windows Update or Background Intelligent Transfer Service aren’t running properly.

Common Symptoms

• Windows Update fails and shows error 0x80070002
• Updates download but won’t install
• Microsoft Store apps fail to update or install
• You see repeated update errors after restarting your PC
• Temporary files and update cache keep building up

How to Fix It Manually

1. Restart your PC

   • Click Start > Power > Restart.
   • After rebooting, try Windows Update again: go to Settings > Windows Update and click Check for updates.

2. Check your date and time settings

   • Press Windows + I to open Settings.
   • Go to Time & language > Date & time.
   • Turn on Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically.
   • Restart your PC and try the update again.

3. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

   • Open Settings with Windows + I.
   • In Windows 11, go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
   • In Windows 10, go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
   • Find Windows Update and click Run.
   • Let Windows apply any fixes, then restart your PC.

4. Clear the Windows Update cache

   • Press Windows + S, type cmd.
   • Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
   • Enter these commands one at a time:

     net stop wuauserv
     net stop bits
     net stop cryptsvc
     ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
     ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
     net start wuauserv
     net start bits
     net start cryptsvc

   • Restart your PC, then check for updates again.

5. Repair damaged system files

   • Open Command Prompt as administrator again.
   • Run this command:

     sfc /scannow

   • Wait for the scan to finish.
   • Then run:

     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

   • Restart your PC after both scans complete.

6. Delete temporary files

   • Press Windows + I and go to System > Storage > Temporary files.
   • Check items like Temporary files, Windows Update Cleanup, and other safe-to-remove clutter.
   • Click Remove files.
   • This can free space and remove broken leftover update files that may be triggering the error.

Fix It Automatically with Kudu

If you don’t want to reset update components and hunt down temporary files yourself, Kudu can do the cleanup automatically. It helps remove update leftovers, temporary files, and system clutter that often contribute to 0x80070002, making Windows Update more likely to work normally again.

Download Kudu Free →